Saturday, September 13, 2014

Last Week in LL38.....

Good Job LL38...
      I am really proud of the kids for taking responsibility for turning in their homework on time this week.  Almost the entire class turned their homework in the day that was due.  I love to see them taking responsibility for their learning in this way!

Reading in the "EDGES"....
     I had the kids experiment with reading in the "edges" this week for homework.  We talked a lot about improving as a reader requires that we practice reading.  I challenged the kids to find time to read in the "edges" of their days this week.  Maybe they didn't have time to sit and read before bed for a full 20 minutes, but were able to find bits of time to read.  For example, many of the kids talked about reading while waiting for a sibling to finish a practice or while driving in the car.  These are great examples of finding time in the day to make reading a priority.  
     During reading on Friday, I had the kids reflect on how reading in the "edges" went for them.  In their reflections some students talked about how they were proud of themselves for finding 20 minutes (or more) each day to read, or that they were able to read 10 minutes on the way to a practice and then on the way home as well.  This was GREAT to hear and helps support the growth mindset that we are working on this year.  
     I reminded the kids that reading is reading, so it doesn't matter if they are reading to themselves, to a parent, sibling or even a stuffed animal. :)  Any reading that they are doing is better than not reading at all.  Picture books are also a great way to share books with your child.  

Opinions Galore!
     In writing we worked as essayists to share big ideas about topics that are important to us.  We were able to observe and notice the set up of an essay and try planning essays.  One of the important part of an essay is providing clear reasons to back up our thesis or opinion.  The kids have loved sharing their opinions with their classmates.  We will continue to work this week on pushing our thinking and adding details to our essays.

 Book Orders
     Book orders went out on Friday.  They are due on Friday, September 19th.  You can order online at www.scholastic.com or send in the order with your child.  If you order online our class code is  GXC4P.  If you choose to send your order into school, please send checks made out to Scholastic Book Clubs.

Thank YOU! 
     It was a great first full week of fourth grade!  Thank you to all of the parents that shared information and important insight with me about their child on the pink Getting to Know You form.  This is so important in helping me get to know your child as a person and a learner.  Also, our storage cabinets are overflowing with tissues, disinfectant wipes, and additional supplies.  Thank you for sending in all of this for our class.  It will come in handy as the year goes on!

Have a great weekend!

~Jen



   

No comments:

Post a Comment