Important Dates
10-Character lunch & Character movie. Congratulations to Alyssa Gonzalez and Mason Smith.
15- Holiday Concert at Grace Church 9:00 am to 10:30 am
16-Report Cards: No lunch or after school
17-1/3- Holiday Break
18-Downtown Christmas Parade
Classroom News:
End of Quarter: I am completing the 3rd round of curriculum based measurements with the students in reading and writing. I have definitely seen some growth.
In order not to lose any of the skills students are learning, please encourage your child to do something academic each day over the holidays. I would like for them to continue to read over the holidays. Bookman’s has generously donated some books to our classroom. It is my hope that each child will be able to bring one book home over the break. Visiting the public library is another great way to motivate your child to read.
Students can also go onto to some of the math web sites I have suggested on my teacher blog to play math games and practice their math facts. If you google “math games”, a plethora of sites become available.
Reading/Writing: Students have been working hard on their state research project. The research for the ABC book should be completed by this Friday, and the rough draft of the ABC book should be completed by next Tuesday. The actual final copy of the book is not due until after vacation.
State Project: The first stage of the ABC state book was due Friday. All research should now be completed on at least 20 letters. Next week students will work on writing their rough draft and drawing their pictures.
After the holiday, students will begin putting together a portfolio of their writing over these past 2 quarters. You can look forward to conferencing with your child about his/her portfolio once this is completed.
Spelling/Vocabulary:
Students practiced words with suffixes this week.
The vocabulary words consisted of words related to sentences; such as declarative, imperative, fragment, exclamatory, run-on, and fragment.
Math: This week students learned mean, median, mode and range for a set of data. They also worked with fractional word problems, double line graphs and place value through the hundred millions.
Parent Notes:
Holiday Party: Just a reminder that we will be having a small holiday party next Friday, Dec. 17th. We will make a craft and have a voluntary book exchange. Your child may bring a new or used (in good condition) wrapped book to participate in the book exchange. It must be labeled “girl, boy or boy/girl” on the book.
The students have also volunteered to bring snacks for the party. If you could provide snacks such as chips, salsa, cheese, crackers, fruit, vegetables, drinks, cups etc., we would be very grateful.
Holiday Concert: In lieu of some curriculum lessons this week, we have spent a lot of time rehearsing our holiday song for the performance next Wednesday. Students are to wear jeans and a solid red shirt. Any western accessories will be appropriate as well. I hope you can join us for some holiday cheer.
Belts: The LPA dress code requires students to wear their shirts tucked in with a belt. Every day a few students come to school without a belt.
I had about 5-6 belts to lend to students so they would not have to call home for a belt. Unfortunately most of them are missing in action. I had a blue and white fabric belt, a maroon suede belt and several brown and black braided belts. Could you please check your inventory at home and send back to school any belt you know does not belong to your child? Thank you!
Markers/colored pencils needed: We in need of some classroom markers and colored pencils for our many projects we do in class. If you can provide us with a box or two, we would truly appreciate it.
End of Quarter: The last day of the quarter is Dec. 17th. Report cards will be coming home next Friday with your child.
Communicating: Please feel free to email me at any time with questions or concerns you have about your child. I usually check my email once per day. My email address can be found at the top of every newsletter, as well as on the LPA web site.
Canned Food Drive: LPA is having a can food drive for families in need. If you can send in any cans with your child it would be greatly appreciated.
I wish you all a peaceful, restful and happy holiday!
Friday, December 10, 2010
DECEMBER CLASS NEWS: 12/03
What We're Learning:
Spelling: Words with prefixes
Vocabulary: Types of sentences: declarative, exclamatory, interrogative, and imperative. Other words we are learning are evaporation, condensation, fragment and run-on. Test will be next Friday.
Math: Two-step problems, fractions and percents, averaging.
Reading/S.S.: Students are reading and researching facts about one particular state. They will be putting together an ABC book about that state. Your child should have shown you the guidelines for the state project this week. If you have not yet signed the state packet guidelines, please ask your child about it.
Writing: Students are learning about the different purposes for writing. We are now focusing on informational writing. Students will be writing their ABC book for the next 2 weeks. Their final copy will be due the week we return from holiday break.
Science: Solids, liquids,gases and different states of matter. You might find your little scientist creating carbon dioxide gas with vinegar and baking soda
Mrs. Russell (our counselor): Responsibility and consequences for poor choices.
Parent Notes:
Many thanks to the families of Alex Phillips, Johnathan Martinez and Issac Martinez for providing cooked turkeys for our Thanksgiving Feast! The food was great and we had a grand time! We are thankful for family!
Holiday Music Program: Please join us on Wed. 12/15 from 9:15-10:30 at Grace to the Nations Church to hear LPA students sing wonderful seasonal music.
*Please help your child dress appropriately that day. Our class is to wear jeans and a red shirt. Students can wear western accessories as well (cowboy boots, bandana, western belt, etc.)
End of Quarter: The last day of the quarter is Dec. 17th. Students must have all assignments completed by Monday, Dec. 13th in order to count for this quarter’s grades. Please encourage your child to make up any late assignments.
Canned Food Drive: LPA is having a canned food drive for families in need. If you can send in any cans with your child it would be greatly appreciated. We are trying to beat the other classes by collecting the most cans.
What We're Learning:
Spelling: Words with prefixes
Vocabulary: Types of sentences: declarative, exclamatory, interrogative, and imperative. Other words we are learning are evaporation, condensation, fragment and run-on. Test will be next Friday.
Math: Two-step problems, fractions and percents, averaging.
Reading/S.S.: Students are reading and researching facts about one particular state. They will be putting together an ABC book about that state. Your child should have shown you the guidelines for the state project this week. If you have not yet signed the state packet guidelines, please ask your child about it.
Writing: Students are learning about the different purposes for writing. We are now focusing on informational writing. Students will be writing their ABC book for the next 2 weeks. Their final copy will be due the week we return from holiday break.
Science: Solids, liquids,gases and different states of matter. You might find your little scientist creating carbon dioxide gas with vinegar and baking soda
Mrs. Russell (our counselor): Responsibility and consequences for poor choices.
Parent Notes:
Many thanks to the families of Alex Phillips, Johnathan Martinez and Issac Martinez for providing cooked turkeys for our Thanksgiving Feast! The food was great and we had a grand time! We are thankful for family!
Holiday Music Program: Please join us on Wed. 12/15 from 9:15-10:30 at Grace to the Nations Church to hear LPA students sing wonderful seasonal music.
*Please help your child dress appropriately that day. Our class is to wear jeans and a red shirt. Students can wear western accessories as well (cowboy boots, bandana, western belt, etc.)
End of Quarter: The last day of the quarter is Dec. 17th. Students must have all assignments completed by Monday, Dec. 13th in order to count for this quarter’s grades. Please encourage your child to make up any late assignments.
Canned Food Drive: LPA is having a canned food drive for families in need. If you can send in any cans with your child it would be greatly appreciated. We are trying to beat the other classes by collecting the most cans.
Monday, November 15, 2010
NOVEMBER NEWS
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Thanksgiving Feast: This year La Paloma students will give thanks and participate in a Thanksgiving Feast on November 23rd. We can only do this with YOUR help.
The 3rd, 5th and 6th grade classes are responsible for providing cooked turkeys for the feast.
*We are asking that each student bring in $1.00 to contribute toward the turkeys.
* I need 2 parents who will volunteer to purchase the turkeys (with the donated money), cook the turkeys, and bring them to school the morning of November 23.
*If you would like to purchase, cook, and donate a turkey (20 lbs), we would be most thankful for your help as well!
Please let me know by Friday, Nov. 19th if you can help in any way.
Holiday Program: We have started practicing for our school holiday concert. The students are excited about our song for the show. We hope to have the concert on Wed., December 15th at Grace Church.
The students will be singing The 12 Days of Christmas…Arizona style. For our performance, we are in need of 12 poster boards (22”x 28”). Please help by donating a poster board so students can create a pictoral graphic to accompany the song.
Progress Reports: Mid-quarter reports will go home on Monday. Please discuss these mid-quarter grades and help your child set some goals for the rest of the quarter. Please sign the report and return it to school by Friday, Nov. 19th.
