Monday, December 20, 2010
December 20, 2010
Today's Journal newspaper gives some good information on tonight's lunar eclipse. Apparently, the last time a lunar eclipse coincided with the winter solstice was in 1638 and the next time is going to be in 2401. This eclipse really is a once-in-a-lifetime (actually, in several lifetimes...) event!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
December 19, 2010
I thought I'd make a quick posting, just in case anyone is checking in.
First, let me congratulate everyone for their wonderful performance at the Christmas concert. The class did a spectacular job - and not just by my estimation: LOTS of people have remarked on what a super job the class did. Well done, everyone!
Secondly, even though no reading was sent home for the holidays, I hope all the students continue to read, and that care-givers read to and with them. The class has learned so much - it would be nice to keep that literary ball rolling over the break. Remember that there are lots of good books on the Tumblereaders link, and that our lovely public library will be open over the holiday.
Next, I'm sure many people already know that on this year's winter solstice (December 21), there will be a total lunar eclipse, but I thought I'd post a reminder, anyway. I'm not sure what time the eclipse is scheduled, but some of you might find a late bedtime worth the investment. Hopefully the skies will be clear for good views. (Maybe watching for the eclipse could be tied in with a "practise watch" for Santa's sleigh .... )
Finally, I wanted to wish everyone a very happy ho-ho-holiday! Remember to set out the Genuine Reindeer Food on Christmas Eve!
See you all next year!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
December 16, 2010
Remember that there is no spelling test this week! Yeehaw!
We're ready for the concert tonight; the class had a SUPER practise today! Please make sure that your child is here by 6:30. They should wear their "Christmas finery" - girls with a skirt or dress or nice slacks and blouse if possible, and boys with nice pants or jeans and their best shirt. (Ties would be a nice addition, too, gentlemen!) The concert will begin at 7:00 and should be over before 8 o'clock. There will be a silver collection at the door and anyone who would like to bring a Food Bank contribution is welcome to do so - with our thanks!
We're ready for the concert tonight; the class had a SUPER practise today! Please make sure that your child is here by 6:30. They should wear their "Christmas finery" - girls with a skirt or dress or nice slacks and blouse if possible, and boys with nice pants or jeans and their best shirt. (Ties would be a nice addition, too, gentlemen!) The concert will begin at 7:00 and should be over before 8 o'clock. There will be a silver collection at the door and anyone who would like to bring a Food Bank contribution is welcome to do so - with our thanks!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
December 15, 2010
The students are bringing home a book of their choice for the Golden Envelope today, as we didn't have time to introduce a new book from the series we've been working on. A short session the Tumblebooks link tonight might be in order. As well, spending 15 minutes on the "Adding Practise" link would reinforce what we've been practising in math for the last little while.
The Festival of Trees visit went very well. The trees are lovely and will remain on display until this Saturday - drop on in if you get a minute. It's a great fundraiser for the museum.
If anyone is able to send food bank items, we'll be collecting until this Friday morning. Thanks!
For our concert tomorrow night, please have your child at the school in our classroom by 6:30. The concert begins at 7 and should be all wrapped up by 8 o'clock. There will be a silver collection at the door. Proceeds go to our school's Foster Child and Mother Hubbard's Cupboard program.
The Festival of Trees visit went very well. The trees are lovely and will remain on display until this Saturday - drop on in if you get a minute. It's a great fundraiser for the museum.
If anyone is able to send food bank items, we'll be collecting until this Friday morning. Thanks!
For our concert tomorrow night, please have your child at the school in our classroom by 6:30. The concert begins at 7 and should be all wrapped up by 8 o'clock. There will be a silver collection at the door. Proceeds go to our school's Foster Child and Mother Hubbard's Cupboard program.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
December 10, 2010
Reminders:
1. Read "The Slide" from the Golden Envelope.
2. Practise adding facts from the Addition Practise link on the side.
3. We'll be visiting the Festival of the Trees at the museum first thing Wednesday afternoon. (There is no charge for this activity.)
The students performed very well in this afternoon's dress rehearsal! Stay tuned for Thursday night's performance, when we should really shine!
1. Read "The Slide" from the Golden Envelope.
2. Practise adding facts from the Addition Practise link on the side.
3. We'll be visiting the Festival of the Trees at the museum first thing Wednesday afternoon. (There is no charge for this activity.)
The students performed very well in this afternoon's dress rehearsal! Stay tuned for Thursday night's performance, when we should really shine!
Monday, December 13, 2010
December 13, 2010
There is no spelling list for this week. (Merry Christmas!)
Reminders:
1. Our class will be performing in tomorrow's afternoon dress rehearsal. The rehearsal begins at 1:30. Everyone is welcome to attend. Students should dress in their Christmas finery - nice pants and shirts for the boys (a vest would be a nice touch, if anyone has one); Christmas skirts or dresses or nice pants and blouses for the girls. (The morning dress rehearsal begins at 9:00, if anyone is interested in watching that, as well.) The class looks wonderful - they should be a hit tomorrow!
2. We will be going to the museum Wednesday afternoon, right after attendance, to view the Festival of the Trees display. We should be back by 2:00 at the latest.
3. Our concert night is Thursday. Students should be here by 6:30.
4. Please monitor your child's Golden Envelope reading. The students who are practising these books regularly are really moving along well with their reading.
I've added an "Addition Practise" link to the links line-up. It would help all the first graders to jump on this link and practise their addition skills for a quarter of an hour or so. We've been practising adding using these steps:
A. Decide which number is bigger.
B. Hold the big number in your head. ("Glue" it in there.)
C. Hold up the number of fingers (or lay out some buttons or pennies or some other manipulative) that you need to add to the big number.
D. Count on from the big number.
An example would work this way:
8 + 3
A. 8 is the bigger number
B. Hold the "8" in your head - GLUE it in there!
C. Hold up three fingers. (Or choose 3 buttons, pennies, etc.)
D. Count on from the "8" - 9, 10, 11. The answer is 11.
The more experience the students get with this, the better they'll be able to add.
Reminders:
1. Our class will be performing in tomorrow's afternoon dress rehearsal. The rehearsal begins at 1:30. Everyone is welcome to attend. Students should dress in their Christmas finery - nice pants and shirts for the boys (a vest would be a nice touch, if anyone has one); Christmas skirts or dresses or nice pants and blouses for the girls. (The morning dress rehearsal begins at 9:00, if anyone is interested in watching that, as well.) The class looks wonderful - they should be a hit tomorrow!
2. We will be going to the museum Wednesday afternoon, right after attendance, to view the Festival of the Trees display. We should be back by 2:00 at the latest.
3. Our concert night is Thursday. Students should be here by 6:30.
4. Please monitor your child's Golden Envelope reading. The students who are practising these books regularly are really moving along well with their reading.
I've added an "Addition Practise" link to the links line-up. It would help all the first graders to jump on this link and practise their addition skills for a quarter of an hour or so. We've been practising adding using these steps:
A. Decide which number is bigger.
B. Hold the big number in your head. ("Glue" it in there.)
C. Hold up the number of fingers (or lay out some buttons or pennies or some other manipulative) that you need to add to the big number.
D. Count on from the big number.
An example would work this way:
8 + 3
A. 8 is the bigger number
B. Hold the "8" in your head - GLUE it in there!
C. Hold up three fingers. (Or choose 3 buttons, pennies, etc.)
D. Count on from the "8" - 9, 10, 11. The answer is 11.
The more experience the students get with this, the better they'll be able to add.
Friday, December 10, 2010
December 10, 2010
Spelling test results are in the pockets of the agendas. The students are also bringing home little Christmas booklets that they've illustrated and coloured. These can stay at home. Enjoy!
Thanks to those who've sent food bank items. We'll be visiting the museum next Wednesday afternoon to view the entries in the Festival of the Trees. The visit is free, but the museum is accepting food bank donations, so if you'd like to send an extra little something to support the museum's food bank drive, I'm sure it would be appreciated.
Thanks to everyone who returned skating forms, as well. If you haven't signed and returned your child's form, please do so asap.
The angel papers turned out very well! There are just a few that still need to be completed. Try to have them finished by Monday morning so we can add them to our bulletin board display. Again: thanks.
Thanks to those who've sent food bank items. We'll be visiting the museum next Wednesday afternoon to view the entries in the Festival of the Trees. The visit is free, but the museum is accepting food bank donations, so if you'd like to send an extra little something to support the museum's food bank drive, I'm sure it would be appreciated.
Thanks to everyone who returned skating forms, as well. If you haven't signed and returned your child's form, please do so asap.
The angel papers turned out very well! There are just a few that still need to be completed. Try to have them finished by Monday morning so we can add them to our bulletin board display. Again: thanks.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
December 9, 2010
Reminders:
1. Spelling test tomorrow
2. Angel Paper is due tomorrow
3. Girls, if you haven't brought a big metal bowl yet, please do so asap (if you have one! If you don't have one, I can loan you one of mine.)
We will be going skating in the new year and require signed permission for this activity. I thought I'd get a jump-start on organizing for January by sending the note home today. It's rare that I'm ahead of the game like this - just go with the "January 3, 2011" date on the letter if you could! Thanks!
1. Spelling test tomorrow
2. Angel Paper is due tomorrow
3. Girls, if you haven't brought a big metal bowl yet, please do so asap (if you have one! If you don't have one, I can loan you one of mine.)
We will be going skating in the new year and require signed permission for this activity. I thought I'd get a jump-start on organizing for January by sending the note home today. It's rare that I'm ahead of the game like this - just go with the "January 3, 2011" date on the letter if you could! Thanks!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
December 8, 2010
Tonight's Golden Envelope book concentrates on the "ai" sound. If you want to challenge your son or daughter, try to find as many "ai" rhyming words as possible.
Thanks to everyone who sent food bank items today. We'll be collecting items right up until the last day of school, so send non-perishables as often as you'd like.
The students all brought home an angel today. The angels are theirs to keep. In return, the students must complete the "My Angel" sheet in the front pocket of their agendas. They need to choose a theme for their angel - it could be an angel of hockey, or the kitchen, or baby brothers, or reading, or movies, or Christmas .... anything goes. Then they need to write about what their angel does; if it's a hockey angel, it could help them tie skates or score goals or skate like the wind or show good sportsmanship (or sportswomanship, I suppose). If you want, you can even take a photo of the angel in action and attach it to the sheet. The write-ups for the angels are due this Friday. I can't wait to see what everyone will come up with. Have fun!
We dove head first today into rehearsal for the Christmas concert. If today's practise is indicative of how well the class will perform next week, let me say this is one concert you don't want to miss. You're in for a Hallmark moment or two for sure. Everyone looks fantastic! (Girls, if you have a large metal mixing bowl at home, try to remember to bring it to school for tomorrow. We'll need to keep it to practise with until next Thursday's concert.)
I've added a link to a site that has a wide variety of Christmas activities. (FYI: Some of the choices on the site have religious themes; I'm letting you choose which activities you think appropriate for your child.)
Thanks to everyone who sent food bank items today. We'll be collecting items right up until the last day of school, so send non-perishables as often as you'd like.
The students all brought home an angel today. The angels are theirs to keep. In return, the students must complete the "My Angel" sheet in the front pocket of their agendas. They need to choose a theme for their angel - it could be an angel of hockey, or the kitchen, or baby brothers, or reading, or movies, or Christmas .... anything goes. Then they need to write about what their angel does; if it's a hockey angel, it could help them tie skates or score goals or skate like the wind or show good sportsmanship (or sportswomanship, I suppose). If you want, you can even take a photo of the angel in action and attach it to the sheet. The write-ups for the angels are due this Friday. I can't wait to see what everyone will come up with. Have fun!
We dove head first today into rehearsal for the Christmas concert. If today's practise is indicative of how well the class will perform next week, let me say this is one concert you don't want to miss. You're in for a Hallmark moment or two for sure. Everyone looks fantastic! (Girls, if you have a large metal mixing bowl at home, try to remember to bring it to school for tomorrow. We'll need to keep it to practise with until next Thursday's concert.)
I've added a link to a site that has a wide variety of Christmas activities. (FYI: Some of the choices on the site have religious themes; I'm letting you choose which activities you think appropriate for your child.)
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
December 7, 2010
Our school will be collecting items for our annual drive for the local food bank. If you would like to contribute, please send non-perishable items (canned food, boxed cereal, juices, pasta, etc.) as often as you'd like. Thanks so much!
Girls, please bring a large metal bowl to school for tomorrow, if possible. (We need the bowls to begin practising the movements for our Christmas concert number, so will be keeping the bowls here until next Thursday night. Thanks.)
Remember to study this week's spelling words and to keep reading in the Golden Envelope book program!
Girls, please bring a large metal bowl to school for tomorrow, if possible. (We need the bowls to begin practising the movements for our Christmas concert number, so will be keeping the bowls here until next Thursday night. Thanks.)
Remember to study this week's spelling words and to keep reading in the Golden Envelope book program!
Monday, December 6, 2010
December 6, 2010
This week's spelling words are listed in the agendas. The focus this week is on "ow", as in the words "cow, how, now, wow, down", etc. We discussed the fact that this is only one way to make the "ow" sound and that "ow" sometimes can say other things (as in the words "owner" or "grow").
Today's Golden Envelope book is introducing the "ea" combination, while still reviewing "magic e" words. If everyone keeps up with this nightly reading, it will really help move the class along the road to becoming competent, confident readers.
Great job on the Sam journal entries! It's always great to see what has been added to Sam's catalogue of experiences!
Our class will be performing in next Thursday's Christmas concert (December 16th). There are no special costumes required - everyone can just wear their Christmas finery - but girls will need a LARGE metal mixing bowl and an apron (if possible).
Today's Golden Envelope book is introducing the "ea" combination, while still reviewing "magic e" words. If everyone keeps up with this nightly reading, it will really help move the class along the road to becoming competent, confident readers.
Great job on the Sam journal entries! It's always great to see what has been added to Sam's catalogue of experiences!
Our class will be performing in next Thursday's Christmas concert (December 16th). There are no special costumes required - everyone can just wear their Christmas finery - but girls will need a LARGE metal mixing bowl and an apron (if possible).
Friday, December 3, 2010
December 3, 2010
Spelling test results and swimming report cards are in the front pockets of the agendas.
There were some super "Rock Stars" in class today! (The journals are going to have some interesting photos in them from this event!)
Keep reading those Golden Envelope books. Today's book is reinforcing the "squeally e" (ee) and "magic e" concepts.
Stay tuned next week for information on our Christmas concert number. Woooeeee.
Enjoy the weekend!
There were some super "Rock Stars" in class today! (The journals are going to have some interesting photos in them from this event!)
Keep reading those Golden Envelope books. Today's book is reinforcing the "squeally e" (ee) and "magic e" concepts.
Stay tuned next week for information on our Christmas concert number. Woooeeee.
Enjoy the weekend!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
December 2, 2010
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Swimming gear
3. Book orders are due
4. Rock Star Day
5. Noon dismissal
1. Spelling test
2. Swimming gear
3. Book orders are due
4. Rock Star Day
5. Noon dismissal
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
December 1, 2010
Reminders:
1. Swimming tomorrow
2. Rock Star Day Friday
3. Noon dismissal Friday
4. Book orders due Friday morning
5. Newsletters went home today. Check the front pocket of your child's agenda for your copy.
I've added a link to a "Reindeer Orchestra" on the side. Check it out - it's a hoot!
1. Swimming tomorrow
2. Rock Star Day Friday
3. Noon dismissal Friday
4. Book orders due Friday morning
5. Newsletters went home today. Check the front pocket of your child's agenda for your copy.
I've added a link to a "Reindeer Orchestra" on the side. Check it out - it's a hoot!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
November 30, 2010
Swimming lessons are going very well. We're lucky that the weather has warmed up for us so that we don't iciclize on our trek back to school. (Thanks to whoever is in charge of the weather this week!) Also, thanks so much to the parents who have been helping out with the changing rooms - you're appreciated! Please remember to send swimming gear again tomorrow morning.
We had a pretty full schedule today so did not get a chance to introduce the type of golden envelope book that has been coming home for the past while. Students made their own (quick!) choice today - hopefully they chose well!
This Friday is "Rock Star Day". Students are invited (but not required) to dress up as a rock star Friday morning. It should be interesting ....
If you enjoyed the driftwood art yesterday, you might like the "hand art" photos that accompany today's blog post. Feast your eyes on these: Hand Art pictures.
