Happy Rainy Day,

I wanted to get this out today since every Friday is so hectic.

Here is what we've been doing and what we will be doing:

Language Arts: We've read some folktales. This week we focused on the beginning, middle, and end of each story. Next week we'll be looking at characters. Are they major or minor? Do they change throughout the story?

Math: My math class has been working on 2-digit addition with regrouping, 3-digit addition with regrouping, and column addition with regrouping. They will be taking a quiz tomorrow on all three. Next week we'll be starting with subtraction with regrouping.

Writing: Our Writer's Workshop is in full swing. Ask your child about our "pitstops". We start out our time with 10-15 minutes of quiet thinking or writing. Then I do a short writing lesson. Next, they go to "pitstops". These stops could be drafting, peer conferencing, editing, revising, teacher conferencing, or publishing. They are really into it and are always focused during this time.

Word Study: We worked with synonyms this week. Next week we'll be working with homonyms (sound the same but have different meanings).

Science: We have aquariums!!! Yes...nothing has died all week! Ask your child the difference between a population and a community. Also, ask what organisms we have in our aquariums and have them tell you a little about each one. Next week we'll continue to observe and talk about predator, prey, food chains, and food webs.

Other Information:
Thanks to everyone who has gotten the Fall Festival money in so quickly. I'm sure my room moms are appreciating it! Also, another big thank you to everyone who has returned permissions slips and money. Again, sorry everything is coming all at once!

Please check your child's take home folder, agenda, and book bag and be sure to initial the agenda. I have not had one day where 100% of my class came to school with all homework done. The work I'm sending should not be too much for them to handle.

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone at conferences. Please let me know if there are any specific questions you'll have... 15 minutes is NOT a long time!

Have a great weekend,
Faith Humerick