November Dates:
11-Veteran’s Day – No School
12- End of Mid-Quarter
15- Progress Reports Home
16- BMX Show
16- Skate Night 6-8 pm.
23- Thanksgiving Feast
24-26 No School. Thanksgiving Break
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Thanksgiving Feast: This year La Paloma students will give thanks and participate in a Thanksgiving Feast on November 23rd. We can only do this with YOUR help.
The 3rd, 5th and 6th grade classes are responsible for providing cooked turkeys for the feast.
*We are asking that each student bring in $1.00 to contribute toward the turkeys.
* I need 2 parents who will volunteer to purchase the turkeys (with the donated money), cook the turkeys, and bring them to school the morning of November 23.
*If you would like to purchase, cook, and donate a turkey (20 lbs), we would be most thankful for your help as well!
Please let me know by Friday, Nov. 19th if you can help in any way.
Holiday Program: We have started practicing for our school holiday concert. The students are excited about our song for the show. We hope to have the concert on Wed., December 15th at Grace Church.
The students will be singing The 12 Days of Christmas…Arizona style. For our performance, we are in need of 12 poster boards (22”x 28”). Please help by donating a poster board so students can create a pictoral graphic to accompany the song.
Progress Reports: Mid-quarter reports will go home on Monday. Please discuss these mid-quarter grades and help your child set some goals for the rest of the quarter. Please sign the report and return it to school by Friday, Nov. 19th.
November Dates:
11-Veteran’s Day – No School
12- End of Mid-Quarter
15- Progress Reports Home
16- BMX Show
16- Skate Night 6-8 pm.
23- Thanksgiving Feast
24-26 No School. Thanksgiving Break
Sunday, November 7, 2010
November Update
Turkeys, Turkeys, we need Turkeys!
This year La Paloma students will give thanks and participate in a Thanksgiving Feast on Tuesday, November 23rd. We can only do this with YOUR help.
The 3rd, 5th and 6th grade classes are responsible for providing cooked turkeys for the feast.
*We are asking that each student bring in $1.00 to contribute toward the turkeys.
* I need 2-3 parents who will volunteer to purchase the turkeys (with the donated money), cook the turkeys, and bring them to school the morning of November 23.
*If you would like to purchase, cook, and donate a turkey (11 + lbs), we would be most thankful as well!
Please let me know by Friday, Nov. 19th if you can help in any way.
December Concert: We will be holding a Holiday Program at Grace Church on Dec. 15 (most likely the date...but could change to Dec. 8th).
Our class will be singing the 12 Days of Christmas...Arizona style. We are in need of 12 poster boards to help us with this endeavor. If you could donate a poster board (22"x28"),we would be very appreciative!
What We're Learning:
Math: Long division, fractions, systematic listing, and geometry. A unit test will be given this coming week.
Reading: Students continued reading folklore stories.
Writing: Students began brainstorming their own folklore story. They will complete a tall tale, folktale or fable.
Students are also writing descriptive paragraphs about their Sabino Canyon experience.
Science: We continued learning about matter, elements, molecules and atoms. Students created their water, cardon dioxide, propane and oxygen molecules using gum drops. They also designed their own molecule using various geometric shapes modeling their design after the "Bucky Ball" molecule.
We also had a wonderful fieldtrip to Sabino Canyon. The students learned a lot about our desert environment and the critters that make the desert their home. Thank you to those parents who chaperoned our trip!
S.S./Spelling: Students will be introduced to the northeastern states this week. Students should practice the spelling and location of each state every night in preparation for the Friday test.
*Students can practice locating particular states at this fun web site: http://scottbryce.com/
(Once at the site, click on US Geography).
Notes to Parents:
Thank you again to all of the parents who donated goodies for our party on Oct. 29th. The students enjoyed a movie, great snacks and some fun together time.
Thank you also to Maddison, Savannah, Gage, Melanie, and Janelle for making our marble party this past Friday enjoyable with pizza and eegees.
Absent Work: If your child is going to be absent due to illness for a few days, I would be happy to gather the make-up work for him/her. Just call and leave a message with the front desk, and I will have it to the front desk by the end of the day.
Progress Reports: Please remind your child to keep up with their school work. Mid-quarter progress reports will be going home November 15.
This year La Paloma students will give thanks and participate in a Thanksgiving Feast on Tuesday, November 23rd. We can only do this with YOUR help.
The 3rd, 5th and 6th grade classes are responsible for providing cooked turkeys for the feast.
*We are asking that each student bring in $1.00 to contribute toward the turkeys.
* I need 2-3 parents who will volunteer to purchase the turkeys (with the donated money), cook the turkeys, and bring them to school the morning of November 23.
*If you would like to purchase, cook, and donate a turkey (11 + lbs), we would be most thankful as well!
Please let me know by Friday, Nov. 19th if you can help in any way.
December Concert: We will be holding a Holiday Program at Grace Church on Dec. 15 (most likely the date...but could change to Dec. 8th).
Our class will be singing the 12 Days of Christmas...Arizona style. We are in need of 12 poster boards to help us with this endeavor. If you could donate a poster board (22"x28"),we would be very appreciative!
What We're Learning:
Math: Long division, fractions, systematic listing, and geometry. A unit test will be given this coming week.
Reading: Students continued reading folklore stories.
Writing: Students began brainstorming their own folklore story. They will complete a tall tale, folktale or fable.
Students are also writing descriptive paragraphs about their Sabino Canyon experience.
Science: We continued learning about matter, elements, molecules and atoms. Students created their water, cardon dioxide, propane and oxygen molecules using gum drops. They also designed their own molecule using various geometric shapes modeling their design after the "Bucky Ball" molecule.
We also had a wonderful fieldtrip to Sabino Canyon. The students learned a lot about our desert environment and the critters that make the desert their home. Thank you to those parents who chaperoned our trip!
S.S./Spelling: Students will be introduced to the northeastern states this week. Students should practice the spelling and location of each state every night in preparation for the Friday test.
*Students can practice locating particular states at this fun web site: http://scottbryce.com/
(Once at the site, click on US Geography).
Notes to Parents:
Thank you again to all of the parents who donated goodies for our party on Oct. 29th. The students enjoyed a movie, great snacks and some fun together time.
Thank you also to Maddison, Savannah, Gage, Melanie, and Janelle for making our marble party this past Friday enjoyable with pizza and eegees.
Absent Work: If your child is going to be absent due to illness for a few days, I would be happy to gather the make-up work for him/her. Just call and leave a message with the front desk, and I will have it to the front desk by the end of the day.
Progress Reports: Please remind your child to keep up with their school work. Mid-quarter progress reports will be going home November 15.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Classroom News
October 29, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Curriculum:
Math: Students received their math test grades from last week…there were about 10 As, 2 Bs and 10 Cs and 2 Ds. Students are still working on geometry (polygons), fractions, division and problem solving. Students should continue to practice math facts at home.
S.S: This week is Drug Awareness Week. Students read an informational article about drugs, designed posters, and wrote about the topic. We have had some very informative discussions about the difference between legal and illegal drugs and the consequences of drug abuse.
Science: Students are excited about chemistry! They are learning about matter, atoms, molecules and elements. They even made their own molecules using gumdrops and toothpicks.
Reading: Students read some fables, myths and tall tales this week. They are analyzing the story elements in preparation for writing their own tale.
Writing: This week students wrote a story, personal narrative or poem with the message, “Say No to Drugs” to enter into a school-wide writing contest.
Spelling: The spelling unit this week focused on the Midwestern States. Students are doing a good job learning the spelling and location of the states in our nation. Some websites to practice the states are listed below:
http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/
states_experiment_drag-drop_Intermed_State15s_500.html
http://www.schoolexpress.com/
funtime/states/index.php
Next week’s words come from the Southern Region of the U.S:
Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky, Alabama, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida.
Mrs. Russell has been working hard with students on goal setting, and will also be doing some team building activities.
Notes to Parents:
Harvest Fest this Friday: Thank you to those who donated candy to use for our Ring Toss booth. We are still in need of volunteers, so if you’re at the Harvest Fest and want to come by to help, please sign up!
Thank you also for allowing your child to bring treats and snacks for our own little “fall” party we had in the classroom on Friday afternoon.
Fieldtrip: We will be going to Sabino Canyon on Tuesday, 11/2. Students should bring a sack lunch and drink and wear tennis shoes.