We had a pretty full schedule today so did not get a chance to introduce the type of golden envelope book that has been coming home for the past while. Students made their own (quick!) choice today - hopefully they chose well!
This Friday is "Rock Star Day". Students are invited (but not required) to dress up as a rock star Friday morning. It should be interesting ....
If you enjoyed the driftwood art yesterday, you might like the "hand art" photos that accompany today's blog post. Feast your eyes on these: Hand Art pictures.
Monday, November 29, 2010
November 29, 2010
It's hard to believe that we're in the last gasps of November. The year is flying by!
Remember to send swimming gear for tomorrow morning. (The lessons went very well today, by the way.) Also, a warm hat is essential for our walk back to the school after swimming.
We're waiting for a few report cards to be returned. If you still have your child's report card at home, please sign and return it as soon as you can. Thanks.
This week's spelling assignment is based on the "magic e" rule - so "pin" becomes "pine", "cub" becomes "cube", etc. The spelling also compliments the Golden Envelope book for the day.
I came across this amazing driftwood art and thought everyone might like a peek. (I'm thinking, however tempting it may be, we should probably NOT attempt this as a class project. But we can always dream! Who knows what fires may be lit from these photos?!) Just scroll down the page after you click on the words "driftwood art" (in the first line of this paragraph) and you'll see some amazing sights.
Remember to send swimming gear for tomorrow morning. (The lessons went very well today, by the way.) Also, a warm hat is essential for our walk back to the school after swimming.
We're waiting for a few report cards to be returned. If you still have your child's report card at home, please sign and return it as soon as you can. Thanks.
This week's spelling assignment is based on the "magic e" rule - so "pin" becomes "pine", "cub" becomes "cube", etc. The spelling also compliments the Golden Envelope book for the day.
I came across this amazing driftwood art and thought everyone might like a peek. (I'm thinking, however tempting it may be, we should probably NOT attempt this as a class project. But we can always dream! Who knows what fires may be lit from these photos?!) Just scroll down the page after you click on the words "driftwood art" (in the first line of this paragraph) and you'll see some amazing sights.
Friday, November 26, 2010
November 26, 2010
Thanks to everyone who came in for interviews this week; it's always nice to touch base with home and hearth. Please remember, too, that you don't need to have a formal interview if you ever have questions or concerns. Just drop in and talk to me - or leave a note in your child's agenda or on the message machine. (Our phone number is 780-852-4447 and the classroom extension is 204.)
Spelling test results went home today.
We have swimming every morning next week - remember swim gear and warm clothes for afterward.
If you're rattling around the Tumblebooks site this weekend, be sure to look at the "Games" components of the stories that are available. (You'll find it on the far right of the screen - just opposite the "View online" bubble.) There are some great ideas in the games area - super extensions that reinforce comprehension and fluency, especially for those readers who are beginning to blast off with their reading.
We've begun a new writing component for our Language Arts program. Each day a student's name will be drawn. The person chosen will get to take home the class "stuffie" - a pink critter named Sam. Sam will join in with the student's activities for the evening, then the student will write a journal entry describing those activities. (There's also room for a photo or picture to be added to the journal.) Then Sam, her journal, and the tote bag she come in will be returned to school the next day for someone else. It's always fun to see what Sam's been up to - can't wait until next Monday morning, when Matteo (Sam's first host) returns with news about their weekend!
Spelling test results went home today.
We have swimming every morning next week - remember swim gear and warm clothes for afterward.
If you're rattling around the Tumblebooks site this weekend, be sure to look at the "Games" components of the stories that are available. (You'll find it on the far right of the screen - just opposite the "View online" bubble.) There are some great ideas in the games area - super extensions that reinforce comprehension and fluency, especially for those readers who are beginning to blast off with their reading.
We've begun a new writing component for our Language Arts program. Each day a student's name will be drawn. The person chosen will get to take home the class "stuffie" - a pink critter named Sam. Sam will join in with the student's activities for the evening, then the student will write a journal entry describing those activities. (There's also room for a photo or picture to be added to the journal.) Then Sam, her journal, and the tote bag she come in will be returned to school the next day for someone else. It's always fun to see what Sam's been up to - can't wait until next Monday morning, when Matteo (Sam's first host) returns with news about their weekend!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
November 25, 2010
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test - yay!
2. There will be a noon dismissal for students tomorrow.
The students were each given a "Skippyjon Jones" book today for their golden envelope reading. The books are for the students to keep - there is no need to return them tomorrow. (Please send the gold envelope back, though!)
I should remind everyone that next week our class goes to the pool every morning for our swimming lessons. The lessons are scheduled for 9:30 - 10:00 so we will leave the school around 9:10 and should return before noon. (Ha ha. We're aiming for a return some time around 10:30.) Please ensure that your child has a swim suit and towel, and that they are warmly dressed next week. Warm hats will be especially important.
1. Spelling test - yay!
2. There will be a noon dismissal for students tomorrow.
The students were each given a "Skippyjon Jones" book today for their golden envelope reading. The books are for the students to keep - there is no need to return them tomorrow. (Please send the gold envelope back, though!)
I should remind everyone that next week our class goes to the pool every morning for our swimming lessons. The lessons are scheduled for 9:30 - 10:00 so we will leave the school around 9:10 and should return before noon. (Ha ha. We're aiming for a return some time around 10:30.) Please ensure that your child has a swim suit and towel, and that they are warmly dressed next week. Warm hats will be especially important.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
November 24, 2010
Thanks for returning all the parent-teacher interview forms. I'll be contacting everyone by phone to set up meeting times.
We have a new girl added to our class today - welcome, Marielle!
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Read the "Golden Envelope" book.
2. Study spelling.
Also, I should remind everyone that there will be a noon dismissal for students this Friday.
We have been studying colour in science and recently talked about the role that colour can play in nature. The subject of camouflage came up, so I thought I'd add this link to a "human camo" expert. (Just click on the words "human camo" in the last sentence.) Enjoy!
We have a new girl added to our class today - welcome, Marielle!
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Read the "Golden Envelope" book.
2. Study spelling.
Also, I should remind everyone that there will be a noon dismissal for students this Friday.
We have been studying colour in science and recently talked about the role that colour can play in nature. The subject of camouflage came up, so I thought I'd add this link to a "human camo" expert. (Just click on the words "human camo" in the last sentence.) Enjoy!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
November 23, 2010
Sorry for not posting for the last couple of days. (The power was cut off Friday before I could post and I've been at a workshop in Edmonton for the last 2 days.)
By now everyone should have had a chance to read over the report card that was sent home yesterday. Please sign and return the report card in the envelope it came in. (We reuse the envelopes.) Also, if you haven't already signed and returned your interview form, please do that ASAP and I'll set up an interview time with you. Thanks!
Stay warm!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
November 17, 2010
Reminders:
1. Cookie sale tomorrow.
2. Study spelling.
3. Read the "Golden Envelope" book.
4. I forgot to send home today's note. It outlined the swim schedule at the local pool. Anyone who missed picking it up can get it tomorrow.
Enjoy the snow!
1. Cookie sale tomorrow.
2. Study spelling.
3. Read the "Golden Envelope" book.
4. I forgot to send home today's note. It outlined the swim schedule at the local pool. Anyone who missed picking it up can get it tomorrow.
Enjoy the snow!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
November 16, 2010
Reminders:
1. If you haven't already sent back the swim permission form, please do so asap. Thanks!
2. There will be a cookie sale Thursday.
3. Practise the spelling words! Remember that "Spelling City" link at the side. It's got lots of great activities.
4. Read the "Golden Envelope" book. Remember, if you're stuck, ask, "What do I know about this word?" Or look at the picture - maybe it will help with the word(s). Or read the rest of the sentence. Or ask if you know another word like the one you're stuck on.
5. Try jumping on the math links and rattle around some of the games there.
1. If you haven't already sent back the swim permission form, please do so asap. Thanks!
2. There will be a cookie sale Thursday.
3. Practise the spelling words! Remember that "Spelling City" link at the side. It's got lots of great activities.
4. Read the "Golden Envelope" book. Remember, if you're stuck, ask, "What do I know about this word?" Or look at the picture - maybe it will help with the word(s). Or read the rest of the sentence. Or ask if you know another word like the one you're stuck on.
5. Try jumping on the math links and rattle around some of the games there.
Monday, November 15, 2010
November 15, 2010
Just a heads-up for this Thursday: there will be a cookie sale at recess. Shine up those quarters!
It's great to see everyone keeping up with the "Golden Envelope" reading program - well done!
Don't forget to try out the Spelling City link at the side - it's got tons of games and activities that will help make a spelling Einstein (I hope that's how Albert spelled his name....) out of anyone! Just enter the list of spelling words on the blanks and start your spelling engines.
It's great to see everyone keeping up with the "Golden Envelope" reading program - well done!
Don't forget to try out the Spelling City link at the side - it's got tons of games and activities that will help make a spelling Einstein (I hope that's how Albert spelled his name....) out of anyone! Just enter the list of spelling words on the blanks and start your spelling engines.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
November 10, 2010
Remember that there is no school tomorrow.
There will be a pajama day at school Friday. Students are invited (but not required) to wear pj's and bring slippers, housecoats, and snuggly animals. Think of all the time you'll save getting ready in the morning!
Remember to practise for Friday's spelling test.
We wrote another test on reading number words today. There was lots of improvement overall - great to see!
I will be away on Friday so will not post again until Monday after school. Until then ....
There will be a pajama day at school Friday. Students are invited (but not required) to wear pj's and bring slippers, housecoats, and snuggly animals. Think of all the time you'll save getting ready in the morning!
Remember to practise for Friday's spelling test.
We wrote another test on reading number words today. There was lots of improvement overall - great to see!
I will be away on Friday so will not post again until Monday after school. Until then ....
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
November 9, 2010
Reminders for today:
1. Practise spelling.
2. Practise counting - forward to 20 and backward to one, and by 2's, 5's and 10's to 100.
3. Print out the number words to twenty (one, two, three, etc.) and practise reading them. We tested the class today on these words. Anyone who did not get 20/20 will have another chance to write the test tomorrow. Practise hard! If your child is stuck on a word, ask them, "What do you know about this word?" then wait for them to try to solve the problem on their own. Watch out for numbers that begin the same way (like twelve and twenty) and have them look at the whole word. If your child makes a mistake reading the numbers, ask them to take a second look or "Check that one again."
Today's take-home "Golden Envelope" reading selection is a snappy little number called "Hal and Nip". Have your child work on reading the sentences smoothly. It should sound as though they're speaking to someone - try to have them avoid being robotic. (Repeating a sentence once they've worked through it and figured out the sense of it will help them smooth the reading out.)
There will be no school on Remembrance Day.
The guitars are on display at the back of the classroom and they look FANTASTIC! Drop in for a peek if you get a minute.
1. Practise spelling.
2. Practise counting - forward to 20 and backward to one, and by 2's, 5's and 10's to 100.
3. Print out the number words to twenty (one, two, three, etc.) and practise reading them. We tested the class today on these words. Anyone who did not get 20/20 will have another chance to write the test tomorrow. Practise hard! If your child is stuck on a word, ask them, "What do you know about this word?" then wait for them to try to solve the problem on their own. Watch out for numbers that begin the same way (like twelve and twenty) and have them look at the whole word. If your child makes a mistake reading the numbers, ask them to take a second look or "Check that one again."
Today's take-home "Golden Envelope" reading selection is a snappy little number called "Hal and Nip". Have your child work on reading the sentences smoothly. It should sound as though they're speaking to someone - try to have them avoid being robotic. (Repeating a sentence once they've worked through it and figured out the sense of it will help them smooth the reading out.)
There will be no school on Remembrance Day.
The guitars are on display at the back of the classroom and they look FANTASTIC! Drop in for a peek if you get a minute.
Monday, November 8, 2010
November 8, 2010
The book orders that came home today are due this Friday. Thanks.
We'll be having a test tomorrow on recognizing the words for the numbers from one to twenty and on counting forward to 20 and backward from 20 down to 0. Study hard!
This week's spelling list is a little shorter because the words are a bit tougher. The words were chosen because they appear so often in our reading.
The students finished up a "sub rosa" (see if your child remembers what that means) project for Mrs. Wilson. (Sadly, Mrs. Wilson will be leaving us at the end of December for the greener pastures and brighter lights of retirement.) Your child is allowed to tell you what we did, but you MUST be sworn to secrecy regarding our activity!
The Hallowe'en activity booklets that went home today are yours to keep. You can fatten up your magazine racks now!
Welcome back, Matteo - and thank you for the yummy treats you brought back from Hawaii!
We'll be having a test tomorrow on recognizing the words for the numbers from one to twenty and on counting forward to 20 and backward from 20 down to 0. Study hard!
This week's spelling list is a little shorter because the words are a bit tougher. The words were chosen because they appear so often in our reading.
The students finished up a "sub rosa" (see if your child remembers what that means) project for Mrs. Wilson. (Sadly, Mrs. Wilson will be leaving us at the end of December for the greener pastures and brighter lights of retirement.) Your child is allowed to tell you what we did, but you MUST be sworn to secrecy regarding our activity!
The Hallowe'en activity booklets that went home today are yours to keep. You can fatten up your magazine racks now!
Welcome back, Matteo - and thank you for the yummy treats you brought back from Hawaii!
Friday, November 5, 2010
November 5, 2010
Great job on the "Golden Envelope" reading program. Today's book is concentrating on the short "o" sound; I hope you enjoy "Dot's Pot".
Remember that "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is playing Sunday at 1:00 at the Activity Centre. Hope to see lots of people there!
Enjoy the weekend!
Remember that "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is playing Sunday at 1:00 at the Activity Centre. Hope to see lots of people there!
Enjoy the weekend!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
November 4, 2010
Study hard for tomorrow's spelling test!
Remember that tomorrow is an early dismissal day; students are finished classes at noon.
Today's golden envelope book ("Will Bill") reviews the short "i" sound. Students have been working really well through these books. The at-home review is helping alot!
Our time in the computer lab went much more smoothly today - more students are remembering their birthdays - great to see! Please check and see if your child knows his/her birthday and, if you get a chance, have them memorize this information. It makes logging in at the computer lab a far faster process.
While we were in the lab today, some students accessed the "A Plus Math" site. It's listed in the links on the right hand side of this blog. There are some math games that will extend the adding and subtracting bases that we've been working to establish. Some of the games involve adding or subtracting larger numbers than those we've used in class, but they provide opportunities for good enrichment.
Remember that "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is playing this Sunday at 1:00 at the activity centre. Tickets are available at Tekarra Colour Lab and at The Other Paw. Hope to see you there!
Remember that tomorrow is an early dismissal day; students are finished classes at noon.
Today's golden envelope book ("Will Bill") reviews the short "i" sound. Students have been working really well through these books. The at-home review is helping alot!
Our time in the computer lab went much more smoothly today - more students are remembering their birthdays - great to see! Please check and see if your child knows his/her birthday and, if you get a chance, have them memorize this information. It makes logging in at the computer lab a far faster process.
While we were in the lab today, some students accessed the "A Plus Math" site. It's listed in the links on the right hand side of this blog. There are some math games that will extend the adding and subtracting bases that we've been working to establish. Some of the games involve adding or subtracting larger numbers than those we've used in class, but they provide opportunities for good enrichment.
Remember that "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is playing this Sunday at 1:00 at the activity centre. Tickets are available at Tekarra Colour Lab and at The Other Paw. Hope to see you there!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
November 3, 2010
Just a reminder that the book fair is open tonight until 7:00 in the library upstairs.
There is a School Advisory Council meeting tonight as well - at 7:00 in the staffroom upstairs. Everyone is welcome to attend.
There is another cookie sale tomorrow. Dig out those quarters!
There will be no school for students this Friday afternoon. Hopefully the beautiful weather will hold until then so that everyone can get outside to enjoy the time away from studies!
We were reviewing the concepts of "more than" and "less than" today in math. Some students are struggling to understand the meanings of these terms. A good way to practise at home is to count a set number of items - buttons, pennies, chocolate chips, spoons - whatever - with the child and then have them show what one (or two or three or four) MORE would look like. Then do the same thing with the idea of one (or two or three or four) LESS.
We worked on reviewing the short "e" sound today; this goes along with the "Brett, My Pet" book. Lots of the students are beginning to smooth out their reading now - it's great to see the progress.
The guitar factory here in Room 4 opened up today. The guitars should be "sparkle-ized" and strung and ready for viewing by next Monday morning. Hold your breath!
