Dear Families,

Hello and happy (salsa) Friday! It was our first FULL week of 4th grade! Some things we've been doing this week:

Reading – This week, students received their Reading Response journals. We talked about how to log books they’ve read, and what to do when they finish a book. Additionally, we visited the library and talked about how readers choose books and make good book choices.

Math – Students learned about area this week and we explored the concept with pattern blocks and then tiles. The students eventually used 1x1”, 2x2”, and 3x3” squares to find area. Next week, we’ll move into multiplication and division models. A very informative sheet came home today that explains what else we’ll be doing in Bridges Unit 1.

Science/Social Studies – We continued to collect data about our rapidly growing monarch larvae this week. The larvae are growing big enough that we even have to feed them more! Part of our science inquiry this week was to wonder about their feeding habits and exactly how much they eat. Additionally, we examined them under a magnifying glass and created labeled drawings of what we saw.

Of course, we also enjoyed team time, making salsa this afternoon, and had a FABULOUS field trip to Shelburne Farms this week. Students did a great job working together in the team building activities.

Homework Notes –

Students have 2 new additions to their goal sheets this week: Fastt Math and Spelling. All students have done Fastt Math last year, so they understand the program. I reminded them how to get on and what it looks like once you do. They will be asked to do Fastt Math 5 x/week for homework. (Yes, if they want, they can do 2 in one day.)

Spelling (due Friday) will start on Monday so students will get their HW and packets then. Let me know if you have any questions about it.

Important Dates:

Curriculum Night for parents – Tuesday 9/20-6-730

Picture Day – Wednesday 9/21

Innisbrook Wrapping paper orders due – Tuesday 9/27