Reminder: Now that the weather is turning cooler, please remind your child of the school dress code policy.
*Sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets must be of solid color (red, white or navy) without any emblems or writing.
*Undershirts may be worn under the polo shirt, but must adhere to the school colors and cannot be larger than the polo shirt.
Newsworthy Notes:
October:
29- Harvest Fest 6-8 pm.
November:
3- Duds for $1.00 Dress Down
5- Bingo Night.
5- Character Lunch for respect
11-Veteran’s Day – No School
16- Skate Country Night
16- BMX Bike Show
23- Thanksgiving Feast
24-26-No School. Thanksgiving Break
October 29, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Curriculum:
Math: Students received their math test grades from last week…there were about 10 As, 2 Bs and 10 Cs and 2 Ds. Students are still working on geometry (polygons), fractions, division and problem solving. Students should continue to practice math facts at home.
S.S: This week is Drug Awareness Week. Students read an informational article about drugs, designed posters, and wrote about the topic. We have had some very informative discussions about the difference between legal and illegal drugs and the consequences of drug abuse.
Science: Students are excited about chemistry! They are learning about matter, atoms, molecules and elements. They even made their own molecules using gumdrops and toothpicks.
Reading: Students read some fables, myths and tall tales this week. They are analyzing the story elements in preparation for writing their own tale.
Writing: This week students wrote a story, personal narrative or poem with the message, “Say No to Drugs” to enter into a school-wide writing contest.
Spelling: The spelling unit this week focused on the Midwestern States. Students are doing a good job learning the spelling and location of the states in our nation. Some websites to practice the states are listed below:
http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/
states_experiment_drag-drop_Intermed_State15s_500.html
http://www.schoolexpress.com/
funtime/states/index.php
Next week’s words come from the Southern Region of the U.S:
Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky, Alabama, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida.
Mrs. Russell has been working hard with students on goal setting, and will also be doing some team building activities.
Notes to Parents:
Harvest Fest this Friday: Thank you to those who donated candy to use for our Ring Toss booth. We are still in need of volunteers, so if you’re at the Harvest Fest and want to come by to help, please sign up!
Thank you also for allowing your child to bring treats and snacks for our own little “fall” party we had in the classroom on Friday afternoon.
Fieldtrip: We will be going to Sabino Canyon on Tuesday, 11/2. Students should bring a sack lunch and drink and wear tennis shoes.
Reminder: Now that the weather is turning cooler, please remind your child of the school dress code policy.
*Sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets must be of solid color (red, white or navy) without any emblems or writing.
*Undershirts may be worn under the polo shirt, but must adhere to the school colors and cannot be larger than the polo shirt.
Newsworthy Notes:
October:
29- Harvest Fest 6-8 pm.
November:
3- Duds for $1.00 Dress Down
5- Bingo Night.
5- Character Lunch for respect
11-Veteran’s Day – No School
16- Skate Country Night
16- BMX Bike Show
23- Thanksgiving Feast
24-26-No School. Thanksgiving Break
Monday, October 25, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
October 22, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
CURRICULUM
Math: We have just finished unit 5 in Saxon Math. Students have been working on geometry, fractions, division and problem solving most recently. Please continue to encourage your child to practice his/her math facts at home.
Reading: Students learned about story elements. The elements were modeled through a Cinderella story, and then applied to other stories we have been reading.
We also began a unit on folklore. Students are learning the features of folktales, tall tales and fables.
Writing: Students will be applying the elements of folklore when they write their own folktale, fable or tall tale.
S.S: We are still engaged in the United States Regions. Students have learned that our nation is divided into regions and that each region is characterized by various features. Students then created their own physical feature map.
Spelling: The spelling units will focus on our 50 states for the next few weeks. Students are to learn how to spell the states and be able to locate them on a map. Each week will culminate with a test on the particular region they have studied for the week (both spelling and location of the states). Some fun web sites to practice the states are:
http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/
states_experiment_drag-drop_Intermed_State15s_500.html
http://www.schoolexpress.com/
funtime/states/index.php
Science: Students used their Science Weekly newspaper to investigate the topic of matter this week. We will continue with atoms, molecules and chemical properties next week.
Mrs. Russell worked with students on summarizing the last quarter and thinking forward about the 2nd quarter.
RESPECT: Respect is the character pillar we are practicing this month. Students brainstormed ways to show respect and each student put in “a little respect” slip into a basket to draw from each day. It is definitely making the students more aware of their actions.
Parent Notes:
Harvest Fest on Oct. 29th: We still need donations of candy for our ring toss booth. We also need volunteers, so if you’re at the Harvest Fest and want to come by to help, please let me know!
Dress Code: Now that the weather is turning cooler, please remind your child of the school dress code policy.
*Sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets must be of solid color (red, white or navy) without any emblems or writing.
*Undershirts may be worn under the polo shirt, but must adhere to the school colors and cannot be larger than the polo shirt.
* Belts are also part of the dress code. Many students are coming to school without a belt. Students will be asked to call home if they do not wear a belt.
Blog: Don’t forget to check out my teacher blog at lpatucson.org. Just click on central teachers, find Mrs. Denny, and then click on blogspot. You will be able to read classroom news and access educational links.
Newsworthy News
October:
26- Picture Re-takes
29- Harvest Fest
November:
1- Candle Sale Begins
3- Duds for Dollars Dress Down
5- Bingo Night
5- Character Lunch for respect
11-Veteran’s Day – No School
16- BMX show
16- Skate Night 6-8 pm.
17- Candle Sale Ends
23- Thanksgiving Feast
24-27 No School. Thanksgiving Break
Congratulations to Alyssa Gonzales and Mason Smith for making Honor Roll for the 1st Quarter!
October 22, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
CURRICULUM
Math: We have just finished unit 5 in Saxon Math. Students have been working on geometry, fractions, division and problem solving most recently. Please continue to encourage your child to practice his/her math facts at home.
Reading: Students learned about story elements. The elements were modeled through a Cinderella story, and then applied to other stories we have been reading.
We also began a unit on folklore. Students are learning the features of folktales, tall tales and fables.
Writing: Students will be applying the elements of folklore when they write their own folktale, fable or tall tale.
S.S: We are still engaged in the United States Regions. Students have learned that our nation is divided into regions and that each region is characterized by various features. Students then created their own physical feature map.
Spelling: The spelling units will focus on our 50 states for the next few weeks. Students are to learn how to spell the states and be able to locate them on a map. Each week will culminate with a test on the particular region they have studied for the week (both spelling and location of the states). Some fun web sites to practice the states are:
http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/
states_experiment_drag-drop_Intermed_State15s_500.html
http://www.schoolexpress.com/
funtime/states/index.php
Science: Students used their Science Weekly newspaper to investigate the topic of matter this week. We will continue with atoms, molecules and chemical properties next week.
Mrs. Russell worked with students on summarizing the last quarter and thinking forward about the 2nd quarter.
RESPECT: Respect is the character pillar we are practicing this month. Students brainstormed ways to show respect and each student put in “a little respect” slip into a basket to draw from each day. It is definitely making the students more aware of their actions.
Parent Notes:
Harvest Fest on Oct. 29th: We still need donations of candy for our ring toss booth. We also need volunteers, so if you’re at the Harvest Fest and want to come by to help, please let me know!
Dress Code: Now that the weather is turning cooler, please remind your child of the school dress code policy.
*Sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets must be of solid color (red, white or navy) without any emblems or writing.
*Undershirts may be worn under the polo shirt, but must adhere to the school colors and cannot be larger than the polo shirt.
* Belts are also part of the dress code. Many students are coming to school without a belt. Students will be asked to call home if they do not wear a belt.
Blog: Don’t forget to check out my teacher blog at lpatucson.org. Just click on central teachers, find Mrs. Denny, and then click on blogspot. You will be able to read classroom news and access educational links.
Newsworthy News
October:
26- Picture Re-takes
29- Harvest Fest
November:
1- Candle Sale Begins
3- Duds for Dollars Dress Down
5- Bingo Night
5- Character Lunch for respect
11-Veteran’s Day – No School
16- BMX show
16- Skate Night 6-8 pm.
17- Candle Sale Ends
23- Thanksgiving Feast
24-27 No School. Thanksgiving Break
Congratulations to Alyssa Gonzales and Mason Smith for making Honor Roll for the 1st Quarter!