There is a School Advisory Council meeting tonight as well - at 7:00 in the staffroom upstairs. Everyone is welcome to attend.
There is another cookie sale tomorrow. Dig out those quarters!
There will be no school for students this Friday afternoon. Hopefully the beautiful weather will hold until then so that everyone can get outside to enjoy the time away from studies!
We were reviewing the concepts of "more than" and "less than" today in math. Some students are struggling to understand the meanings of these terms. A good way to practise at home is to count a set number of items - buttons, pennies, chocolate chips, spoons - whatever - with the child and then have them show what one (or two or three or four) MORE would look like. Then do the same thing with the idea of one (or two or three or four) LESS.
We worked on reviewing the short "e" sound today; this goes along with the "Brett, My Pet" book. Lots of the students are beginning to smooth out their reading now - it's great to see the progress.
The guitar factory here in Room 4 opened up today. The guitars should be "sparkle-ized" and strung and ready for viewing by next Monday morning. Hold your breath!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
November 2, 2010
Reminders:
1. The book fair is open until 7:00 tonight in the library upstairs. It's also open tomorrow from 8:30 until 7:00 pm.
2. There is a note in your child's agenda regarding a performance this Sunday of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" - big news since this is a novel that I read to the class earlier this year.
3. Photos were sent home today. Enjoy!
Thanks so much to Ethan's mom, Sarah's parents, and Zoe's parents for cutting out our guitar forms. We're planning on decorating them tomorrow... stay tuned (ha ha) for an update on this fabulous project!
Thanks to Bryzen for the wonderful gifts he brought for the class today. What a thoughtful and generous boy!
We made thinking caps in school today to go along with the "My Cap" book - stop in and have a look if you get a chance tomorrow.
Click here to find some more counting practise - this time counting by 2's. Just scroll down to the Caterpillar counting games - there's one to practise counting forward and one to practise counting backward. Then scrool down to the Cockatoo song and try reading the lyrics which incorporates rhyming word practise with a page that counts by 2's.
1. The book fair is open until 7:00 tonight in the library upstairs. It's also open tomorrow from 8:30 until 7:00 pm.
2. There is a note in your child's agenda regarding a performance this Sunday of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" - big news since this is a novel that I read to the class earlier this year.
3. Photos were sent home today. Enjoy!
Thanks so much to Ethan's mom, Sarah's parents, and Zoe's parents for cutting out our guitar forms. We're planning on decorating them tomorrow... stay tuned (ha ha) for an update on this fabulous project!
Thanks to Bryzen for the wonderful gifts he brought for the class today. What a thoughtful and generous boy!
We made thinking caps in school today to go along with the "My Cap" book - stop in and have a look if you get a chance tomorrow.
Click here to find some more counting practise - this time counting by 2's. Just scroll down to the Caterpillar counting games - there's one to practise counting forward and one to practise counting backward. Then scrool down to the Cockatoo song and try reading the lyrics which incorporates rhyming word practise with a page that counts by 2's.
Monday, November 1, 2010
November 1, 2010
We went over yesterday's blog posting in class today to show the students how to find a Hallowe'en card, a Hallowe'en counting game, and the links to some Hallowe'en songs and a spelling site. Just look at yesterday's posting to find these thrilling items.
Newletters went home today.
There will be a book fair in the library this Tuesday and Wednesday (8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.). Our class will be visiting the fair in the afternoon. If you would like to purchase books, you can drop in yourself at any time during "business hours" or, if you'd prefer, you can send money with your child so they can make their own purchases. (Buying books is strictly optional, of course. We'll just browse if no one has any money.)
I wanted to post the expectations for the math unit we are currently working on. Students are expected to be able to:
1. Read and write numbers from 1 to 20.
2. Read number words from 1 to 20.
3. Count forward from 0 to 20.
4. Count backward from 20 to 0.
5. Match number words to groups of things.
6. Build numbers in different ways.
7. Compare numbers and pictures using words like "more, fewer, and same."
8. Estimate numbers of things and check by counting.
9. Solve simple number problems.
Newletters went home today.
There will be a book fair in the library this Tuesday and Wednesday (8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.). Our class will be visiting the fair in the afternoon. If you would like to purchase books, you can drop in yourself at any time during "business hours" or, if you'd prefer, you can send money with your child so they can make their own purchases. (Buying books is strictly optional, of course. We'll just browse if no one has any money.)
I wanted to post the expectations for the math unit we are currently working on. Students are expected to be able to:
1. Read and write numbers from 1 to 20.
2. Read number words from 1 to 20.
3. Count forward from 0 to 20.
4. Count backward from 20 to 0.
5. Match number words to groups of things.
6. Build numbers in different ways.
7. Compare numbers and pictures using words like "more, fewer, and same."
8. Estimate numbers of things and check by counting.
9. Solve simple number problems.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Happy Halloween! Click on the words "Happy Halloween" to find the card that we looked at in class! Enjoy!
I've also added a link to some Halloween songs - just go to the far right hand side of the page and click on the title "Halloween Songs."
Thanks to all the people who sent treats for our party on Friday. Everything was delicious! Great job on the costumes, as well. (We've got some great pictures to add to the journals.) Our trip to the seniors' lodge was alot of fun - and the students' presentation was fangtastic! It can't be long before Hollywood comes knocking at the door of Room 4 at JES ...
Here's another Halloween game-counting backward this time. Just click on the words "counting backward" to go to the link.
Remember to trick or treat safely tonight - and be sure to get an adult to check your candy over before you chow down. Also, please remember that your candy needs to stay at home. (Sorry!) Please bring nutritious snacks - as usual - for your recess eating.
I've also added a link to some Halloween songs - just go to the far right hand side of the page and click on the title "Halloween Songs."
Thanks to all the people who sent treats for our party on Friday. Everything was delicious! Great job on the costumes, as well. (We've got some great pictures to add to the journals.) Our trip to the seniors' lodge was alot of fun - and the students' presentation was fangtastic! It can't be long before Hollywood comes knocking at the door of Room 4 at JES ...
Here's another Halloween game-counting backward this time. Just click on the words "counting backward" to go to the link.
Remember to trick or treat safely tonight - and be sure to get an adult to check your candy over before you chow down. Also, please remember that your candy needs to stay at home. (Sorry!) Please bring nutritious snacks - as usual - for your recess eating.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
October 28, 2010
1. Practise for tomorrow's spelling test.
2. Please send a small juice box to contribute to tomorrow afternoon's witches' brew.
3. I've added a link to a Hallowe'en page that will connect with counting practise. Just click on the following address:
: http://www.oswego.org/ocsd-web/games/spookyseq/spookyseq1.html
4. This is just a final reminder about tomorrow afternoon's costume party and our visit and short performance at the Alpine Seniors' Lodge.
2. Please send a small juice box to contribute to tomorrow afternoon's witches' brew.
3. I've added a link to a Hallowe'en page that will connect with counting practise. Just click on the following address:
: http://www.oswego.org/ocsd-web/games/spookyseq/spookyseq1.html
4. This is just a final reminder about tomorrow afternoon's costume party and our visit and short performance at the Alpine Seniors' Lodge.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
October 27, 2010
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Bring a loonie for the Haunted House that Mrs. Sawka's class is sponsoring. Our class will be visiting the Haunted House in the afternoon. The house will be open until 4:00 p.m. after school tomorrow as well, so if any parents or siblings (or others!) would like to visit, bring a dollar and enjoy the show!
2. There will be a cookie sale tomorrow - bring a quarter if you'd like a cookie!
3. We'll be having our Hallowe'en party Friday afternoon. Students can come dressed in costume after lunch. The school will have a costume parade in the gym right after registration, then we'll head over to the Alpine Seniors' Lodge (the new lodge) to show off our spooky finery and to do a short performance for them. Parents are most welcome to join us at the lodge for our show!
4. We're planning to make a witches' brew for the Friday afternoon party. Please send a small juice box with your child to contribute to the brew making event.
5. Anyone who would like to contribute anything for our snack table on Friday is most welcome to do so - with our thanks and appreciation!
6. I'm still looking for someone who can cut out cardboard guitars for us. Please let me know if you are willing and able to help out with this!
7. Please have your child memorize his/her birthdate. Thanks!
1. Bring a loonie for the Haunted House that Mrs. Sawka's class is sponsoring. Our class will be visiting the Haunted House in the afternoon. The house will be open until 4:00 p.m. after school tomorrow as well, so if any parents or siblings (or others!) would like to visit, bring a dollar and enjoy the show!
2. There will be a cookie sale tomorrow - bring a quarter if you'd like a cookie!
3. We'll be having our Hallowe'en party Friday afternoon. Students can come dressed in costume after lunch. The school will have a costume parade in the gym right after registration, then we'll head over to the Alpine Seniors' Lodge (the new lodge) to show off our spooky finery and to do a short performance for them. Parents are most welcome to join us at the lodge for our show!
4. We're planning to make a witches' brew for the Friday afternoon party. Please send a small juice box with your child to contribute to the brew making event.
5. Anyone who would like to contribute anything for our snack table on Friday is most welcome to do so - with our thanks and appreciation!
6. I'm still looking for someone who can cut out cardboard guitars for us. Please let me know if you are willing and able to help out with this!
7. Please have your child memorize his/her birthdate. Thanks!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
October 26, 2010
We had our first session in the computer lab today. The students need to use their birthdate (month and day) to log in. While we're happy to supply the birthdates to the students, it would be nice if they knew this information themselves. There were quite a few students who didn't know when their birthdays were. If you get a minute, parents, please teach your child his/her birthday. Thanks!
I'm looking for a parent volunteer who wouldn't mind cutting out a set of classroom cardboard guitars for an art project. I already have the cardboard - I just need the manpower! Please let me know if you can help out.
We had some fun writing up witch brew ingredients today - there were some great ideas!
Just a reminder that we'll be visiting the Grade 6 (Mrs. Sawka's class) haunted house this Thursday. Admission to the haunted house is a loonie - and it's worth every penny! Money raised last year was used to purchase 10 mango trees and 2 bee keeping kits to help promote and support economic development in a third world country. What a wonderful opportunity for our students to practise global citizenship and responsibility!
I'm looking for a parent volunteer who wouldn't mind cutting out a set of classroom cardboard guitars for an art project. I already have the cardboard - I just need the manpower! Please let me know if you can help out.
We had some fun writing up witch brew ingredients today - there were some great ideas!
Just a reminder that we'll be visiting the Grade 6 (Mrs. Sawka's class) haunted house this Thursday. Admission to the haunted house is a loonie - and it's worth every penny! Money raised last year was used to purchase 10 mango trees and 2 bee keeping kits to help promote and support economic development in a third world country. What a wonderful opportunity for our students to practise global citizenship and responsibility!
Monday, October 25, 2010
October 25, 2010
It's been some time since I last posted but I'll try to write more regularly on this blog. To begin for today:
This week's spelling words (hot, mop, not, dog, pot, sob,rope, and boat) are concentrating on the vowel "o". The list is shorter this week because of the more varying endings (notice that not many words rhyme, as they have in previous weeks) and because of the addition of two more difficult words (rope and boat) that illustrate some phonetic rules.
The first rule is the "magic e" one - where the silent "e" jumps over the consonant to its left and makes the vowel say its own name.
The second rule is "When 2 vowels go walking, the first one does the talking and it says its own name." So in the word boat, where the vowels "o" and "a" are adjacent, the first one is the one you hear while the second one is silent.
We've been working on Hallowe'en vocabulary, practising the following words: bats, witch, pumpkin, goblin, spider webs, spooky, vampire, monster, skeleton, dark night, trick or treat, rats, full moon, hoot owl, haunted house, costume, mask, mummy, and brew. If the students have trouble remembering the words, the best prompt to give them is to say, "What do you know about this word?" Often the first letter of the word will trigger the student's awareness of the word.
We've also been working on the symbols for "greater than" (>) , "less than" (<), and "equal" in math - comparing 3 witch hats with 5, for example, and representing the answer this way: 3 < 5. We've also been working on adding and subtracting using sums up to 10. We use smartboard figures that can be moved around, or pumpkin/ghost counters at their desks to practise. (This is where the ability to count forward and backward REALLY helps!) We watched a great Hallowe'en short video last week. Just click on the following words:
This week's spelling words (hot, mop, not, dog, pot, sob,rope, and boat) are concentrating on the vowel "o". The list is shorter this week because of the more varying endings (notice that not many words rhyme, as they have in previous weeks) and because of the addition of two more difficult words (rope and boat) that illustrate some phonetic rules.
The first rule is the "magic e" one - where the silent "e" jumps over the consonant to its left and makes the vowel say its own name.
The second rule is "When 2 vowels go walking, the first one does the talking and it says its own name." So in the word boat, where the vowels "o" and "a" are adjacent, the first one is the one you hear while the second one is silent.
We've been working on Hallowe'en vocabulary, practising the following words: bats, witch, pumpkin, goblin, spider webs, spooky, vampire, monster, skeleton, dark night, trick or treat, rats, full moon, hoot owl, haunted house, costume, mask, mummy, and brew. If the students have trouble remembering the words, the best prompt to give them is to say, "What do you know about this word?" Often the first letter of the word will trigger the student's awareness of the word.
We've also been working on the symbols for "greater than" (>) , "less than" (<), and "equal" in math - comparing 3 witch hats with 5, for example, and representing the answer this way: 3 < 5. We've also been working on adding and subtracting using sums up to 10. We use smartboard figures that can be moved around, or pumpkin/ghost counters at their desks to practise. (This is where the ability to count forward and backward REALLY helps!) We watched a great Hallowe'en short video last week. Just click on the following words:
Thursday, September 16, 2010
September 15, 2010
Class photos will be taken tomorrow.
There will be a small cookie sale again tomorrow at recess. (There'll be a one cookie limit for this one!)
Remember to practise the spelling words for tomorrow's test. A good way to practise is to have the child say the word while listening carefully to themselves. They should practise holding the sounds of the words - saying mmmmmmaaaaattt, ssssaaaattt, etc. to help them identify the components of the words. They can put the words together using magnetic letters, if you have them at home.
Book orders have arrived and will go home with your child tomorrow after school.
There will be a small cookie sale again tomorrow at recess. (There'll be a one cookie limit for this one!)
Remember to practise the spelling words for tomorrow's test. A good way to practise is to have the child say the word while listening carefully to themselves. They should practise holding the sounds of the words - saying mmmmmmaaaaattt, ssssaaaattt, etc. to help them identify the components of the words. They can put the words together using magnetic letters, if you have them at home.
Book orders have arrived and will go home with your child tomorrow after school.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
September 15, 2010
Welcome to Adrian, the newest addition to our classroom!
Class pictures were postphoned until Friday, due to the poor weather. Individual photos will still be taken tomorrow, so don't skimp on the Crest tonight.
There will be a cookie sale tomorrow. Cookies are a quarter each, if anyone would like to make a purchase.
The book bags have been coming back very regularly - thanks for taking the time and effort to read to/with your child each night. Regular reading is a great way to build investment in a scholastic future.
I need to thank Matteo's mom and Zoe's mom for agreeing to sit on the school advisory council and Zoe's dad for agreeing to help out as a key communicator. It's great to have such dedication from our parents!
If you have time, check out our "Rare Birds" bulletin board - it should be ready for viewing by this Friday morning. Hold your breath untl then....
Class pictures were postphoned until Friday, due to the poor weather. Individual photos will still be taken tomorrow, so don't skimp on the Crest tonight.
There will be a cookie sale tomorrow. Cookies are a quarter each, if anyone would like to make a purchase.
The book bags have been coming back very regularly - thanks for taking the time and effort to read to/with your child each night. Regular reading is a great way to build investment in a scholastic future.
I need to thank Matteo's mom and Zoe's mom for agreeing to sit on the school advisory council and Zoe's dad for agreeing to help out as a key communicator. It's great to have such dedication from our parents!
If you have time, check out our "Rare Birds" bulletin board - it should be ready for viewing by this Friday morning. Hold your breath untl then....
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
September 14, 2010
Remember class photos will be taken tomorrow morning. Practise those mega-watt smiles!
Thanks to Wyatt's dad and Ethan's mom for volunteering to be our classroom rep on the school advisory council. Double thanks to Ethan's mom for volunteering to be our key communicator.
Thanks to Wyatt's dad and Ethan's mom for volunteering to be our classroom rep on the school advisory council. Double thanks to Ethan's mom for volunteering to be our key communicator.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
September 8, 2010
Thanks to everyone for returning the book bags with all the contents intact! Please enjoy your child's new selection and return it tomorrow.
We had our first art class today. If you attend tomorrow's Meet the Teacher evening, you'll get a chance to see our "Cornflake Art". (Prepare to be dazzled!) We also started memorizing the poem "Cornflake leaves fall from the trees. Are they a breakfast for the breeze?" If you haven't already sent a paint shirt for your child, please do so asap. We do lots of messy art projects; it would be nice to preserve everyone's clothing...
Just a few friendly reminders to close today's blog:
1. If you haven't returned the signed and updated Student Demographics sheet and/or the Computer User sheet(both of these were sent home the first day of school), please do so asap.
2. Book orders are due Friday.
3. Meet the Teacher night is scheduled for tomorrow evening and will begin at 6:30 with staff introductions in the gym. Following that, I'll be in the classroom for an informal drop-in.
We had our first art class today. If you attend tomorrow's Meet the Teacher evening, you'll get a chance to see our "Cornflake Art". (Prepare to be dazzled!) We also started memorizing the poem "Cornflake leaves fall from the trees. Are they a breakfast for the breeze?" If you haven't already sent a paint shirt for your child, please do so asap. We do lots of messy art projects; it would be nice to preserve everyone's clothing...
Just a few friendly reminders to close today's blog:
1. If you haven't returned the signed and updated Student Demographics sheet and/or the Computer User sheet(both of these were sent home the first day of school), please do so asap.
2. Book orders are due Friday.
3. Meet the Teacher night is scheduled for tomorrow evening and will begin at 6:30 with staff introductions in the gym. Following that, I'll be in the classroom for an informal drop-in.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
September 7, 2010
Welcome to our Class Blog! Most of the links on this blog were set up for last year's Grade Three class, but some of them will work for Grade One as well. Rattle around and see what you can come up with! (The links are listed on the right hand side of this page. Just click on the link and you'll be taken to the site listed.)
I'll use this blog to post daily announcements, homework assignments, reminders, "bouquets", etc. Anyone is welcome to comment on the blog online; you just have to set up your own blog before you can comment. Setting up a blog is relatively easy: just go to www.blogspot.com and follow the prompts there.
Our class has 17 students enrolled to date. The students are: Joie, Sarah, Ethan, Joshus, Lloyd, Patrick, Mily, Andre, Wyatt, Ysabelle, Andy, Matteo, Adrian, Bryzen, Athena, Zoe, and Anis.
Our library book exchange is scheduled for Tuesday afternoons. We checked out books this afternoon but are keeping the chosen books at school for the time being.
Today's agenda items include:
1. Book orders are due Friday. You're invited (but not required) to make purchases; please send payment with your order. Thanks.
2. Family handbooks were sent home today.
3. Book bags were also sent home today. Please read the books in the bags to or with your child and return the bag with all its contents (each bag should have a book or two, a "Parent Tips" sheet, and a game or activity) tomorrow. We'll be swapping these books daily.
We've been reviewing colour words, initial consonants on words, and some sight words. Your child should be able to instantly recognize the following words: the, I, is, and stop.
Finally, I thought I'd give you a little advance notice for our September "Meet the Teacher" night. It'll be held this Thursday evening from 6:30 - 7:30. It'll be short and sweet; hope to see you here!
I'll use this blog to post daily announcements, homework assignments, reminders, "bouquets", etc. Anyone is welcome to comment on the blog online; you just have to set up your own blog before you can comment. Setting up a blog is relatively easy: just go to www.blogspot.com and follow the prompts there.
Our class has 17 students enrolled to date. The students are: Joie, Sarah, Ethan, Joshus, Lloyd, Patrick, Mily, Andre, Wyatt, Ysabelle, Andy, Matteo, Adrian, Bryzen, Athena, Zoe, and Anis.
Our library book exchange is scheduled for Tuesday afternoons. We checked out books this afternoon but are keeping the chosen books at school for the time being.
Today's agenda items include:
1. Book orders are due Friday. You're invited (but not required) to make purchases; please send payment with your order. Thanks.
2. Family handbooks were sent home today.
3. Book bags were also sent home today. Please read the books in the bags to or with your child and return the bag with all its contents (each bag should have a book or two, a "Parent Tips" sheet, and a game or activity) tomorrow. We'll be swapping these books daily.
We've been reviewing colour words, initial consonants on words, and some sight words. Your child should be able to instantly recognize the following words: the, I, is, and stop.
Finally, I thought I'd give you a little advance notice for our September "Meet the Teacher" night. It'll be held this Thursday evening from 6:30 - 7:30. It'll be short and sweet; hope to see you here!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Sunday, June 27, 2010
June 27, 2010
Wow! It's been a while since I posted to this blog - sorry about that. My only excuse, lame as it may be, is that I've been spectacularly busy. At any rate, in case anyone is checking in tonight, I wanted to let the third graders know that they're all invited to stay at school for a pizza lunch- on me - tomorrow at noon. I'll contact everyone by phone as well.
Also, I should remind everyone that we will be swimming tomorrow morning. Remember your swim gear! Also, if anyone wants to bring any treats - a bag of chips or veggies or cookies or whatever - for a treat table, please feel free to do so.
One final reminder: we hike in the afternoon, so remember to bring a backpack with water. I'll have bug spray and sunscreen with me.
Until tomorrow, then!
Also, I should remind everyone that we will be swimming tomorrow morning. Remember your swim gear! Also, if anyone wants to bring any treats - a bag of chips or veggies or cookies or whatever - for a treat table, please feel free to do so.
One final reminder: we hike in the afternoon, so remember to bring a backpack with water. I'll have bug spray and sunscreen with me.
Until tomorrow, then!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
June 9, 2010
Word of the day: comprehend
Reminders:
1. Spelling due tomorrow
2. Practise Reading Comprehension and Math problem solving questions from the Exam Bank link
Brain buster challenge: Try saying "Unique New York" five times in a row - quickly and correctly!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due tomorrow
2. Practise Reading Comprehension and Math problem solving questions from the Exam Bank link
Brain buster challenge: Try saying "Unique New York" five times in a row - quickly and correctly!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 8, 2010
Word of the day: procrastinate
Reminders:
1. Choose and complete 10 math problem solving questions from the Exam Bank link
2. Choose and complete 10 reading comprehension questions from the Exam Bank link
Brain buster: Five pieces of coal, a carrot, and a scarf were lying on the lawn. Nobody put them there, but there is a perfectly logical reason for their being there. What is it?
Reminders:
1. Choose and complete 10 math problem solving questions from the Exam Bank link
2. Choose and complete 10 reading comprehension questions from the Exam Bank link
Brain buster: Five pieces of coal, a carrot, and a scarf were lying on the lawn. Nobody put them there, but there is a perfectly logical reason for their being there. What is it?
Friday, June 4, 2010
June 4, 2010
Word of the day: benign
Reminders for Monday:
1. Library card for the afternoon
2. Get math test signed and return it
Enjoy the weekend!
Reminders for Monday:
1. Library card for the afternoon
2. Get math test signed and return it
Enjoy the weekend!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
June 3, 2010
Word of the day: prompt
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Practise some reading comprehension and math problem solving questions from the Exam Bank link
3. The school's EnviroFair will be held tomorrow afternoon. We're trying to run the fair this year with no money involved, so please don't send any cash to school for this event. Our class is hosting a book exchange table; everyone is invited (but not required) to bring a book or books to exchange.
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Practise some reading comprehension and math problem solving questions from the Exam Bank link
3. The school's EnviroFair will be held tomorrow afternoon. We're trying to run the fair this year with no money involved, so please don't send any cash to school for this event. Our class is hosting a book exchange table; everyone is invited (but not required) to bring a book or books to exchange.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
June 2, 2010
Word of the day: illegible
Great news! The class made it to Pfigliano in our counting game!!!!! Wowza! What a thrill!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due tomorrow
2. Return permission form regarding a year end activity day.
3. Read the note on head lice.
Great news! The class made it to Pfigliano in our counting game!!!!! Wowza! What a thrill!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due tomorrow
2. Return permission form regarding a year end activity day.
3. Read the note on head lice.
Monday, May 31, 2010
May 31, 2010
Word of the day: prodigious
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Get math tests signed and returned.
3. Newsletters went home today.
4. The Enviro Club hike is on tomorrow - be sure to have your permission form in if you're involved with this.
I can't believe that May is standing on its last legs! I'm sorry to see the year winding down - it's been such a great Grade Three class to work with!
If you have an extra minute, check out the Hummingbird Link. A crow knocked into the nest last Friday and the baby hummers were knocked out. The gentleman who set up the web cam managed to find one baby and return it to the nest, but the other couldn't be found. The baby in the nest is growing at the speed of light and is nearly as big as Momma! Can it be long before it flies away?
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Get math tests signed and returned.
3. Newsletters went home today.
4. The Enviro Club hike is on tomorrow - be sure to have your permission form in if you're involved with this.
I can't believe that May is standing on its last legs! I'm sorry to see the year winding down - it's been such a great Grade Three class to work with!
If you have an extra minute, check out the Hummingbird Link. A crow knocked into the nest last Friday and the baby hummers were knocked out. The gentleman who set up the web cam managed to find one baby and return it to the nest, but the other couldn't be found. The baby in the nest is growing at the speed of light and is nearly as big as Momma! Can it be long before it flies away?
Thursday, May 27, 2010
May 26, 2010
Word of the day: conspicuous
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Book order due
3. Practise math/reading comprehension questions from the Exam Bank link
4. Library books
Head Scratcher of the Day: Try playing the "Hot chocolate, hot chocolate, I love hot chocolate" game at home.
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Book order due
3. Practise math/reading comprehension questions from the Exam Bank link
4. Library books
Head Scratcher of the Day: Try playing the "Hot chocolate, hot chocolate, I love hot chocolate" game at home.
Friday, May 21, 2010
May 21, 2010
Word of the day: vague
Thanks to all the people who sent cookies for our sale! We raised $98.50 for our Foster Child fund! Awesome!
Congratulations to those who participated in today's talent show - wonderful job!
Reminders for the weekend:
1. Practise math problems and reading comprehension from the Exam Bank link.
2. Enjoy the long weekend - see everybody next Tuesday!
Brain buster for the weekend: A man in a restaurant complained to the waiter that there was a fly in his cup of coffee. The waiter took the cup away and promised to bring a fresh cup of coffee. He returned a few moments later. The man tasted the coffee and complained that this was his original cup of coffee with the fly removed. He was correct, but how could he have known?
Thanks to all the people who sent cookies for our sale! We raised $98.50 for our Foster Child fund! Awesome!
Congratulations to those who participated in today's talent show - wonderful job!
Reminders for the weekend:
1. Practise math problems and reading comprehension from the Exam Bank link.
2. Enjoy the long weekend - see everybody next Tuesday!
Brain buster for the weekend: A man in a restaurant complained to the waiter that there was a fly in his cup of coffee. The waiter took the cup away and promised to bring a fresh cup of coffee. He returned a few moments later. The man tasted the coffee and complained that this was his original cup of coffee with the fly removed. He was correct, but how could he have known?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
May 18, 2010
Word of the day: illegible
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts - and try a few rounds of Zoom Schwartz Pfigliano. We need to break our record of 57!
2. Bring 2 dozen cookies for this Thursday morning for our cookie sale.
3. Enviro Club members, remember to give your parents the note you got today.
4. Talent show participants, remember that you have a practise Thursday after school in the gym.
5. Check out the hummingbird cam!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts - and try a few rounds of Zoom Schwartz Pfigliano. We need to break our record of 57!
2. Bring 2 dozen cookies for this Thursday morning for our cookie sale.
3. Enviro Club members, remember to give your parents the note you got today.
4. Talent show participants, remember that you have a practise Thursday after school in the gym.
5. Check out the hummingbird cam!
Monday, May 17, 2010
May 17, 2010
Word of the day: bogus
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Our class is having a cookie sale this Thursday morning. Please send 2 dozen baked treats (cookies, rice krispie squares, cupcakes - whatever you're good at baking) to school Thursday morning. Proceeds support our school's foster child. Thanks!
3. The goose cam link doesn't seem to have the hummingbird connection any more, so I've added a "Hummingbird Nest" link at the side so that we can still check in on the Orange County mama and babies.
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Our class is having a cookie sale this Thursday morning. Please send 2 dozen baked treats (cookies, rice krispie squares, cupcakes - whatever you're good at baking) to school Thursday morning. Proceeds support our school's foster child. Thanks!
3. The goose cam link doesn't seem to have the hummingbird connection any more, so I've added a "Hummingbird Nest" link at the side so that we can still check in on the Orange County mama and babies.
Friday, May 14, 2010
May 14, 2010
Word of the day: prodigious
Reminders:
1. Practise math tests and reading comprehension tests from the Exam Bank link.
Reminders:
1. Practise math tests and reading comprehension tests from the Exam Bank link.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
May 12, 2010
Word of the day: conspicuous
Reminders:
1. Practise adding, subtracting and multiplying facts from the Exam Bank link. Our 2 minute Provincial Achievement tests in this area are tomorrow.
2. Spelling is due tomorrow.
Reminders:
1. Practise adding, subtracting and multiplying facts from the Exam Bank link. Our 2 minute Provincial Achievement tests in this area are tomorrow.
2. Spelling is due tomorrow.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
May 11, 2010
Word of the day: authentic
The story writing test today went very well! The class produced wildly varying ideas on the picture prompt; everything from video games to gods and goddesses to the Pandora galaxy was featured as a theme - great reading!
Our next Provincial Achievement test is Thursday morning. We'll write the 2 minute timed math facts tests (for adding, subtracting, and multiplication) then.
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts from the Exam Bank link.
2. Check out the goose cam. The mother has left the nest with her single gosling and is not expected to return, but the cam is still trained on the nest. There is a link to a Youtube site showing the gosling, so check that out if you get a minute. And, as many of you know, the second hummingbird egg hatched last night! Some fun!
Switching from feather to fur now, I thought you might enjoy this video, called "All Kids Love Mud Puddles."
The story writing test today went very well! The class produced wildly varying ideas on the picture prompt; everything from video games to gods and goddesses to the Pandora galaxy was featured as a theme - great reading!
Our next Provincial Achievement test is Thursday morning. We'll write the 2 minute timed math facts tests (for adding, subtracting, and multiplication) then.
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts from the Exam Bank link.
2. Check out the goose cam. The mother has left the nest with her single gosling and is not expected to return, but the cam is still trained on the nest. There is a link to a Youtube site showing the gosling, so check that out if you get a minute. And, as many of you know, the second hummingbird egg hatched last night! Some fun!
Switching from feather to fur now, I thought you might enjoy this video, called "All Kids Love Mud Puddles."
Monday, May 10, 2010
May 10, 2010
Word of the day: mnemonic
Congratulations to Breanna, Braeden, Jessa and Adrian for getting Spelling Immunity this week!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Practise math facts from the Exam Bank link
3. Story writing test tomorrow
4. Check out the hummingbird cam - it's an actual humming bird now, not a bald eagle! There were 2 eggs in the nest on Sunday, but this morning when we checked, there was only one egg because the other had hatched! It's definitely worth a peek. Just click on the Goose cam link on the side. It'll take you to the Edmonton Journal website. Just above the goose photo/link is a listing in blue ink for the humming bird cam.
5. Enviro Club members, bring your lunch tomorrow.
I just checked in with the Goose Cam and read an exciting update: at least one of the eggs has hatched! Go Mama Goose!
Congratulations to Breanna, Braeden, Jessa and Adrian for getting Spelling Immunity this week!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Practise math facts from the Exam Bank link
3. Story writing test tomorrow
4. Check out the hummingbird cam - it's an actual humming bird now, not a bald eagle! There were 2 eggs in the nest on Sunday, but this morning when we checked, there was only one egg because the other had hatched! It's definitely worth a peek. Just click on the Goose cam link on the side. It'll take you to the Edmonton Journal website. Just above the goose photo/link is a listing in blue ink for the humming bird cam.
5. Enviro Club members, bring your lunch tomorrow.
I just checked in with the Goose Cam and read an exciting update: at least one of the eggs has hatched! Go Mama Goose!
Friday, May 7, 2010
May 7, 2010
Word of the day: ascend
Reminders:
1. Practise adding, subtracting and multiplying facts on the Exam Bank link
2. Be nice to your mommies!
Check out the Goose Cam for the link to the Hummingbird Cam, which is actually a bald eagle link. The baby eagle has hatched and puts on a great show at feeding time!