Friday, October 15, 2010
A New Quarter
FALL is in the air and we are going into the 2nd quarter already! It's a chance to have a clean slate and strive for "your personal best," as I say in the classroom. Students will be making new academic and behavioral goals for the new quarter. I look forward to challenging the students to push themselves to success in both domains. I frequently tell the students that one way to be successful is to hand in homework on time. Committing to that goal not only helps improve grades, but leads to rewards at school as well.
There will be a few new rules for the quarter:
1. Like last quarter, students who have 2 or more missing assignments on any given day, or 2 in a row, will need to serve detention that day to complete the assignments. Students will be informed that if the assignments are not turned in the next day, the they will have lunch detention. It is my hope that late and missing homework will be a problem of the past.
2. Any toys/games brought to school will become the property of the classroom until you, the parent, come to retrieve the item(s). Many students have been bringing cherished possessions to school. This has resulted in much conflict in the classroom. Please allow your child to bring only school supplies to school, unless otherwise advised.
The 2nd quarter is full of learning, fun, fieldtrips and celebrations. I look forward to a fresh start!
There will be a few new rules for the quarter:
1. Like last quarter, students who have 2 or more missing assignments on any given day, or 2 in a row, will need to serve detention that day to complete the assignments. Students will be informed that if the assignments are not turned in the next day, the they will have lunch detention. It is my hope that late and missing homework will be a problem of the past.
2. Any toys/games brought to school will become the property of the classroom until you, the parent, come to retrieve the item(s). Many students have been bringing cherished possessions to school. This has resulted in much conflict in the classroom. Please allow your child to bring only school supplies to school, unless otherwise advised.
The 2nd quarter is full of learning, fun, fieldtrips and celebrations. I look forward to a fresh start!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Classroom News
NEWS FROM MRS. DENNY'S CLASS
OCTOBER 1, 2010
Curriculum News:
Math: Division facts were the focus again this week. Students are learning about factors, products and fractions, and long division in Saxon math.
Reading: We are almost finished with the City of Ember. Students are trying to earn a marble jar party to possibly watch the City of Ember movie. Of course, we will compare and contrast the two forms of the story.
Writing: Students are learning the various reasons for writing. Persuasive writing will be our focus this next week.
Vocabulary words to study for next week:
illegible, egress, ingress, impact, immense, threshold, bewilderment, audacious
Science: Students have been very enthusiastic about their inventor reports. We have learned how to write an introductory paragraph, supporting paragraphs and a concluding paragraph. We also practiced documenting sources used for their research. These reports are due next Wednesday, Oct. 6. We have spent time in class writing, but students need to finalize their final product at home.
I would like the students to get an adult to read over their rough draft before writing the final copy. Students received a rubric delineating the report expectations.
S.S.: Mrs. Russell was in this week conducting a sportsmanship lesson.
Our October character trait is respect. Mrs. Russell and I will both be conducting lessons on being courteous and polite, and treating others the way you want to be treated regardless of race, religion, gender, or physical infirmity.
Notes to Parents:
Treat Box and Prize Box: For those of you who volunteered to help supply these incentive boxes in our classroom, I would love for you to send in any treats or prizes to reward the students with. Thank you to those who have already sent in some items!
Treats can be small pieces of candy, lollipops, gummies, etc.
Prizes can be any small toys, small non-fiction books, sharpie markers, tape, small (individual) Kleenex packages, personal sanitizer bottles, hair ties, bracelets, stickers, special markers, etc.
I bought some great prizes at a garage sale last week. The students were excited to see new prizes in the box.
Any help you can provide would be much appreciated!
Field Trips: 5th Grade is planning some educational fieldtrips for this year. We plan to visit Sabino Canyon in November, and coordinate another fieldtrip later in the spring. Be on the look out…more details to follow!
Newsletters: Please note that the classroom newsletter is also available on my classroom blog. You may access the blog through the LPA website: lpatucson.org.
Art: Just a reminder that the art teacher, Mrs. Molina, would like the students to bring in newspaper and an old painting shirt for use during her paint lessons.
Report Cards: Just a reminder that report cards will come home on Wednesday, Oct. 13th. All late work needs to be in by Friday, Oct. 8th.
Important Dates:
October
1-Movie Night
6-Dud for Dollars (Dress down for $1.00)
7-40th Day: Special Snacks. Free Dress Down Day!
8-Character Lunch: Alyssa Gonzales
11-Dentist
13-Report Cards. ½ Day. No Lunch or After School
13-Cookie Fundraiser Ends
13-Grandparents Day
14 & 15-Fall Break. No School
OCTOBER 1, 2010
Curriculum News:
Math: Division facts were the focus again this week. Students are learning about factors, products and fractions, and long division in Saxon math.
Reading: We are almost finished with the City of Ember. Students are trying to earn a marble jar party to possibly watch the City of Ember movie. Of course, we will compare and contrast the two forms of the story.
Writing: Students are learning the various reasons for writing. Persuasive writing will be our focus this next week.
Vocabulary words to study for next week:
illegible, egress, ingress, impact, immense, threshold, bewilderment, audacious
Science: Students have been very enthusiastic about their inventor reports. We have learned how to write an introductory paragraph, supporting paragraphs and a concluding paragraph. We also practiced documenting sources used for their research. These reports are due next Wednesday, Oct. 6. We have spent time in class writing, but students need to finalize their final product at home.
I would like the students to get an adult to read over their rough draft before writing the final copy. Students received a rubric delineating the report expectations.
S.S.: Mrs. Russell was in this week conducting a sportsmanship lesson.
Our October character trait is respect. Mrs. Russell and I will both be conducting lessons on being courteous and polite, and treating others the way you want to be treated regardless of race, religion, gender, or physical infirmity.
Notes to Parents:
Treat Box and Prize Box: For those of you who volunteered to help supply these incentive boxes in our classroom, I would love for you to send in any treats or prizes to reward the students with. Thank you to those who have already sent in some items!
Treats can be small pieces of candy, lollipops, gummies, etc.
Prizes can be any small toys, small non-fiction books, sharpie markers, tape, small (individual) Kleenex packages, personal sanitizer bottles, hair ties, bracelets, stickers, special markers, etc.
I bought some great prizes at a garage sale last week. The students were excited to see new prizes in the box.
Any help you can provide would be much appreciated!
Field Trips: 5th Grade is planning some educational fieldtrips for this year. We plan to visit Sabino Canyon in November, and coordinate another fieldtrip later in the spring. Be on the look out…more details to follow!
Newsletters: Please note that the classroom newsletter is also available on my classroom blog. You may access the blog through the LPA website: lpatucson.org.
Art: Just a reminder that the art teacher, Mrs. Molina, would like the students to bring in newspaper and an old painting shirt for use during her paint lessons.
Report Cards: Just a reminder that report cards will come home on Wednesday, Oct. 13th. All late work needs to be in by Friday, Oct. 8th.
Important Dates:
October
1-Movie Night
6-Dud for Dollars (Dress down for $1.00)
7-40th Day: Special Snacks. Free Dress Down Day!
8-Character Lunch: Alyssa Gonzales
11-Dentist
13-Report Cards. ½ Day. No Lunch or After School
13-Cookie Fundraiser Ends
13-Grandparents Day
14 & 15-Fall Break. No School
Friday, September 17, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
September 17, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Curriculum News
Students should have been studying their multiplication facts this week. They were tested on those facts this Friday.
We continue to work on our math concepts. Subtracting larger numbers with borrowing continues to be a focus. We are also working on solving mathematical story problems and problems with missing addends.
We continue to read and write about the City of Ember. Students are working on “painting a picture” for their audience when they write. They are also working on using specific details to communicate clearly.
In social studies, students took a S.S. quiz on the concepts learned in their S.S. Weekly newspaper.
In science, we have been discussing inventors and their inventions. Students will be assigned a specific inventor to research and will write a research report to share with the class.
We’ve been playing some spelling games in class to help students master their weekly spelling words before the Friday test. Please encourage your child to log on to spellingcity.com to prepare for their test.
Ms Russell, our counselor, visited again on Thursday. She worked with the students on the meaning of integrity. Entertainment Books: Please return any unsold Entertainment books to school. These books need to be turned into the company.