Reminders:
1. Practise adding, subtracting and multiplying facts on the Exam Bank link
2. Be nice to your mommies!
Check out the Goose Cam for the link to the Hummingbird Cam, which is actually a bald eagle link. The baby eagle has hatched and puts on a great show at feeding time!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
May 6, 2010
Word of the day: gilded
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Story writing assignment due
3. Practise math facts, especially adding and subtracting, from the Exam Bank link
4. Hat and Tell
5. If you forgot your cup of rice, please bring it!
6. Library books
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Story writing assignment due
3. Practise math facts, especially adding and subtracting, from the Exam Bank link
4. Hat and Tell
5. If you forgot your cup of rice, please bring it!
6. Library books
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
May 5, 2010
Word of the day: intricate
Congratulations to Ethan for perfect completion of his final times tables challenge!
Reminders:
1. Practise adding, subtracting and multipliying facts from the Exam Bank link.
2. Spelling due tomorrow
3. Keep working on the stories that are due Friday
4. Please round up a cup of dry, uncooked rice, beans, lentils, or a reasonable substitute for these items and send it to school tomorrow. Parents, we can't tell you what the rice is for, but can assure you that you'll love it. Ask us no questions, we'll tell you no lies.
Check out the sheep shearing videos from yesterday's baaa-log. (Haha.)
Congratulations to Ethan for perfect completion of his final times tables challenge!
Reminders:
1. Practise adding, subtracting and multipliying facts from the Exam Bank link.
2. Spelling due tomorrow
3. Keep working on the stories that are due Friday
4. Please round up a cup of dry, uncooked rice, beans, lentils, or a reasonable substitute for these items and send it to school tomorrow. Parents, we can't tell you what the rice is for, but can assure you that you'll love it. Ask us no questions, we'll tell you no lies.
Check out the sheep shearing videos from yesterday's baaa-log. (Haha.)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
May 4, 2010
Word of the day: diminutive
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Work on the story that's due Friday
3. Check out the Goose Cam - there's been a change in the weather in the past little while...
We had a story in Language Arts today about sheep and shepherds, so I've included these videos to complement today's reading.
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Work on the story that's due Friday
3. Check out the Goose Cam - there's been a change in the weather in the past little while...
We had a story in Language Arts today about sheep and shepherds, so I've included these videos to complement today's reading.
Monday, May 3, 2010
May 3, 2010
Word of the day: adjacent
I must congratulate the class on the excellent story writing that was produced last week. This group of third graders has lots of talent! I've sent back last week's stories (with the exception of the stories of 4 people - we ran out of time to go over them today so their stories will go home tomorrow) so that folks at home can see all the wonderful things that I've commented on. Please return the stories (last week's and a good copy of this week's) by Friday. THERE IS NO NEED TO REDO LAST WEEK'S STORY! I just wanted the students to show them off and use them as a guide as to what to include in this week's effort. Thanks.
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts - especially the subtraction and addition ones on the Exam Bank link at the side.
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Good copy of story due Friday
If you get a chance, drop in and take a peek at the beautiful butterflies that the class painted. They're flying all over the room! I've added some "butterfly emerging from chrysalis" videos. Have a look!
I've also added this video of a caterpillar undergoing its transformation. The whole process has been sped up quite substantially - apparently it took around 3 hours in reality.
I must congratulate the class on the excellent story writing that was produced last week. This group of third graders has lots of talent! I've sent back last week's stories (with the exception of the stories of 4 people - we ran out of time to go over them today so their stories will go home tomorrow) so that folks at home can see all the wonderful things that I've commented on. Please return the stories (last week's and a good copy of this week's) by Friday. THERE IS NO NEED TO REDO LAST WEEK'S STORY! I just wanted the students to show them off and use them as a guide as to what to include in this week's effort. Thanks.
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts - especially the subtraction and addition ones on the Exam Bank link at the side.
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Good copy of story due Friday
If you get a chance, drop in and take a peek at the beautiful butterflies that the class painted. They're flying all over the room! I've added some "butterfly emerging from chrysalis" videos. Have a look!
I've also added this video of a caterpillar undergoing its transformation. The whole process has been sped up quite substantially - apparently it took around 3 hours in reality.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
April 29, 2010
Word of the day: serene
Reminders:
1. Practise the exam bank questions for Math and Language Arts. (Don't worry about Social Studies and Science.)
2. Spelling test tomorrow
3. "Music and Tell" tomorrow - bring an instrument, a CD, a picture of a musician - or sing something for us!
4. Check out the Goose Cam - that bird sure is patient!
5. Remember library books for tomorrow.
Reminders:
1. Practise the exam bank questions for Math and Language Arts. (Don't worry about Social Studies and Science.)
2. Spelling test tomorrow
3. "Music and Tell" tomorrow - bring an instrument, a CD, a picture of a musician - or sing something for us!
4. Check out the Goose Cam - that bird sure is patient!
5. Remember library books for tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
April 28, 2010
Word of the day: melancholy
I have to apologize for not letting people know what the username and password are for the Exam Bank link. The username is gyrd.jes and the password is oil.
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due
3. Cookie sale
Remember to check out the Goose Cam if you get a chance!
I have to apologize for not letting people know what the username and password are for the Exam Bank link. The username is gyrd.jes and the password is oil.
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due
3. Cookie sale
Remember to check out the Goose Cam if you get a chance!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
April 27, 2010
Word of the day: tranquil
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due Thurday
Your child is bringing home literature on the upcoming Provincial Achievement tests (PATs) today. The note and booklet give some information on the tests, including the types of tests and the dates they are written. We've begun writing some practise PAT questions in Math. Today's math booklets have been sent home - please go over the questions with your child. Your explanations regarding the questions may differ from the ones we talked about in class, but that's okay. We always stress that there often is more than one way to solve a problem, and that good thinkers (which is what good math students are!) should practise finding more than one route to the correct answer.
As well, your child is bringing home a rough draft of a story today. To compliment our preparation for the story writing portion of the PATs, please go over the story with your child, following the guidelines on the back of today's note. Thanks!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due Thurday
Your child is bringing home literature on the upcoming Provincial Achievement tests (PATs) today. The note and booklet give some information on the tests, including the types of tests and the dates they are written. We've begun writing some practise PAT questions in Math. Today's math booklets have been sent home - please go over the questions with your child. Your explanations regarding the questions may differ from the ones we talked about in class, but that's okay. We always stress that there often is more than one way to solve a problem, and that good thinkers (which is what good math students are!) should practise finding more than one route to the correct answer.
As well, your child is bringing home a rough draft of a story today. To compliment our preparation for the story writing portion of the PATs, please go over the story with your child, following the guidelines on the back of today's note. Thanks!
Friday, April 23, 2010
April 23, 2010
Word of the day; bliss
Congratulations to all the sharp eyes in Room 4 - the ones who spotted the clues for this morning's treasure hunt. Some fun!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Check out the Goose Cam!
3. Be nice to the environment! Earth Day is officially over, but its lessons should live on...
Congratulations to all the sharp eyes in Room 4 - the ones who spotted the clues for this morning's treasure hunt. Some fun!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Check out the Goose Cam!
3. Be nice to the environment! Earth Day is officially over, but its lessons should live on...
Thursday, April 22, 2010
April 22, 2010
Word of the day: gilded
Reminders:
1. Spelling test tomorrow
2. Practise math facts
3. Half day tomorrow - Volunteer Appreciation assembly after recess. Volunteers, please attend! All you cookie bakers, art project helpers, ski volunteers, etc. - see you tomorrow in the gym!
4. Dress in the style of the '80s tomorrow.
Happy Earth Day! Thanks to everyone who bikes or walks instead of driving, to everyone who shuts off lights in empty rooms, to everyone who picks up litter, to everyone who recycles ... what a difference we all can make! The following video is designed to celebrate Earth Day. Enjoy!
Reminders:
1. Spelling test tomorrow
2. Practise math facts
3. Half day tomorrow - Volunteer Appreciation assembly after recess. Volunteers, please attend! All you cookie bakers, art project helpers, ski volunteers, etc. - see you tomorrow in the gym!
4. Dress in the style of the '80s tomorrow.
Happy Earth Day! Thanks to everyone who bikes or walks instead of driving, to everyone who shuts off lights in empty rooms, to everyone who picks up litter, to everyone who recycles ... what a difference we all can make! The following video is designed to celebrate Earth Day. Enjoy!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
April 21, 2010
Word of the day: intricate
Congratulations to Angelo and Sarah for their outstanding performance in the Double Dutch challenge in gym today!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due tomorrow
3. Library books for tomorrow
Congratulations to Angelo and Sarah for their outstanding performance in the Double Dutch challenge in gym today!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due tomorrow
3. Library books for tomorrow
Monday, April 19, 2010
April 19, 2010
Word of the day: adjacent
Welcome to the newest addition to Room 4 - Sarah. It's nice to have you back in the fold, Miss H!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Check out the Goose Cam from the links on the side
Pirate joke of the day: Which ocean is the pirate's favourite? The Ahrrctic Ocean, of course.
Welcome to the newest addition to Room 4 - Sarah. It's nice to have you back in the fold, Miss H!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Check out the Goose Cam from the links on the side
Pirate joke of the day: Which ocean is the pirate's favourite? The Ahrrctic Ocean, of course.
Friday, April 16, 2010
April 16, 2010
Word of the day: perimeter
Thanks to the people who brought the neat footwear for today's "Shoe and Tell"!!!
Reminders:
1. Practise multiplication facts
2. Enjoy the lovely weekend!
I've added a video to compliment today's story from Language Arts. (We read a story about a dog who, jealous of the time his owner was spending with a skateboard, secretly buried the skateboard. When his transgression was discovered, it was suggested that his owner teach him how to skateboard so that the dual loves of Dog and Skateboarding would be married.) These dogs are truly amazing! Enjoy!
Thanks to the people who brought the neat footwear for today's "Shoe and Tell"!!!
Reminders:
1. Practise multiplication facts
2. Enjoy the lovely weekend!
I've added a video to compliment today's story from Language Arts. (We read a story about a dog who, jealous of the time his owner was spending with a skateboard, secretly buried the skateboard. When his transgression was discovered, it was suggested that his owner teach him how to skateboard so that the dual loves of Dog and Skateboarding would be married.) These dogs are truly amazing! Enjoy!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
April 15, 2010
Word of the day: serene
Reminders:
1. Spelling test tomorrow
2. Practise times tables
3. Book order due tomorrow
4. We're having a "Shoe and Tell" tomorrow. Any kind of footwear will do - hockey skates, flip flops, baby shoes ... let's see what kind of unusual ideas you can come up with!
I've attached a link to the Edmonton Journal's web cam on the nesting Canada goose. Just click on the "Goose Cam" link at the side. This is an excellent compliment to the Grade Three Life Cycles component from the science curriculum.
Reminders:
1. Spelling test tomorrow
2. Practise times tables
3. Book order due tomorrow
4. We're having a "Shoe and Tell" tomorrow. Any kind of footwear will do - hockey skates, flip flops, baby shoes ... let's see what kind of unusual ideas you can come up with!
I've attached a link to the Edmonton Journal's web cam on the nesting Canada goose. Just click on the "Goose Cam" link at the side. This is an excellent compliment to the Grade Three Life Cycles component from the science curriculum.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
April 13, 2010
Word of the day: tranquil
Congratulations to Ethan and Breanna for perfect completion of today's multiplication challenge. Well done!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Book orders due Friday
I've added another loon video for your evening's entertainment. Enjoy!
Congratulations to Ethan and Breanna for perfect completion of today's multiplication challenge. Well done!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Book orders due Friday
I've added another loon video for your evening's entertainment. Enjoy!
Monday, April 12, 2010
April 12, 2010
Word of the day: bliss (chosen because it's so nice to be back with this lovely crew of third graders again!)
Congratulations to Breanna for getting immunity on today's spelling test. Well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Practise times tables
3. Book order due Friday
For today's Head Scratcher, see if you can figure out why, in the game we played today, you like sweets but not candy, you like fall but not autumn, and you like carrots, broccoli, and apples, but not fruits or vegetables. (If you've already figured out the answer, try playing the game with someone else in your house.)
We talked about loons today, so I dug out this video of their call. Enjoy!
And here's some advice on how to try to imitate the loon's call:
Finally, here's a video of the loon displaying. (We talked about this today, as well.)
Congratulations to Breanna for getting immunity on today's spelling test. Well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Practise times tables
3. Book order due Friday
For today's Head Scratcher, see if you can figure out why, in the game we played today, you like sweets but not candy, you like fall but not autumn, and you like carrots, broccoli, and apples, but not fruits or vegetables. (If you've already figured out the answer, try playing the game with someone else in your house.)
We talked about loons today, so I dug out this video of their call. Enjoy!
And here's some advice on how to try to imitate the loon's call:
Finally, here's a video of the loon displaying. (We talked about this today, as well.)
Thursday, March 25, 2010
March 25, 2010
Word of the day: hexagon
Reminders:
1. Library books, if there are any more out there!
2. Spelling test
3. Practise times tables
4. Twin Day tomorrow
5. Noon dismissal tomorrow
Head Scratcher of the day: A deaf, mute man entered a hardware store. He indicated that he wanted a saw by pretending to saw a piece of wood. Then a blind man entered the store. He wanted a pair of scissors. How did he make the clerk understand what he wanted?
Reminders:
1. Library books, if there are any more out there!
2. Spelling test
3. Practise times tables
4. Twin Day tomorrow
5. Noon dismissal tomorrow
Head Scratcher of the day: A deaf, mute man entered a hardware store. He indicated that he wanted a saw by pretending to saw a piece of wood. Then a blind man entered the store. He wanted a pair of scissors. How did he make the clerk understand what he wanted?
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
March 24, 2010
Word of the day: pentagon
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due
3. Library books due
Head scratcher of the day: What unusual word of seven letters has three u's in it?
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due
3. Library books due
Head scratcher of the day: What unusual word of seven letters has three u's in it?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
March 23, 2010
Word of the day: absurd
Be sure to chat about the amazing science demo the school had this morning. Now we all know what to do if we ever have to brush an elephant's teeth ...
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Dream up some good ideas for the pirate story writing!
Head scratcher of the day: How can you pass your body through a postcard? (Yep, you read it correctly: How can you pass your body through a postcard?) It's possible! Good luck figuring it out! (Hint: you'll need some scissors.)
Just to keep myself practised in attaching videos, I've added the one below. I hope you like it as much as I did!
Be sure to chat about the amazing science demo the school had this morning. Now we all know what to do if we ever have to brush an elephant's teeth ...
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Dream up some good ideas for the pirate story writing!
Head scratcher of the day: How can you pass your body through a postcard? (Yep, you read it correctly: How can you pass your body through a postcard?) It's possible! Good luck figuring it out! (Hint: you'll need some scissors.)
Just to keep myself practised in attaching videos, I've added the one below. I hope you like it as much as I did!
Monday, March 22, 2010
March 22, 2010
Word of the day: Ides of March
Congratulations to Nathan for getting his 5s and 7s for the Mathematical Heavyweights challenge! Now on to the 3 and 6 times tables!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Note (re science activities this week)
4. Get report cards/interview sheets signed and return them
We did a creative thinking activity today to list different things that you associate with circles. The quantity and quality of the ideas were outstanding! Here are some of the ideas that the class came up with:
1. the bottom part of a banjo
2. tire
3. medal
4. yo-yo
5. orange
6. clock
7. bowls
8. hamburger
9. bellybutton
10. earring
11. hockey puck
12. collar
13. yolk of a fried egg
14. glass part of a magnifying glass
15. planets
16. zero
17. iris of an eye
18. lids
19. pizza
20. ponytail holder
21. hula hoop
22. coins
23. Olympic rings
24. buttons
25. centre of a doughnut
The ideas were amazing in their originality and in their number. Pretty impressive stuff!
Head Scratcher of the day: "So I Says..." is a game where you create a joke by having to supply a first name to complete the "So I says" sentence. (Yes, "So I says" is horrible grammar. You have to ignore that part of the game.) An example would be, So I says to the girl standing in the swamp, I says "Marsha, ..."
Try these ones.