Notes to Parents
Box Tops: The classrooms are having a contest to see who can bring in the most box tops. Please give any box tops to your child, so we can count them toward our box top amount.
Progress Reports: Thank you to all who signed and returned the progress report! I am still waiting for a few more. For those wanting a conference, I will make appointments on Wed., Oct. 6th. Please contact me if you’d like to set up a time.
Independent Reading: Please help your child remember to read each evening (at least 20 minutes), record the # of minutes on their reading calendar and write on their home reading log. This assignment is a nightly homework assignment. Students will be counting up how many minutes they read each month and graphing their progress at the end of every month.
Detention: Please remember that each time your child fails to turn in all homework assignments on a given day or has missing work 2 days in a row, they will have after school detention from 3:30-4:30 that day. Your child will call to notify you of the consequence. There is no detention on Wednesdays, so detention from that day must be served on Thursday. Most of the class is doing a fabulous job with homework responsibility!
Important Dates:
September
20- Dentist
21- Skate Night
24- Boston Market Fundraiser
4 p.m. to close
24- Student Council “Back to School” Dance
27- Great America Cookie Sale
October
6-Dress Down Day for $1.00
7- 40th Day of School
11- Dentist
13- Grandparents’ Day
13- Report cards home. Half day with no lunch or after-school activities.
14 &15- Fall Break. No School.
September 17, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Curriculum News
Students should have been studying their multiplication facts this week. They were tested on those facts this Friday.
We continue to work on our math concepts. Subtracting larger numbers with borrowing continues to be a focus. We are also working on solving mathematical story problems and problems with missing addends.
We continue to read and write about the City of Ember. Students are working on “painting a picture” for their audience when they write. They are also working on using specific details to communicate clearly.
In social studies, students took a S.S. quiz on the concepts learned in their S.S. Weekly newspaper.
In science, we have been discussing inventors and their inventions. Students will be assigned a specific inventor to research and will write a research report to share with the class.
We’ve been playing some spelling games in class to help students master their weekly spelling words before the Friday test. Please encourage your child to log on to spellingcity.com to prepare for their test.
Ms Russell, our counselor, visited again on Thursday. She worked with the students on the meaning of integrity. Entertainment Books: Please return any unsold Entertainment books to school. These books need to be turned into the company.
Notes to Parents
Box Tops: The classrooms are having a contest to see who can bring in the most box tops. Please give any box tops to your child, so we can count them toward our box top amount.
Progress Reports: Thank you to all who signed and returned the progress report! I am still waiting for a few more. For those wanting a conference, I will make appointments on Wed., Oct. 6th. Please contact me if you’d like to set up a time.
Independent Reading: Please help your child remember to read each evening (at least 20 minutes), record the # of minutes on their reading calendar and write on their home reading log. This assignment is a nightly homework assignment. Students will be counting up how many minutes they read each month and graphing their progress at the end of every month.
Detention: Please remember that each time your child fails to turn in all homework assignments on a given day or has missing work 2 days in a row, they will have after school detention from 3:30-4:30 that day. Your child will call to notify you of the consequence. There is no detention on Wednesdays, so detention from that day must be served on Thursday. Most of the class is doing a fabulous job with homework responsibility!
Important Dates:
September
20- Dentist
21- Skate Night
24- Boston Market Fundraiser
4 p.m. to close
24- Student Council “Back to School” Dance
27- Great America Cookie Sale
October
6-Dress Down Day for $1.00
7- 40th Day of School
11- Dentist
13- Grandparents’ Day
13- Report cards home. Half day with no lunch or after-school activities.
14 &15- Fall Break. No School.
Friday, September 10, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
September 10, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
CONGRATULATIONS to:
Haylee Minier and Alexis Ortega for being selected to represent our class in student council!
Curriculum News:
Students will take their 2nd unit test in Math. We are still practicing multiplication facts and will continue to focus on subtraction facts as well. Remind your child to practice using the fun web sites I sent home (find the links on my teacher blog).
Students will have a vocabulary quiz next week. Our new words are: cartographer, cartography, opponent, landform, resonant, sum, difference, product, factor, innovation, innovative, longitude and latitude. Students will always be given advanced notice of a quiz or test.
In Reading, students are still enjoying the The City of Ember. We concentrated on the elements of setting this week.
In writing, we are learning how to write descriptive paragraphs. Students are being guided in “painting a picture” for their reader.
In Science, we started discussions about inventions and famous inventors.
In Social Studies, students have been learning a lot about geography and the 7 continents.
Mrs. Russell came to our room this Thursday. She focused on goal setting, moods and body language.
Progress Reports: Next week your child will bring home his/her progress report. Please discuss your child’s areas of strength and weakness. I am asking that you sign the form and return it with your child by next Friday.
Please keep in mind that we have only been in school for one month, and I am still getting to know your child’s strengths and weaknesses. The progress report will reflect core subject areas.
*Due to late work and absences requiring make up work, many students need to only turn in work on time for improvement to be shown.
Responsibility: Now that the students are in 5th grade, I have been talking with them about being responsible for their work. Many students will finish an in- class assignment and never hand it in, or will complete an assignment in the wrong notebook or never bring back a homework assignment. They know that this greatly impacts their grade. Receiving an “F” in a subject due to missing assignments or not following instructions is definitely avoidable.
I have told the students that school is their job- just like we as adults have jobs. They need to take responsibility for their own work.
This & That: Please take time to read the school newspaper “The Link,” which should come home at the beginning of every week. Look for it in your child’s homework folder.
Also please don’t forget to ask your child for our classroom newsletter which comes home every Friday.
Important Dates:September
10-Mid-quarter ends
17-Character movie in library 1:30
20-Dentist on Campus
21-Skate Night 6-8 p.m.
24-Boston Market Fundraiser
October
1-Movie Night
7-40th Day of School!
11-Order Halloween Grams
13- End of 1st Quarter.
½ day. No lunch or after school
Report cards home
14 & 15-Fall Break
September 10, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
CONGRATULATIONS to:
Haylee Minier and Alexis Ortega for being selected to represent our class in student council!
Curriculum News:
Students will take their 2nd unit test in Math. We are still practicing multiplication facts and will continue to focus on subtraction facts as well. Remind your child to practice using the fun web sites I sent home (find the links on my teacher blog).
Students will have a vocabulary quiz next week. Our new words are: cartographer, cartography, opponent, landform, resonant, sum, difference, product, factor, innovation, innovative, longitude and latitude. Students will always be given advanced notice of a quiz or test.
In Reading, students are still enjoying the The City of Ember. We concentrated on the elements of setting this week.
In writing, we are learning how to write descriptive paragraphs. Students are being guided in “painting a picture” for their reader.
In Science, we started discussions about inventions and famous inventors.
In Social Studies, students have been learning a lot about geography and the 7 continents.
Mrs. Russell came to our room this Thursday. She focused on goal setting, moods and body language.
Progress Reports: Next week your child will bring home his/her progress report. Please discuss your child’s areas of strength and weakness. I am asking that you sign the form and return it with your child by next Friday.
Please keep in mind that we have only been in school for one month, and I am still getting to know your child’s strengths and weaknesses. The progress report will reflect core subject areas.
*Due to late work and absences requiring make up work, many students need to only turn in work on time for improvement to be shown.
Responsibility: Now that the students are in 5th grade, I have been talking with them about being responsible for their work. Many students will finish an in- class assignment and never hand it in, or will complete an assignment in the wrong notebook or never bring back a homework assignment. They know that this greatly impacts their grade. Receiving an “F” in a subject due to missing assignments or not following instructions is definitely avoidable.
I have told the students that school is their job- just like we as adults have jobs. They need to take responsibility for their own work.
This & That: Please take time to read the school newspaper “The Link,” which should come home at the beginning of every week. Look for it in your child’s homework folder.
Also please don’t forget to ask your child for our classroom newsletter which comes home every Friday.
Important Dates:September
10-Mid-quarter ends
17-Character movie in library 1:30
20-Dentist on Campus
21-Skate Night 6-8 p.m.
24-Boston Market Fundraiser
October
1-Movie Night
7-40th Day of School!
11-Order Halloween Grams
13- End of 1st Quarter.