1. So I says to the girl blessing the food, I says _______________...
2. So I says to the fellow floating gently on the waves, I says ______________...
3. So I says to the man seasoning the soup, I says ____________ ...
4. So I says to the mand using the PA system, I says ____________ ...
5. So I says to the man learning to tame lions, I says ____________ ...
Congratulations to Nathan for getting his 5s and 7s for the Mathematical Heavyweights challenge! Now on to the 3 and 6 times tables!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Note (re science activities this week)
4. Get report cards/interview sheets signed and return them
We did a creative thinking activity today to list different things that you associate with circles. The quantity and quality of the ideas were outstanding! Here are some of the ideas that the class came up with:
1. the bottom part of a banjo
2. tire
3. medal
4. yo-yo
5. orange
6. clock
7. bowls
8. hamburger
9. bellybutton
10. earring
11. hockey puck
12. collar
13. yolk of a fried egg
14. glass part of a magnifying glass
15. planets
16. zero
17. iris of an eye
18. lids
19. pizza
20. ponytail holder
21. hula hoop
22. coins
23. Olympic rings
24. buttons
25. centre of a doughnut
The ideas were amazing in their originality and in their number. Pretty impressive stuff!
Head Scratcher of the day: "So I Says..." is a game where you create a joke by having to supply a first name to complete the "So I says" sentence. (Yes, "So I says" is horrible grammar. You have to ignore that part of the game.) An example would be, So I says to the girl standing in the swamp, I says "Marsha, ..."
Try these ones.
1. So I says to the girl blessing the food, I says _______________...
2. So I says to the fellow floating gently on the waves, I says ______________...
3. So I says to the man seasoning the soup, I says ____________ ...
4. So I says to the mand using the PA system, I says ____________ ...
5. So I says to the man learning to tame lions, I says ____________ ...
Thursday, March 18, 2010
March 18, 2010
Word of the day: transparent
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling test
3. Library books
Now that it's beginning to be bike season again, it's important to watch out for cyclists. This video is a good reminder to us all to PAY ATTENTION!
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling test
3. Library books
Now that it's beginning to be bike season again, it's important to watch out for cyclists. This video is a good reminder to us all to PAY ATTENTION!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
March 17, 2010
Just in case you thought we worked our fingers to the bone hour after hour here in Room 4, here's some evidence that we have fun sometimes, too. Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Word of the day: emerald
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Get math test signed and return it
We were also doing some creative thinking challenges today, and the topic of using veggies for unusual purposes came up. The video below shows a gentleman who REALLY takes creativity to the highest level. Enjoy!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
March 16, 2010
Word of the day: opaque
Congratulations to our multiplication whiz: Adrian, who has once again correctly finished his multiplication test in UNDER the given time. Super!
Reminders:
1. Practise multiplication facts
2. Wear green tomorrow!
Head Scratcher of the day: When does 1 - 60 = 23?
Congratulations to our multiplication whiz: Adrian, who has once again correctly finished his multiplication test in UNDER the given time. Super!
Reminders:
1. Practise multiplication facts
2. Wear green tomorrow!
Head Scratcher of the day: When does 1 - 60 = 23?
Monday, March 15, 2010
March 15, 2010
Word of the day: octagon
Congratulations to Speedy Adrian, who finished his times tables test in record time today - and did it perfectly, to boot!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Note regarding head lice
We practised playing a card game called Clock today - try it at home!
Head Scratcher of the day: When does 3 + 5 = 1?
Congratulations to Speedy Adrian, who finished his times tables test in record time today - and did it perfectly, to boot!
Reminders:
1. Practise math facts
2. Spelling due Thursday
3. Note regarding head lice
We practised playing a card game called Clock today - try it at home!
Head Scratcher of the day: When does 3 + 5 = 1?
Friday, March 12, 2010
March 12. 2010
Word of the day: translucent
Congratulations to Sally for perfect completion of the 4s and 8s time tables challenge! Well done!
Reminder:
1. Practise times tables!
Head scratcher of the day: When does 1 - 3 = 9?
Congratulations to Sally for perfect completion of the 4s and 8s time tables challenge! Well done!
Reminder:
1. Practise times tables!
Head scratcher of the day: When does 1 - 3 = 9?
Thursday, March 11, 2010
March 11, 2010
Word of the day: hexagon
Congratulations to Ethan, Braeden and Jessa for perfect completion of today's times tables test. Well done!
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Library books
3. Cookie sale
4. Practise times tables
5. Get math test signed and return it (Make sure you go over your mistakes and see where you went wrong - if you had any mistakes!)
We learned how to play Zoom, schwartz, pfigliano today. Try it out at home - remember to say "Zoom," for numbers that are multiples of 6 or that have a 6 in them, and "Schwartz," for numbers that are multiples of 7 or that have a 7 in them. And if you make it to 100, DON'T FORGET TO SAY "PFIGLIANO!"
Head Scratcher of the day: When does 24 + 6 = 1? When 24 hours plus 6 days equals one week. Keep that in mind while you try to explain this math sentence: When does 5 + 5 = 1?
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
March 10, 2010
Word of the day: pentagon
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Cookie sale tomorrow
Head scratcher of the day: A bus with no passengers stops, and five people get on. At the next stop, eight people get on. At the next stop, six people get off. How many people are left on the bus?
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Cookie sale tomorrow
Head scratcher of the day: A bus with no passengers stops, and five people get on. At the next stop, eight people get on. At the next stop, six people get off. How many people are left on the bus?
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
March 9, 2010
Word of the day: absurd
Thanks so much to Severin's mom, Breanna's dad, and Ethan's mom for volunteering to help with the ski program - we really appreciate your help! The ski group I was with today did an awesome job on the slopes - I was really impressed!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Remember ski "stuff" for tomorrow
Head scratcher of the day: What is the beginning of eternity, the end of time and space, the beginning of every end, and the end of every race?
Thanks so much to Severin's mom, Breanna's dad, and Ethan's mom for volunteering to help with the ski program - we really appreciate your help! The ski group I was with today did an awesome job on the slopes - I was really impressed!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Remember ski "stuff" for tomorrow
Head scratcher of the day: What is the beginning of eternity, the end of time and space, the beginning of every end, and the end of every race?
Monday, March 8, 2010
March 8, 2010
Word of the day: copasetic
This was the final day to collect for our school's Haiti fund raiser. We counted the money that our class raised and are very proud of ourselves, as we collected $95.20!! Thanks so much to everyone who supported this great cause!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Math due tomorrow
3. Skiing tomorrow - bring lunch and ski clothing/gear. If you're using sunscreen, please apply it at home.
Homework tip: If anyone is having trouble figuring out the math fractions problems, try drawing a picture of the students. (Just use circles or squares to represent the students.) Draw all 24 students. Then, if you're talking about 1/4 of the students, decide how many groups of students you'll need. (You'll need 4 groups if you're talking about fourths.) Break the students into the 4 groups. Each group will be one fourth. So 1/4 of 24 students is 6 students. Similarly, if you're talking about 1/6 of the students, you'll need to divide the students into 6 groups. If you're talking about 1/8 of the students, you'll need to divide the students into 8 groups. Hopefully the pictures will help!
Head scratcher of the day: Tie a knot in a string by holding one end in each hand and not letting go with either hand. It's possible! See what you can come up with!
This was the final day to collect for our school's Haiti fund raiser. We counted the money that our class raised and are very proud of ourselves, as we collected $95.20!! Thanks so much to everyone who supported this great cause!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due Thursday
2. Math due tomorrow
3. Skiing tomorrow - bring lunch and ski clothing/gear. If you're using sunscreen, please apply it at home.
Homework tip: If anyone is having trouble figuring out the math fractions problems, try drawing a picture of the students. (Just use circles or squares to represent the students.) Draw all 24 students. Then, if you're talking about 1/4 of the students, decide how many groups of students you'll need. (You'll need 4 groups if you're talking about fourths.) Break the students into the 4 groups. Each group will be one fourth. So 1/4 of 24 students is 6 students. Similarly, if you're talking about 1/6 of the students, you'll need to divide the students into 6 groups. If you're talking about 1/8 of the students, you'll need to divide the students into 8 groups. Hopefully the pictures will help!
Head scratcher of the day: Tie a knot in a string by holding one end in each hand and not letting go with either hand. It's possible! See what you can come up with!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
March 4, 2010
Word of the day: transparent
Congratulations to Megan for finishing her final times tables test - and getting 100% on it! You're joining the teaching ranks now, Megan! Well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling test tomorrow
2. Practise times tables
3. Our final day to collect money for Haiti will be next Monday.
4. Library book exchange is tomorrow afternoon
Head Scratcher of the day: Someone dared me to jump over a pencil on the floor. I could not, even though I'm a good jumper. How come I wasn't able to?
Congratulations to Megan for finishing her final times tables test - and getting 100% on it! You're joining the teaching ranks now, Megan! Well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling test tomorrow
2. Practise times tables
3. Our final day to collect money for Haiti will be next Monday.
4. Library book exchange is tomorrow afternoon
Head Scratcher of the day: Someone dared me to jump over a pencil on the floor. I could not, even though I'm a good jumper. How come I wasn't able to?
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
March 3, 2010
Word of the day: congruent
Congratulations to Sally today for perfect completion of the 3 and 6 times tables test! Now it's on to the 4 and 8 times tables - study hard!
Reminders:
1. Book order due tomorrow
2. Practise times tables
3. Coins for Haiti
Head Scratcher for the day: If Albert's peacock jumps over the fence onto Edward's property and lays an egg there, whose egg is it?
Congratulations to Sally today for perfect completion of the 3 and 6 times tables test! Now it's on to the 4 and 8 times tables - study hard!
Reminders:
1. Book order due tomorrow
2. Practise times tables
3. Coins for Haiti
Head Scratcher for the day: If Albert's peacock jumps over the fence onto Edward's property and lays an egg there, whose egg is it?
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
March 2, 2010
Word of the day: schooner
Congratulations to Adrian, Breanna, and Jessa for perfect completion of today's times tables challenge! Super work! Adrian, this means that you have completed ALL the times tables facts -VERY impressive! You'll have to don a tie and join the teacher tomorrow - we have a special job for you! Hold your breath!
Reminders:
1. Practise multiplication facts
2. Coins for Haiti
3. Math sheet due tomorrow
4. Book order due Thursday
Head Scratcher of the day: Among my siblings, I am the thinnest. I am in Paris, but I am not in France. Who am I? (Of course, to solve this, it helps to remember what siblings are ... If you're stuck, try logging on to www.idictionary.ca ).
Congratulations to Adrian, Breanna, and Jessa for perfect completion of today's times tables challenge! Super work! Adrian, this means that you have completed ALL the times tables facts -VERY impressive! You'll have to don a tie and join the teacher tomorrow - we have a special job for you! Hold your breath!
Reminders:
1. Practise multiplication facts
2. Coins for Haiti
3. Math sheet due tomorrow
4. Book order due Thursday
Head Scratcher of the day: Among my siblings, I am the thinnest. I am in Paris, but I am not in France. Who am I? (Of course, to solve this, it helps to remember what siblings are ... If you're stuck, try logging on to www.idictionary.ca ).
Monday, March 1, 2010
March 1, 2010
Word of the day: osculate
Congratulations to Adrian, Braeden, and Severin for winning Immunity on today's spelling test. Great job! Congratulations, too, to Megan and Ethan for perfect completion of the multiplication check -up today. Our class is really getting good at times tables!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Book order due Thursday
3. Spelling due Thursday
Ski notes went home today, outlining some details of next week's ski program. Any parents who would like to be added to the volunteer list for skiing, please know that you will be welcome and appreciated! Just let me know asap if you're coming.
Head scratcher of the day: What gets wetter as it dries?
Congratulations to Adrian, Braeden, and Severin for winning Immunity on today's spelling test. Great job! Congratulations, too, to Megan and Ethan for perfect completion of the multiplication check -up today. Our class is really getting good at times tables!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Book order due Thursday
3. Spelling due Thursday
Ski notes went home today, outlining some details of next week's ski program. Any parents who would like to be added to the volunteer list for skiing, please know that you will be welcome and appreciated! Just let me know asap if you're coming.
Head scratcher of the day: What gets wetter as it dries?
These optical illusions (below) are cool. Check them out!
http://www.geoec.org/lessons/grade6.html
Friday, February 26, 2010
February 26, 2010
Word of the day: embrace
For the second week in a row, the ENTIRE class earned 100% on the week's spelling test. Awesome!
Congratulations today to Severin and Braeden for perfect completion of today's math facts test. Now it's on the the 4 and 8 times tables for you, gentlemen!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables
2. Coins for Haiti
3. Help the Canadians finish strong at the Olympics - cheer hard!
Head scratcher of the day: Here's a way to turn any number into a four. Try it!
1. Pick a number.
2. Spell it out.
3. Count the letters.
4. Spell that number of letters out in words. (For example, if the number of letters is six, spell s-i-x.)
5. Keep repeating steps 3 and 4.
No matter what number you start with, you'll always end up with the number four!
For the second week in a row, the ENTIRE class earned 100% on the week's spelling test. Awesome!
Congratulations today to Severin and Braeden for perfect completion of today's math facts test. Now it's on the the 4 and 8 times tables for you, gentlemen!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables
2. Coins for Haiti
3. Help the Canadians finish strong at the Olympics - cheer hard!
Head scratcher of the day: Here's a way to turn any number into a four. Try it!
1. Pick a number.
2. Spell it out.
3. Count the letters.
4. Spell that number of letters out in words. (For example, if the number of letters is six, spell s-i-x.)
5. Keep repeating steps 3 and 4.
No matter what number you start with, you'll always end up with the number four!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
February 25, 2010
Word of the day: cherub
Congratulations to Breanna and Adrian for perfect completion of today's times tables quiz. Excellent!
Students, try out the "Hole-in-the-hand" trick we looked at this morning. Remember, just roll a piece of paper into a tube, hold the tube up to your eye, then place your other hand along the tube, keeping both eyes wide open. Cool, huh?
Reminders:
1. Get math test signed and returned
2. Spelling test tomorrow
3. Dress like a hippie tomorrow (optional)
4. Half day tomorrow (staff professional development in the afternoon)
5. Keep practising the times tables!
6. Keep cheering for Canada!
Head scratcher of the day: Take a look at this equation: 5 + 5 + 5 = 550. It's not right, is it? But you can MAKE it right by adding just one line. Figure out where that line should go.
Congratulations to Breanna and Adrian for perfect completion of today's times tables quiz. Excellent!
Students, try out the "Hole-in-the-hand" trick we looked at this morning. Remember, just roll a piece of paper into a tube, hold the tube up to your eye, then place your other hand along the tube, keeping both eyes wide open. Cool, huh?
Reminders:
1. Get math test signed and returned
2. Spelling test tomorrow
3. Dress like a hippie tomorrow (optional)
4. Half day tomorrow (staff professional development in the afternoon)
5. Keep practising the times tables!
6. Keep cheering for Canada!
Head scratcher of the day: Take a look at this equation: 5 + 5 + 5 = 550. It's not right, is it? But you can MAKE it right by adding just one line. Figure out where that line should go.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
February 24, 2010
Word of the day: cherish
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due tomorrow
3. Dress like a hippie Friday (optional)
4. Half day Friday (teachers' professional development in the afternoon)
5. Coins for Haiti
6. Cheer for Canada!
Head Scratcher of the day: Betty wanted to buy a book on fossils. The book's price was $14.95. She had $15.00 but she could not afford the book. Do you know why?
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables
2. Spelling due tomorrow
3. Dress like a hippie Friday (optional)
4. Half day Friday (teachers' professional development in the afternoon)
5. Coins for Haiti
6. Cheer for Canada!
Head Scratcher of the day: Betty wanted to buy a book on fossils. The book's price was $14.95. She had $15.00 but she could not afford the book. Do you know why?
Monday, February 22, 2010
February 22, 2010
Word of the day: invincible
Congratulations to Braeden, Adrian, and Jessa for winning Immunity on today's spelling test. Well done! Congratulations, too, to Adrian for perfect completion of the 3 and 6 times tables. Amazing work! There are only 3 more facts for you to learn, now, Adrian: 4 x 4 = 16, 8 x 4 =32, and 8 x 8 = 64. That's all there is, there ain't no more! (Bad grammar, good math!)
Thanks to Principal T, as well, for the 5 extra recess minutes. You're great, Breanna!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables.
2. Spelling due Thursday.
Head Scratcher of the day: A truck is about to go under a bridge. Its load is 5 cm higher than the clearance of the bridge. (In other words, if the truck tries to under the bridge, its load will bonk into the bridge.) It is a very heavy load, so it cannot be unloaded. How can it pass under the bridge in a quick and simple way?