½ day. No lunch or after school
Report cards home
14 & 15-Fall Break
Friday, September 3, 2010
September 3rd Classroom News
Hello to 5th grade families! We had a great week of learning. Please encourage your child to stay on top of his/her assignments. Once they fall behind, it takes great effort to catch up. I hope you all have a wonderful, restful 3-day weekend.
Curriculum News:
Math: Students are still working on memorizing their subtraction facts. Another subtraction test was administered on Friday. We will begin working on multiplication facts. I will mix in subtraction facts along the way for continual practice.
Spelling: Students should be practicing their spelling words at home by completing their spelling packet. I have also asked them to have someone at home quiz them on their words so they will “ace” their spelling test on Fridays. They can also use the computer to practice their words. A great web site is www.spellingcity.com. Students type in their words and then can play word games or can be quizzed on their words. (You can access spelling city through my teacher blog as well.)
There will be no spelling list next week due to a shortened week
Reading: We are really enjoying The City of Ember. We are continuing to learn reading and writing strategies using this literature book. This week we have written literature responses and discussed character traits and setting.
In Social Studies: We have an informative and current social studies newspaper we will be using this year that is aligned with the state standards. Most of our lessons will be guided by our newspaper. Students will be bringing these home as we complete them. I think you will be impressed with the format.
Mrs. Russell, our school counselor, visited us on Thursday. Her
lesson focused on self assessment…behavior, academics and moods.
Science: We will kick off science with an invention unit. We will be discussing the character traits of inventors, such as openness, skepticism, integrity and tolerance. Thank you to all who were able to make it to open house. It was so nice getting to know you better
Notes to Parents:
Homework: As I mentioned previously, students will have math, a spelling packet (due at the end of the week) and independent reading for homework each evening. Occasionally students will need to complete something we started in class for homework as well.
We have discussed the importance of using planners to record assignments and then checking that planner each night as a reminder of what to do. Please allow your child at least an hour each evening to complete their homework in a quiet place. They know that when an assignment is late, points are taken off which results in a lower grade.
Blog: I am pleased to announce that you can read our classroom newsletter electronically. Each week I will place the newsletter on my teacher blog. You will find the blog by visiting the La Paloma Academy web site at (www.lpatucson.org). Click on “Mrs. Denny 5th Grade.” From my teacher home page, you will find a link to the blog. I will continue to send home a hard copy as well.
Detention: Due to many students not handing in homework, I am initiating a new rule. If your child comes to school without their homework, or incomplete homework, you will be notified that they will be in after school detention.
Child Information Sheet:
Thank you to those who returned the child information sheet that I sent home in the summer letter. If you have not yet filled out the informational form on your child, I would still love to have it. Please send it to school with your child in a sealed envelope.
Student Weekly Report: On Fridays, students will fill out a weekly report to let you know how their week was in school. Listed on this report will be any assignments turned in late for the week, as well as any assignments that were not turned in at all. Please discuss the report with your child, sign it and have your child return it on Monday along with their Friday Folder. There is a place for you to add any comments if you wish. Thank you for taking the time to read and discuss the Student Report you’re your child. This is an assignment that they earn homework points for when returned.
Incentives: Thank you to those of you who volunteered to send in treats for incentives. I would love for you to send in anything store bought. Packages of gummy bears, candy, or small treat bags are some ideas. We are also in need of fun little prizes to add to the prize box that students can purchase with Star Student Tickets that they have earned. Many prizes can come from the dollar store. Some ideas might be fun pens or pencils, small games or puzzles, stickers, small supplies to use in the classroom, etc.
Newsworthy Notes
September
6- No School. Labor Day
8- Entertainment Book Sale Ends
13- Mid-Quarter
20- Dentist
21- Skate Night 6-8 p.m.
24- Boston Market Fundraiser
27- Cookie Sale Begins
Congratulations to Gigi Adduci for winning the Trustworthy Character Drawing. She will attend lunch with the principal!
Curriculum News:
Math: Students are still working on memorizing their subtraction facts. Another subtraction test was administered on Friday. We will begin working on multiplication facts. I will mix in subtraction facts along the way for continual practice.
Spelling: Students should be practicing their spelling words at home by completing their spelling packet. I have also asked them to have someone at home quiz them on their words so they will “ace” their spelling test on Fridays. They can also use the computer to practice their words. A great web site is www.spellingcity.com. Students type in their words and then can play word games or can be quizzed on their words. (You can access spelling city through my teacher blog as well.)
There will be no spelling list next week due to a shortened week
Reading: We are really enjoying The City of Ember. We are continuing to learn reading and writing strategies using this literature book. This week we have written literature responses and discussed character traits and setting.
In Social Studies: We have an informative and current social studies newspaper we will be using this year that is aligned with the state standards. Most of our lessons will be guided by our newspaper. Students will be bringing these home as we complete them. I think you will be impressed with the format.
Mrs. Russell, our school counselor, visited us on Thursday. Her
lesson focused on self assessment…behavior, academics and moods.
Science: We will kick off science with an invention unit. We will be discussing the character traits of inventors, such as openness, skepticism, integrity and tolerance. Thank you to all who were able to make it to open house. It was so nice getting to know you better
Notes to Parents:
Homework: As I mentioned previously, students will have math, a spelling packet (due at the end of the week) and independent reading for homework each evening. Occasionally students will need to complete something we started in class for homework as well.
We have discussed the importance of using planners to record assignments and then checking that planner each night as a reminder of what to do. Please allow your child at least an hour each evening to complete their homework in a quiet place. They know that when an assignment is late, points are taken off which results in a lower grade.
Blog: I am pleased to announce that you can read our classroom newsletter electronically. Each week I will place the newsletter on my teacher blog. You will find the blog by visiting the La Paloma Academy web site at (www.lpatucson.org). Click on “Mrs. Denny 5th Grade.” From my teacher home page, you will find a link to the blog. I will continue to send home a hard copy as well.
Detention: Due to many students not handing in homework, I am initiating a new rule. If your child comes to school without their homework, or incomplete homework, you will be notified that they will be in after school detention.
Child Information Sheet:
Thank you to those who returned the child information sheet that I sent home in the summer letter. If you have not yet filled out the informational form on your child, I would still love to have it. Please send it to school with your child in a sealed envelope.
Student Weekly Report: On Fridays, students will fill out a weekly report to let you know how their week was in school. Listed on this report will be any assignments turned in late for the week, as well as any assignments that were not turned in at all. Please discuss the report with your child, sign it and have your child return it on Monday along with their Friday Folder. There is a place for you to add any comments if you wish. Thank you for taking the time to read and discuss the Student Report you’re your child. This is an assignment that they earn homework points for when returned.
Incentives: Thank you to those of you who volunteered to send in treats for incentives. I would love for you to send in anything store bought. Packages of gummy bears, candy, or small treat bags are some ideas. We are also in need of fun little prizes to add to the prize box that students can purchase with Star Student Tickets that they have earned. Many prizes can come from the dollar store. Some ideas might be fun pens or pencils, small games or puzzles, stickers, small supplies to use in the classroom, etc.
Newsworthy Notes
September
6- No School. Labor Day
8- Entertainment Book Sale Ends
13- Mid-Quarter
20- Dentist
21- Skate Night 6-8 p.m.
24- Boston Market Fundraiser
27- Cookie Sale Begins
Congratulations to Gigi Adduci for winning the Trustworthy Character Drawing. She will attend lunch with the principal!
Friday, August 27, 2010
August 27th Classroom News
Hello Parents,
Well, we've been in school for a little over 2 weeks now, and we're really getting to know each other quite well. Thank you for sharing your children with me.
I would like to thank all of the parents who sent in extra classroom supplies! We usually need to re-stock mid-year, so additional supplies are very much appreciated.
Classroom News:
Homework: Most students are bringing back their homework each day…Yeah!
Some are still having trouble remembering to read and write a short 1-2 sentence summary on their home reading log. Please remind your child to complete his/her independent reading assignment each evening. In addition, they are to be recording how many minutes they read each evening on their independent reading calendar.
Spelling: 5th grade spelling will be introduced to your child on Monday.
Spelling words will be introduced on most Mondays with a test to follow on Friday. Students will receive their spelling homework packet on Monday and have the option of pacing themselves throughout the week or completing it all in one evening. I did suggest, however, it is probably better to do one page each night, so they are practicing the new words a little each day. We will also work with the words during class.
Vocabulary: Students will receive new vocabulary words every 2 weeks. We will practice using these words in class and they should be studying these words at home. Students will have a vocabulary quiz next Friday.
Our new words are: endeavor, historian, primary source, secondary source, artifact, chronological, archeologist, and catastrophe.
Math: Students are working hard in math. We have completed up through lesson 10. Students took their official subtraction facts test today. Students should continue to study subtraction. We will begin to focus on multiplication facts next week.
Reading:
We continue to read The City of Ember. We are also doing some writing related to the book.
Social Studies: Students are learning how to navigate an expository text book. This week we focused on what historians do as well as primary and secondary sources.
Mrs. Russell, our counselor, introduced herself to the students this week. She will be working on several goals with the students, many of which relate to our 6 character pillars.
Ms. Molina, our art teacher, works with the students on Fridays. She will be introducing various artists all year.
Ms. Jenny, our P.E. teacher, has been working on sun safety with the students.
Notes to Parents
FYI: I have been assessing students’ reading and writing abilities all week. This has taken a lot of class time; therefore, we have not delved into science as of yet. We will begin learning about inventions next week and will embark on an inventor research project in the near future….stay tuned. Thank you for returning the student information sheets. If you did not provide me with your email address, I am asking that you send me an email (address above), so I can save your address into my contacts. Email is the best way to communicate with me. I usually check my mail once a day and will get back to you within 48 hours.
Open House: I look forward to seeing everyone next Wednesday at 6 p.m.
Don’t forget…you can also visit the book fair during Open House.
Absent Students: Students have been notified that it is their responsibility to make up work when absent. I will not continually ask them to turn in specific assignments that were assigned while they were out. Students are given one day to make up work for every day that they are absent. Upon their return, students receive a list of assignments that they missed while they were absent. Students MUST be responsible for completing the assignments on their own.
If assignments are not turned in to me in a timely manner, they will not receive any credit for those assignments. Please ask your child about his/her make-up work and encourage them to be responsible.
Volunteers: Don’t forget to sign up to be fingerprinted if you wish to volunteer. You can pick up the paperwork at the front office.
Thank you for helping your child get to school on time each day. It truly makes a difference in how their day goes!
Also…thank you for allowing your child to stay in school until the bell rings. The end of the day is valuable time to discuss homework and tie up loose ends.
Important Dates:
8/23-9/8 Entertainment book sales. All profits will definitely impact students.
8/30 Book Fair Begins
8/31 School Pictures
9/1 Dress Down Day for $1.00
Open House 6-8 p.m.
9/6 Labor Day. No School
9/10 Mid Quarter Ends
9/20 Dentist
9/21 Skate Country 6-8 pm
9/27 Great American Cookie Sale
Well, we've been in school for a little over 2 weeks now, and we're really getting to know each other quite well. Thank you for sharing your children with me.
I would like to thank all of the parents who sent in extra classroom supplies! We usually need to re-stock mid-year, so additional supplies are very much appreciated.
Classroom News:
Homework: Most students are bringing back their homework each day…Yeah!
Some are still having trouble remembering to read and write a short 1-2 sentence summary on their home reading log. Please remind your child to complete his/her independent reading assignment each evening. In addition, they are to be recording how many minutes they read each evening on their independent reading calendar.
Spelling: 5th grade spelling will be introduced to your child on Monday.
Spelling words will be introduced on most Mondays with a test to follow on Friday. Students will receive their spelling homework packet on Monday and have the option of pacing themselves throughout the week or completing it all in one evening. I did suggest, however, it is probably better to do one page each night, so they are practicing the new words a little each day. We will also work with the words during class.
Vocabulary: Students will receive new vocabulary words every 2 weeks. We will practice using these words in class and they should be studying these words at home. Students will have a vocabulary quiz next Friday.
Our new words are: endeavor, historian, primary source, secondary source, artifact, chronological, archeologist, and catastrophe.
Math: Students are working hard in math. We have completed up through lesson 10. Students took their official subtraction facts test today. Students should continue to study subtraction. We will begin to focus on multiplication facts next week.
Reading:
We continue to read The City of Ember. We are also doing some writing related to the book.
Social Studies: Students are learning how to navigate an expository text book. This week we focused on what historians do as well as primary and secondary sources.
Mrs. Russell, our counselor, introduced herself to the students this week. She will be working on several goals with the students, many of which relate to our 6 character pillars.
Ms. Molina, our art teacher, works with the students on Fridays. She will be introducing various artists all year.
Ms. Jenny, our P.E. teacher, has been working on sun safety with the students.
Notes to Parents
FYI: I have been assessing students’ reading and writing abilities all week. This has taken a lot of class time; therefore, we have not delved into science as of yet. We will begin learning about inventions next week and will embark on an inventor research project in the near future….stay tuned. Thank you for returning the student information sheets. If you did not provide me with your email address, I am asking that you send me an email (address above), so I can save your address into my contacts. Email is the best way to communicate with me. I usually check my mail once a day and will get back to you within 48 hours.
Open House: I look forward to seeing everyone next Wednesday at 6 p.m.
Don’t forget…you can also visit the book fair during Open House.
Absent Students: Students have been notified that it is their responsibility to make up work when absent. I will not continually ask them to turn in specific assignments that were assigned while they were out. Students are given one day to make up work for every day that they are absent. Upon their return, students receive a list of assignments that they missed while they were absent. Students MUST be responsible for completing the assignments on their own.
If assignments are not turned in to me in a timely manner, they will not receive any credit for those assignments. Please ask your child about his/her make-up work and encourage them to be responsible.
Volunteers: Don’t forget to sign up to be fingerprinted if you wish to volunteer. You can pick up the paperwork at the front office.
Thank you for helping your child get to school on time each day. It truly makes a difference in how their day goes!
Also…thank you for allowing your child to stay in school until the bell rings. The end of the day is valuable time to discuss homework and tie up loose ends.
Important Dates:
8/23-9/8 Entertainment book sales. All profits will definitely impact students.
8/30 Book Fair Begins
8/31 School Pictures
9/1 Dress Down Day for $1.00
Open House 6-8 p.m.
9/6 Labor Day. No School
9/10 Mid Quarter Ends
9/20 Dentist
9/21 Skate Country 6-8 pm
9/27 Great American Cookie Sale
Sunday, August 22, 2010
August 20th Classroom News
Curriculum News
Students have been taking beginning of the year assessments. It has been noted that many are still weak in their math facts (especially subtraction, multiplication and division). Please see parent letter/packet that was sent home with your child today.
I have asked students to make it a goal to practice on their own. Once they know a fact, they should be able to answer that fact in less than 3 seconds. Please encourage your child to practice:
www.funbrain.com
www.playkidsgame.com
www.freerice.com
www.math.com
We kicked off our Saxon Math program this week. We completed lessons 3-7 which focus on numbers and numeration. Each week we will also focus on a supplemental math skill. This week was graphing.
We have started our Character Counts lessons. We reviewed the 6 pillars of character and will be working on a separate pillar each month. We will begin with Trustworthiness and move on to Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship.
We have begun to read The City of Ember. What a great story to start the year. Students are learning “good reader” strategies, and we are integrating writing into our story time.
If your child still does not have his/her copy of the book, please try Borders, Barnes & Noble, Bookman’s or the public library to secure a copy.
We began Social Studies this week with an expository text scavenger hunt. Students will be learning strategies that will help them read expository text with greater ease this year.
Art and P.E. are in full swing. Please remind your child to wear athletic shoes on Tuesday and Thursday for P.E. class.
Parent Information
I wanted to let you know what a joy your children are to work with. They each have their own talents and special personalities.
A little about me…
I have been involved in education for over 20 years. I have my master’s degree in education and am currently working on my reading endorsement.
I have a husband, Steve, as well as two boys in Jr. High and High School. We spend a lot of time at football fields and in basketball gyms.
Homework: We are off and running with home-
work. As mentioned in the welcome back letter, students will receive 5 homework points each day when they return every assignment on that due date.
This past week, quite a few students have had homework points deducted. I spoke to the children about being responsible (which is one of our character pillars). If homework responsibility does not improve, I will start to issue after school detention to those who have missing assignments. Please check in with your child on a daily basis to discuss homework.