Congratulations to Braeden, Adrian, and Jessa for winning Immunity on today's spelling test. Well done! Congratulations, too, to Adrian for perfect completion of the 3 and 6 times tables. Amazing work! There are only 3 more facts for you to learn, now, Adrian: 4 x 4 = 16, 8 x 4 =32, and 8 x 8 = 64. That's all there is, there ain't no more! (Bad grammar, good math!)
Thanks to Principal T, as well, for the 5 extra recess minutes. You're great, Breanna!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables.
2. Spelling due Thursday.
Head Scratcher of the day: A truck is about to go under a bridge. Its load is 5 cm higher than the clearance of the bridge. (In other words, if the truck tries to under the bridge, its load will bonk into the bridge.) It is a very heavy load, so it cannot be unloaded. How can it pass under the bridge in a quick and simple way?
Friday, February 19, 2010
February 19, 2010
Word of the day: prognosticate
Congratulations to Breanna for perfect completion of the 5 and 7 times tables. Now it's on to the 3 and 6 multiplication facts!
Breanna needs double congrats today, as she was chosen to be Principal for a Day for Monday! Whoohoo! When should we start our campaign for free ice cream at recess, Principal T?!
Now for the Ultra Uber Never Before Been Seen EVER in the History of Education Announcement. If you're not already sitting, please sit down now. EVERYONE GOT 15 OUT OF 15 ON TODAY'S SPELLING TEST!!! In all my 65 years of teaching, I've never seen such a great result. Amazing!
Thanks so much to Ethan's mom and Jessa's mom for helping out with today's mini Olympics. We really appreciate your help!!!
Reminders for today:
1. Practise the times tables.
2. Coins for Haiti
Thursday, February 18, 2010
February 18, 2010
Word of the day: fragile
Congratulations to Ethan and Jessa for perfect completion of today's multiplication tests! Well done!
Congratulations, too, to Breanna for her wonderful performance as part of today's gymnastics demonstration! You rock, Breanna!
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Bring a labeled mug for hot chocolate during the afternoon mini-Olympics
3. Coins for Haiti
4. Practise the times tables
Congratulations to Ethan and Jessa for perfect completion of today's multiplication tests! Well done!
Congratulations, too, to Breanna for her wonderful performance as part of today's gymnastics demonstration! You rock, Breanna!
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Bring a labeled mug for hot chocolate during the afternoon mini-Olympics
3. Coins for Haiti
4. Practise the times tables
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
February 17, 2010
Word of the day: congruent
Congratulations to Braeden and Jessa for perfect completion of today's times tables test. Your next challenge is the 3 and 6 test. Remember the hints for these include:
3 x 3 = 9 3 x 4 is 12 (1-2-3-4) 3 x 6 is 18 (That's the one we always draw, using tallies.)
3 x 8 is 24 (3 x 8, 8 x 3, 6 x 4, 4 x 6: they all equal 24) 6 x 6 is 36; you get three sixes 1-2-3
6 x 8 is 48 (say that fact at least 5 times) 6 x 4 is 24 (6 x 4, 4 x 6, 8 x 3, 3 x 8: they all equal 24)
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Library books
2. Practise the times tables.
2. Coins for Haiti
4. Math sheet due
5. Spelling due
We are looking for 2 parents to volunteer to help out with our Olympic events this Friday afternoon. The parents will be responsible for taking a team of children from one event to the next. If you are willing and able to help out, please let me know by phoning me at 4447, ext. 204 (there is a message machine attached to this number if you can't reach me), by email at lindmorg@gyrd.ab.ca or by jotting a note in your child's agenda. Thanks! Please note that students have been asked to bring a labeled, non-breakable cup for this event on Friday afternoon. The cups will be used for hot chocolate.
Congratulations to Braeden and Jessa for perfect completion of today's times tables test. Your next challenge is the 3 and 6 test. Remember the hints for these include:
3 x 3 = 9 3 x 4 is 12 (1-2-3-4) 3 x 6 is 18 (That's the one we always draw, using tallies.)
3 x 8 is 24 (3 x 8, 8 x 3, 6 x 4, 4 x 6: they all equal 24) 6 x 6 is 36; you get three sixes 1-2-3
6 x 8 is 48 (say that fact at least 5 times) 6 x 4 is 24 (6 x 4, 4 x 6, 8 x 3, 3 x 8: they all equal 24)
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Library books
2. Practise the times tables.
2. Coins for Haiti
4. Math sheet due
5. Spelling due
We are looking for 2 parents to volunteer to help out with our Olympic events this Friday afternoon. The parents will be responsible for taking a team of children from one event to the next. If you are willing and able to help out, please let me know by phoning me at 4447, ext. 204 (there is a message machine attached to this number if you can't reach me), by email at lindmorg@gyrd.ab.ca or by jotting a note in your child's agenda. Thanks! Please note that students have been asked to bring a labeled, non-breakable cup for this event on Friday afternoon. The cups will be used for hot chocolate.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
February 16, 2010
Word of the day: schooner
Congratulations to Braeden for perfect completion of today's spelling test. You've earned Immunity this week AGAIN, Braeden. Well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due this Thursday.
2. Practise times tables
3. Head Scratcher due tomorrow
4. Math sheet due tomorrow
5. Coins for Haiti
The school's student council is holding a "Principal for a Day" contest this week. Tomorrow everyone is invited (but not required) to dress like Mr. Blanchette-Dubé, as part of the contest's activities.
Congratulations to Braeden for perfect completion of today's spelling test. You've earned Immunity this week AGAIN, Braeden. Well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling due this Thursday.
2. Practise times tables
3. Head Scratcher due tomorrow
4. Math sheet due tomorrow
5. Coins for Haiti
The school's student council is holding a "Principal for a Day" contest this week. Tomorrow everyone is invited (but not required) to dress like Mr. Blanchette-Dubé, as part of the contest's activities.
Friday, February 12, 2010
February 12, 2010
Word of the day: osculate
Congratulations to Megan for perfect completion of the 5 and 7 times tables test! Well done!
We've done a preliminary count of the coins donated by the class for the Haiti relief effort. To date, we've raised over $66.00! Amazing! Thanks to everyone who has supported this very worthwhile cause.
Thanks, too, for all the TLC the staff here at JES received this week. Parents, you are amazing. All of your generous, thoughtful, and creative efforts - from decorating to recess treats to the Friday meal to the gifts to playground supervision - are truly appreciated. You're the best!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables!
2. The high school is hosting a video of the opening ceremonies for the Olympics this evening. The event will be shown on a large projection screen in the gym. Hot dogs and hot chocolate will be served. Proceeds will benefit Haiti relief organizations.
3. Please remember that there is no school Monday, due to the Family Day holiday.
Congratulations to Megan for perfect completion of the 5 and 7 times tables test! Well done!
We've done a preliminary count of the coins donated by the class for the Haiti relief effort. To date, we've raised over $66.00! Amazing! Thanks to everyone who has supported this very worthwhile cause.
Thanks, too, for all the TLC the staff here at JES received this week. Parents, you are amazing. All of your generous, thoughtful, and creative efforts - from decorating to recess treats to the Friday meal to the gifts to playground supervision - are truly appreciated. You're the best!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables!
2. The high school is hosting a video of the opening ceremonies for the Olympics this evening. The event will be shown on a large projection screen in the gym. Hot dogs and hot chocolate will be served. Proceeds will benefit Haiti relief organizations.
3. Please remember that there is no school Monday, due to the Family Day holiday.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
February 11, 2010
Word of the day: embrace
Congratulations to Severin for learning the 5 and 7 times tables so well. Now it's on to the 3 and 6 times tables, Mr. G.!
Reminders:
1. Practise those times tables!
2. Spelling test tomorrow
3. Coins for Haiti
4. Note re: the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games
5. Library books
6. Valentines exchange tomorrow afternoon
7. Math sheet due tomorrow
Abhigya has figure out Tuesday's Head Scratcher, but we're giving everyone else another day to work on it. Good luck!
Congratulations to Severin for learning the 5 and 7 times tables so well. Now it's on to the 3 and 6 times tables, Mr. G.!
Reminders:
1. Practise those times tables!
2. Spelling test tomorrow
3. Coins for Haiti
4. Note re: the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games
5. Library books
6. Valentines exchange tomorrow afternoon
7. Math sheet due tomorrow
Abhigya has figure out Tuesday's Head Scratcher, but we're giving everyone else another day to work on it. Good luck!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
February 10, 2010
Word of the day: cherub
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables.
2. Coins for Haiti
3. School dance is tomorrow from 3:30 to 4:30. Admission is $1.00. Hope to see you there!
4. Math sheet is due tomorrow. Remember to be crystal clear on what the problem is asking, and to draw a picture if you are stuck.
We've been working on counting by 10's and 100's, thenrounding off to the nearest 10 and to the nearest 100 in math. Try some practise questions at home.
Nobody has solved yesterday's Head Scratcher. Will you be the first to get the answer?!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables.
2. Coins for Haiti
3. School dance is tomorrow from 3:30 to 4:30. Admission is $1.00. Hope to see you there!
4. Math sheet is due tomorrow. Remember to be crystal clear on what the problem is asking, and to draw a picture if you are stuck.
We've been working on counting by 10's and 100's, thenrounding off to the nearest 10 and to the nearest 100 in math. Try some practise questions at home.
Nobody has solved yesterday's Head Scratcher. Will you be the first to get the answer?!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
February 9, 2010
Word of the day: cherish
Congratulations to Adrian for blazing the trail in multiplication facts! (Adrian got his 5 and 7 times tables test completed with perfection today - great stuff!) Everyone else is improving every day - soon the class will be jam-packed with genius!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables.
2. Coins for Haiti donations will be gratefully accepted!
3. Math problem sheet - due tomorrow
4. Valentine's Day note - We'll have a Valentine party/exchange during the latter part of this Friday afternoon. The note lists the names of all the students in the class. Anyone who brings Valentines should bring one for everyone on the list. This helps avoid hard feelings. As well, if anyone would like to send a snack for the party, that would be great.
Head Scratcher: See if you can figure out what is unusual about the following paragraph.
How quickly can you find out what is unusual about this paragraph? It looks so ordinary that you would think that nothing was wrong with it at all; and in fact, nothing is. But it is unusual. Why? If you study it and think about it you may find out, but I am not going to assist you in any way. You must do it without coaching. Not doubt if you work at it for long, it will dawn on you. I don't know. Now, go to work and try your luck.
Congratulations to Adrian for blazing the trail in multiplication facts! (Adrian got his 5 and 7 times tables test completed with perfection today - great stuff!) Everyone else is improving every day - soon the class will be jam-packed with genius!
Reminders:
1. Practise times tables.
2. Coins for Haiti donations will be gratefully accepted!
3. Math problem sheet - due tomorrow
4. Valentine's Day note - We'll have a Valentine party/exchange during the latter part of this Friday afternoon. The note lists the names of all the students in the class. Anyone who brings Valentines should bring one for everyone on the list. This helps avoid hard feelings. As well, if anyone would like to send a snack for the party, that would be great.
Head Scratcher: See if you can figure out what is unusual about the following paragraph.
How quickly can you find out what is unusual about this paragraph? It looks so ordinary that you would think that nothing was wrong with it at all; and in fact, nothing is. But it is unusual. Why? If you study it and think about it you may find out, but I am not going to assist you in any way. You must do it without coaching. Not doubt if you work at it for long, it will dawn on you. I don't know. Now, go to work and try your luck.
Monday, February 8, 2010
February 8, 2010
Word of the day: adore
Thanks to Megan for kick-starting our "Coins for Haiti" fund raising campaign. (Megan raided her piggy bank to bring her generous donation to the class this morning. Way to go, Miss H!)
A parent from another class approached me this morning to tell me that she had witnessed the Canadian women looking at the pictures our class made for the Olympic team. (We had made pictures for each of the players and displayed them at the arena for the Wednesday night game.) Apparently, the ladies LOVED the drawings! Each player was pointing out her picture to the others, one newscaster was commenting on them, and the coach even took them all down to keep! It's nice to know that our students' artwork and creativity is being apprecitated - as well it should be. Rock on, Grade 23!
Reminders:
1. Spelling is due this Thursday.
2. Practise the times tables!
3. Contributions to "Coins for Haiti" will be gratefully accepted.
Head scratcher of the day: How much dirt can you take out of a hole that is 5 metres wide and 5 metres deep?
Thanks to Megan for kick-starting our "Coins for Haiti" fund raising campaign. (Megan raided her piggy bank to bring her generous donation to the class this morning. Way to go, Miss H!)
A parent from another class approached me this morning to tell me that she had witnessed the Canadian women looking at the pictures our class made for the Olympic team. (We had made pictures for each of the players and displayed them at the arena for the Wednesday night game.) Apparently, the ladies LOVED the drawings! Each player was pointing out her picture to the others, one newscaster was commenting on them, and the coach even took them all down to keep! It's nice to know that our students' artwork and creativity is being apprecitated - as well it should be. Rock on, Grade 23!
Reminders:
1. Spelling is due this Thursday.
2. Practise the times tables!
3. Contributions to "Coins for Haiti" will be gratefully accepted.
Head scratcher of the day: How much dirt can you take out of a hole that is 5 metres wide and 5 metres deep?
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
February 2, 2010
Word of the day: prognosticate (Students, tell someone at home about the cuddley prognosticator you had your picture taken with today.)
Congratulations to Megan, Adrian, and Breanna for perfect completion of the 9 and 2 times tables test. Now on to the 5 and 7 times tables!
For the 5 times table, count nickels. For the 7 times tables, remember the rhymes:
7x8 is 56 5-6-7-8
7x7 is 49 49 is really fine.
7x6 is 42 I know that, now how 'bout you?
7x4 is 28 Say that number, don't be late.
7x3 is 21 21 and now you're done - with the 7 times table.
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test. (Remember that an "e" or and "i" after a "g" almost always make the g sound like "j". An exception to this rule is the word giggle.)
2. Practise the times tables!
3. Students are dismissed at noon tomorrow. School will resume Monday, February 8.
4. The Olympic hockey team is playing Hinton tomorrow evening. This is a great chance for everyone to see some inspirational young athletes!
Head scratcher of the day: What has four legs but only one foot?
Congratulations to Megan, Adrian, and Breanna for perfect completion of the 9 and 2 times tables test. Now on to the 5 and 7 times tables!
For the 5 times table, count nickels. For the 7 times tables, remember the rhymes:
7x8 is 56 5-6-7-8
7x7 is 49 49 is really fine.
7x6 is 42 I know that, now how 'bout you?
7x4 is 28 Say that number, don't be late.
7x3 is 21 21 and now you're done - with the 7 times table.
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test. (Remember that an "e" or and "i" after a "g" almost always make the g sound like "j". An exception to this rule is the word giggle.)
2. Practise the times tables!
3. Students are dismissed at noon tomorrow. School will resume Monday, February 8.
4. The Olympic hockey team is playing Hinton tomorrow evening. This is a great chance for everyone to see some inspirational young athletes!
Head scratcher of the day: What has four legs but only one foot?
Monday, February 1, 2010
February 1, 2010
Word of the day: fragile
Congratulations to Braeden who (again!) earned immunity on today's spelling challenge!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables!
2. Since school will be dismissed for the week this Wednesday at noon (to allow teachers to attend the teachers' convention in Edmonton), the spelling test will be Wednesday this week and the spelling homework is due tomorrow.
3. The monthly newsletter and a note regarding next week's dance is coming home today.
The Canadian Olympic Women's team is in town for the week - practising at the arena. They have a practise today from 3:30-5:00. They'll be playing an exhibition game vs Hinton at 6pm on Wednesday. Admission to the game is $5.00. Children under 12 are free. Proceeds go to support the Jasper Minor Sports Player Assistance Fund.
Head Scratcher of the day: A horse is tied to a 5 metre long rope in front of an old barn. Seven metres behing the horse is a bale of hay. Without breaking the rope, the horse is able to reach the hay. How is this possible?
Congratulations to Braeden who (again!) earned immunity on today's spelling challenge!
Reminders:
1. Practise the times tables!
2. Since school will be dismissed for the week this Wednesday at noon (to allow teachers to attend the teachers' convention in Edmonton), the spelling test will be Wednesday this week and the spelling homework is due tomorrow.
3. The monthly newsletter and a note regarding next week's dance is coming home today.
The Canadian Olympic Women's team is in town for the week - practising at the arena. They have a practise today from 3:30-5:00. They'll be playing an exhibition game vs Hinton at 6pm on Wednesday. Admission to the game is $5.00. Children under 12 are free. Proceeds go to support the Jasper Minor Sports Player Assistance Fund.
Head Scratcher of the day: A horse is tied to a 5 metre long rope in front of an old barn. Seven metres behing the horse is a bale of hay. Without breaking the rope, the horse is able to reach the hay. How is this possible?
Friday, January 29, 2010
January 29, 2010
Word of the day: cease
Congratulations to Sally and Abhigya for perfect completion of today's math facts test - super!
Reminders:
1. Practise those times tables!
2. There will be a dance, sponsored by the school's student council, next Thursday after school, from 3:30 to 4:30. Admission to the dance is $1.00. Funds raised will be given to Haiti relief efforts. We need a parent volunteer to attend the dance as a chaperon. If you'd like to attend the dance, please let me know. (Younger siblings are welcome to attend, as long as they're accompanied by a parent.)
Head Scratcher of the day: What is so fragile that you break it when you say its name?
Congratulations to Sally and Abhigya for perfect completion of today's math facts test - super!
Reminders:
1. Practise those times tables!
2. There will be a dance, sponsored by the school's student council, next Thursday after school, from 3:30 to 4:30. Admission to the dance is $1.00. Funds raised will be given to Haiti relief efforts. We need a parent volunteer to attend the dance as a chaperon. If you'd like to attend the dance, please let me know. (Younger siblings are welcome to attend, as long as they're accompanied by a parent.)
Head Scratcher of the day: What is so fragile that you break it when you say its name?
Thursday, January 28, 2010
January 28, 2010
Word of the day: dumb
Congratulations to Jessa and Braeden for perfect completion of today's timed facts test. On to the 7 and 5 times tables, you two!
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test.
2. Practise times tables.
2. Skating - bring skates, helmets, and appropriate clothing.
3. Cookie sale.
4. Library books.
The school will be presenting their Peter Puffin songs in concert tomorrow. The concert starts at 1:30 in the gym. Everybody is welcome.
Our Show and Tell theme for tomorrow is Cuddley and Tell - bring whatever stuffed critter or object you'd like to share with the class.
Mrs. Sawka's Grade Six class has initiated a fund raiser for Haiti. Students and staff will have the opportunity to donate spare change to help support the rebuilding effort in Haiti. Students can bring their coins to our class at any time - we'll have a classroom bucket that we'll try to fill with donations.
Head Scratcher of the day: How can you stand behind a friend when that friend is standing behind you?
Congratulations to Jessa and Braeden for perfect completion of today's timed facts test. On to the 7 and 5 times tables, you two!
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test.
2. Practise times tables.
2. Skating - bring skates, helmets, and appropriate clothing.
3. Cookie sale.
4. Library books.
The school will be presenting their Peter Puffin songs in concert tomorrow. The concert starts at 1:30 in the gym. Everybody is welcome.
Our Show and Tell theme for tomorrow is Cuddley and Tell - bring whatever stuffed critter or object you'd like to share with the class.
Mrs. Sawka's Grade Six class has initiated a fund raiser for Haiti. Students and staff will have the opportunity to donate spare change to help support the rebuilding effort in Haiti. Students can bring their coins to our class at any time - we'll have a classroom bucket that we'll try to fill with donations.
Head Scratcher of the day: How can you stand behind a friend when that friend is standing behind you?
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
January 27, 2010
Word of the day: personification
Reminders:
1. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
2. Spelling is due tomorrow.
3. The Peter Puffin concert is tonight at 7:00 in the gym.
Head Scratcher of the day: What is the next letter in the following sequence. JFMAM. (Actually, there should be 7 more letters following the ones that are listed.) Think hard!
Reminders:
1. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
2. Spelling is due tomorrow.
3. The Peter Puffin concert is tonight at 7:00 in the gym.
Head Scratcher of the day: What is the next letter in the following sequence. JFMAM. (Actually, there should be 7 more letters following the ones that are listed.) Think hard!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
January 26, 2010
Word of the day: subtle
BIG FAT Congratulations today to Severin for perfect completion of the 9 and 2 times tables test!!!! Amazing stuff! There are lots of others perched on the brink of getting the same thing done soon - practise hard, everyone! And thanks for blazing the trail, Severin!
Reminders:
1. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables. Then practise them some more. Then repractise them. Then practise them again. Then review your practise ...
2. Book orders are due Friday.
3. Peter Puffin concert tomorrow night.
Head Scratcher: What is the next letter in the following sequence? OTTFFSS
BIG FAT Congratulations today to Severin for perfect completion of the 9 and 2 times tables test!!!! Amazing stuff! There are lots of others perched on the brink of getting the same thing done soon - practise hard, everyone! And thanks for blazing the trail, Severin!
Reminders:
1. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables. Then practise them some more. Then repractise them. Then practise them again. Then review your practise ...
2. Book orders are due Friday.
3. Peter Puffin concert tomorrow night.
Head Scratcher: What is the next letter in the following sequence? OTTFFSS
Monday, January 25, 2010
January 25, 2010
Word of the day: contagious
Jessa, Brianna, and Megan: great coordination in our skipping activities in gym today!
I've added a new link at the side. It's called Spelling City - look for it right at the top of the list of links. If you go to the site and add the spelling words for this week, the site will set up games and activities for the students. It's pretty cool - check it out if you get a minute.
Reminders:
1. Spelling homework is due Thursday.
2. Book orders are due Friday.
3. A Peter Puffin note went home today.
4. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
Head Scratcher: "If you give me food I will grow. If you give me water, I will die. Who or what am I?"
Students, you can ask your parents this riddle, too: "What do yawning, laughing, and the chicken pox have in common?"
Jessa, Brianna, and Megan: great coordination in our skipping activities in gym today!
I've added a new link at the side. It's called Spelling City - look for it right at the top of the list of links. If you go to the site and add the spelling words for this week, the site will set up games and activities for the students. It's pretty cool - check it out if you get a minute.
Reminders:
1. Spelling homework is due Thursday.
2. Book orders are due Friday.
3. A Peter Puffin note went home today.
4. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
Head Scratcher: "If you give me food I will grow. If you give me water, I will die. Who or what am I?"
Students, you can ask your parents this riddle, too: "What do yawning, laughing, and the chicken pox have in common?"
Friday, January 22, 2010
January 22, 2010
Word of the day: concur
Reminders:
1. Practise those 9 and 2 times tables! We'll be starting the official timed tests for these on Monday. There are lots of math games on the links (see the column at the left) that should be helpful in everyone's quest for math mastery.
Reminders:
1. Practise those 9 and 2 times tables! We'll be starting the official timed tests for these on Monday. There are lots of math games on the links (see the column at the left) that should be helpful in everyone's quest for math mastery.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
January 21, 2010
Word of the day: enigma
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
3. Skates and helmets.
4. Wacky Hair Day
5. Noon dismissal
Head Scratcher of the day: A woman had two sons, both born on the same day of the same year, yet the two boys were not twins. Neither was adopted, either. How is this possible?
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test
2. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
3. Skates and helmets.
4. Wacky Hair Day
5. Noon dismissal
Head Scratcher of the day: A woman had two sons, both born on the same day of the same year, yet the two boys were not twins. Neither was adopted, either. How is this possible?
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
January 20, 2010
Word of the day: precocious
Reminders:
1. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables. It's ESSENTIAL that students memorize these important math facts. (Remember to do some questions like: 9 x __ = 36.)
2. Wacky Hair Day is this Friday. Participation is, of course, optional.
3. There will be a noon dismissal this Friday to allow teachers to attend a professional development session.
4. Library book exchange will be tomorrow morning this week.
5. Please bring skates and helmets for Friday morning. The class will be skating immediatey following the "Olympic Parade" (see yesterday's Family Head note.
Sorry about the "Head Scratcher" from yesterday. It SHOULD have read "Rearrange the letters in the words 'new door' to make one word. We talked about the answer this morning, so students can give their parents some clues about the answer. Here's a new challenge for today: "Forward I'm heavy. Backward I'm not. What am I?" (There, I think I've got that one right!)
Students, if you remember how to set up the phone book challenge, show your parents. Let me know if it works!
Reminders:
1. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables. It's ESSENTIAL that students memorize these important math facts. (Remember to do some questions like: 9 x __ = 36.)
2. Wacky Hair Day is this Friday. Participation is, of course, optional.
3. There will be a noon dismissal this Friday to allow teachers to attend a professional development session.
4. Library book exchange will be tomorrow morning this week.
5. Please bring skates and helmets for Friday morning. The class will be skating immediatey following the "Olympic Parade" (see yesterday's Family Head note.
Sorry about the "Head Scratcher" from yesterday. It SHOULD have read "Rearrange the letters in the words 'new door' to make one word. We talked about the answer this morning, so students can give their parents some clues about the answer. Here's a new challenge for today: "Forward I'm heavy. Backward I'm not. What am I?" (There, I think I've got that one right!)
Students, if you remember how to set up the phone book challenge, show your parents. Let me know if it works!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
January 19, 2010
Word of the day: Janus (Students, tell your parents why Janus would have to spend twice as much time brushing his teeth...)
Congratulations to Jessa, Brianna, and Ethan for perfect completion of today's math speed test.
Reminders:
1. Our school will be participating in a parade through Jasper's core this Friday morning, beginning at 10:00 am. Family heads are bringing a note home today that gives more information about this event.
2. Please return skating notes asap - remember that the class is going to the arena Friday morning, right after the parade to celebrate the Olympics.
3. Practise those 9 and 2 times tables!
Here's a "Head Scratcher" to keep everybody thinking: "Rearrange the following letters to make one word." Good luck!
Congratulations to Jessa, Brianna, and Ethan for perfect completion of today's math speed test.
Reminders:
1. Our school will be participating in a parade through Jasper's core this Friday morning, beginning at 10:00 am. Family heads are bringing a note home today that gives more information about this event.
2. Please return skating notes asap - remember that the class is going to the arena Friday morning, right after the parade to celebrate the Olympics.
3. Practise those 9 and 2 times tables!
Here's a "Head Scratcher" to keep everybody thinking: "Rearrange the following letters to make one word." Good luck!
Monday, January 18, 2010
January 18, 2010
Word of the day: resume
Congratulations to Severin for winning Spelling Immunity this morning! Well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling homework is due Thursday.
2. Skating notes need to be signed and returned ASAP.
3. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
Congratulations to Severin for winning Spelling Immunity this morning! Well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling homework is due Thursday.
2. Skating notes need to be signed and returned ASAP.
3. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
Friday, January 15, 2010
January 15, 2010
Word of the day: cease
Reminders:
1. Please return the ski forms and payment ASAP. Thanks.
2. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
It became apparent, when we were cross-country skiing, that several people in the class cannot tie their own shoes. Parents, please check to see if your child is able to tie shoelaces; if they can't, it would be a good idea to spend some time showing them how to do this. Thanks!
Have a great weekend!
Reminders:
1. Please return the ski forms and payment ASAP. Thanks.
2. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables.
It became apparent, when we were cross-country skiing, that several people in the class cannot tie their own shoes. Parents, please check to see if your child is able to tie shoelaces; if they can't, it would be a good idea to spend some time showing them how to do this. Thanks!
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
January 14, 2010
Word of the day: dumb
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test.
2. Ski forms and cheques are due.
3. Library book exchange.
4. "Book and Tell" is the Show and Tell theme.
5. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables. (There are links to math games on the left hand side of this blog. Lots of them will have multiplication skills.)
Reminders for tomorrow:
1. Spelling test.
2. Ski forms and cheques are due.
3. Library book exchange.
4. "Book and Tell" is the Show and Tell theme.
5. Practise the 9 and 2 times tables. (There are links to math games on the left hand side of this blog. Lots of them will have multiplication skills.)
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
January 13, 2010
Word of the day: personification
Reminders:
1. Spelling homework is due tomorrow.
2. There will be a cookie sale tomorrow.
3. This Friday, the theme for Show and Tell will be "Book and Tell".
It would be a good idea to start daily drill on multiplication facts. We've been working on the 9 and 2 times tables. Parents, you can ask your child to supply the answers to times table questions as you drive them to school, when you serve dessert, every time they brush their teeth - have fun with it! In addition to "regular questions" like 9 x 3, please ask some questions like 9 x what=36, or 45 divided by 9 equals what.
Reminders:
1. Spelling homework is due tomorrow.
2. There will be a cookie sale tomorrow.
3. This Friday, the theme for Show and Tell will be "Book and Tell".
It would be a good idea to start daily drill on multiplication facts. We've been working on the 9 and 2 times tables. Parents, you can ask your child to supply the answers to times table questions as you drive them to school, when you serve dessert, every time they brush their teeth - have fun with it! In addition to "regular questions" like 9 x 3, please ask some questions like 9 x what=36, or 45 divided by 9 equals what.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
January 12, 2010
Word of the day: subtle
Reminders:
1. Thanks to the people who've returned their ski forms and fees. If you haven't returned the forms, please do so ASAP. Thanks.
2. There will be a science quiz on Friday.
3. Students, show your parents the finger calculator we learned about today. Remember it only works for the 9 times table.
We were discussing what would happen if an earthworm were to be chopped in two - some students remarked that they'd heard two earthworms would grow from the 2 pieces. Go to
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/earthworm.html
to see if 2 earthworms WILL grow from one poor little chopped-in-half one. The answer is somewhere on that page!
Reminders:
1. Thanks to the people who've returned their ski forms and fees. If you haven't returned the forms, please do so ASAP. Thanks.
2. There will be a science quiz on Friday.
3. Students, show your parents the finger calculator we learned about today. Remember it only works for the 9 times table.
We were discussing what would happen if an earthworm were to be chopped in two - some students remarked that they'd heard two earthworms would grow from the 2 pieces. Go to
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/earthworm.html
to see if 2 earthworms WILL grow from one poor little chopped-in-half one. The answer is somewhere on that page!
Monday, January 11, 2010
January 11, 2010
Word of the day: contagious
Congratulations to Jessa, Severin, Megan, Breanna, and Braeden for winning Immunity from this week's spelling - well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling (unless you have immunity!) homework due Thursday.
2. The third graders will be going downhill skiing in March. Students are bringing home information on the ski program today. Please complete the forms, sign them, and return them with the ski fee if your child has permission to attend the ski lessons.
We began learning about multiplication today. We discussed how the "x" sign can mean "groups of", so that 3 x 4 would mean "three groups of four". We also related
3 x 4 to 4 x 3 and talked about how multiplication is the reverse of division. As well, the 9 times table was introduced. Students, see if you can remember what was so cool about the answers to the 9 times table.
Congratulations to Jessa, Severin, Megan, Breanna, and Braeden for winning Immunity from this week's spelling - well done!
Reminders:
1. Spelling (unless you have immunity!) homework due Thursday.
2. The third graders will be going downhill skiing in March. Students are bringing home information on the ski program today. Please complete the forms, sign them, and return them with the ski fee if your child has permission to attend the ski lessons.
We began learning about multiplication today. We discussed how the "x" sign can mean "groups of", so that 3 x 4 would mean "three groups of four". We also related
3 x 4 to 4 x 3 and talked about how multiplication is the reverse of division. As well, the 9 times table was introduced. Students, see if you can remember what was so cool about the answers to the 9 times table.
Friday, January 8, 2010
January 8, 2010
Word of the day: concur
Congratulations to Jessa, Abhigya, Severin, Megan, Adrian, Sally, Breanna and Braeden for perfect completion of this week's spelling test! Great stuff!
Students, ask your parents what is unusual about the phrase "A man, a plan, a canal, Panama." You can explain what a palindrome is and see if you can come up with any others.
The whole class is doing very well on the cross country ski frontier. Everyone did two big laps at the ball diamonds, everyone went down the hill more than once, and we tried some new ways to turn today. Hopefully we can hang onto our snow now!
Enjoy the weekend!
Congratulations to Jessa, Abhigya, Severin, Megan, Adrian, Sally, Breanna and Braeden for perfect completion of this week's spelling test! Great stuff!
Students, ask your parents what is unusual about the phrase "A man, a plan, a canal, Panama." You can explain what a palindrome is and see if you can come up with any others.
The whole class is doing very well on the cross country ski frontier. Everyone did two big laps at the ball diamonds, everyone went down the hill more than once, and we tried some new ways to turn today. Hopefully we can hang onto our snow now!
Enjoy the weekend!
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