Your child will have independent reading, math and spelling most evenings. On some nights, students may have unfinished work or a study guide for an upcoming test.
Students are to record their homework assignments on the appropriate date in their planner. They should use their planner as a guide at home to complete homework.
Independent Reading:
Students are to record their reading minutes each night and write a 1-2 sentence summary after they have read. Students should also record any minutes read over the weekend (optional). The home reading log should be returned each Monday along with the Weekly Student Report.
Please help your child complete their homework by providing a quiet place to work each night and a reminder to bring their work to school each day.
If you need to contact me for any reason, please email me at denny@lpatucson.org or call the school office at 721-4205. I will check my email once a day, so I may not get back to you until the next day. Thank you.
PLEASE help your child to arrive at school on time. When he/she is late, it impacts their entire day. They miss out on the morning routine and instructions for the day and feel flustered about trying to catch up. I am hoping you will make it a top priority.
On the flip side, the end of the day is crucial as well. As a class, we clarify the homework for the day, hand out any notes to go home and discuss any reminders. Please allow your child to be in school the entire day.
IMPORTANT
Volunteers: Please note that in order to volunteer at school (including field trips), you need to fill out a form and be finger-printed. You can pick up the paperwork at the front desk. Dates to be fingerprinted will be posted at the front office.
Newsworthy Notes
8/23-9/8: Entertainment Book Sale Begins. Our class can win great prizes if we are the first class to turn in our orders.
8/30-9/3: The Book Fair will be set up in the library all next week. It will be open after school from 3:15-4:30 Tuesday through Thursday.
The book fair will also be open during open house.
9/1: 6-8 p.m. - Open House.
9/1: 1st Dress down day. Your choice if you bring one dollar. (Remember…no spaghetti straps, short skirts or flip flops.)
9/6: Labor Day. No School!
9/20: Dentist
9/21: Skate Night 6-8 p.m.
9/27: Picture Day. Please come dressed in the school uniform.
9/27: Cookie Sales Begin
Students have been taking beginning of the year assessments. It has been noted that many are still weak in their math facts (especially subtraction, multiplication and division). Please see parent letter/packet that was sent home with your child today.
I have asked students to make it a goal to practice on their own. Once they know a fact, they should be able to answer that fact in less than 3 seconds. Please encourage your child to practice:
www.funbrain.com
www.playkidsgame.com
www.freerice.com
www.math.com
We kicked off our Saxon Math program this week. We completed lessons 3-7 which focus on numbers and numeration. Each week we will also focus on a supplemental math skill. This week was graphing.
We have started our Character Counts lessons. We reviewed the 6 pillars of character and will be working on a separate pillar each month. We will begin with Trustworthiness and move on to Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship.
We have begun to read The City of Ember. What a great story to start the year. Students are learning “good reader” strategies, and we are integrating writing into our story time.
If your child still does not have his/her copy of the book, please try Borders, Barnes & Noble, Bookman’s or the public library to secure a copy.
We began Social Studies this week with an expository text scavenger hunt. Students will be learning strategies that will help them read expository text with greater ease this year.
Art and P.E. are in full swing. Please remind your child to wear athletic shoes on Tuesday and Thursday for P.E. class.
Parent Information
I wanted to let you know what a joy your children are to work with. They each have their own talents and special personalities.
A little about me…
I have been involved in education for over 20 years. I have my master’s degree in education and am currently working on my reading endorsement.
I have a husband, Steve, as well as two boys in Jr. High and High School. We spend a lot of time at football fields and in basketball gyms.
Homework: We are off and running with home-
work. As mentioned in the welcome back letter, students will receive 5 homework points each day when they return every assignment on that due date.
This past week, quite a few students have had homework points deducted. I spoke to the children about being responsible (which is one of our character pillars). If homework responsibility does not improve, I will start to issue after school detention to those who have missing assignments. Please check in with your child on a daily basis to discuss homework.
Your child will have independent reading, math and spelling most evenings. On some nights, students may have unfinished work or a study guide for an upcoming test.
Students are to record their homework assignments on the appropriate date in their planner. They should use their planner as a guide at home to complete homework.
Independent Reading:
Students are to record their reading minutes each night and write a 1-2 sentence summary after they have read. Students should also record any minutes read over the weekend (optional). The home reading log should be returned each Monday along with the Weekly Student Report.
Please help your child complete their homework by providing a quiet place to work each night and a reminder to bring their work to school each day.
If you need to contact me for any reason, please email me at denny@lpatucson.org or call the school office at 721-4205. I will check my email once a day, so I may not get back to you until the next day. Thank you.
PLEASE help your child to arrive at school on time. When he/she is late, it impacts their entire day. They miss out on the morning routine and instructions for the day and feel flustered about trying to catch up. I am hoping you will make it a top priority.
On the flip side, the end of the day is crucial as well. As a class, we clarify the homework for the day, hand out any notes to go home and discuss any reminders. Please allow your child to be in school the entire day.
IMPORTANT
Volunteers: Please note that in order to volunteer at school (including field trips), you need to fill out a form and be finger-printed. You can pick up the paperwork at the front desk. Dates to be fingerprinted will be posted at the front office.
Newsworthy Notes
8/23-9/8: Entertainment Book Sale Begins. Our class can win great prizes if we are the first class to turn in our orders.
8/30-9/3: The Book Fair will be set up in the library all next week. It will be open after school from 3:15-4:30 Tuesday through Thursday.
The book fair will also be open during open house.
9/1: 6-8 p.m. - Open House.
9/1: 1st Dress down day. Your choice if you bring one dollar. (Remember…no spaghetti straps, short skirts or flip flops.)
9/6: Labor Day. No School!
9/20: Dentist
9/21: Skate Night 6-8 p.m.
9/27: Picture Day. Please come dressed in the school uniform.
9/27: Cookie Sales Begin
Monday, August 9, 2010
Welcome to the 2010-2011 School Year!
Welcome to 5th Grade! I am looking forward to meeting all of you. I hope you received the beginning of the year letter from me. It included a reminder about classroom supplies (see below). We will be organizing supplies on the first day and preparing for an exciting academic year.
The first day of school is Thursday, August 12. It is a full day with dismissal at 3:15. Students may bring their own lunch from home that day, or they may eat the school lunch. Since our first day back is going to be one of the hottest days yet this summer, I would encourage students to bring a sealed water bottle to school as well as a snack for break time.
Each week I will send home a classroom newsletter; however, I will also post the newsletter on this blog site for your convenience. Please feel free to email me with any questions or concerns at denny@lpatucson.org.
I look forward to seeing everyone on August 12th.
Best Regards~
Mrs. Denny
5th Grade Supplies:
1 LPA planner (available at front office for $2)
6 boxes of #2 pencils
3 packs of 3x5 notecards
1 copy of the book The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
6 packs of wide-ruled paper
2 boxes of pencil cap erasers
1 pack of dry erase markers
2 packs of green, red or purple pens
1 bottle of glue
l pack of glue sticks
1 package of colored construction paper
1 pair of fiskar scissors
1 pack of printer paper
20 plain (no pictures) spiral notebooks
1 hand held pencil sharpener
8 pocket folders
2 plain pocket folders with prongs
1 box of colored markers
1 box of colored pencils, sharpened
4 boxes of kleenex
2 bottles of hand sanitizer
1 box of quart size Ziploc bags
1 zipper pencil bag to keep small items together in student desk
1 pkg. of peppermint candy (nurse's office)
1 travel size deodorant (nurse's office)
The first day of school is Thursday, August 12. It is a full day with dismissal at 3:15. Students may bring their own lunch from home that day, or they may eat the school lunch. Since our first day back is going to be one of the hottest days yet this summer, I would encourage students to bring a sealed water bottle to school as well as a snack for break time.
Each week I will send home a classroom newsletter; however, I will also post the newsletter on this blog site for your convenience. Please feel free to email me with any questions or concerns at denny@lpatucson.org.
I look forward to seeing everyone on August 12th.
Best Regards~
Mrs. Denny
5th Grade Supplies:
1 LPA planner (available at front office for $2)
6 boxes of #2 pencils
3 packs of 3x5 notecards
1 copy of the book The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
6 packs of wide-ruled paper
2 boxes of pencil cap erasers
1 pack of dry erase markers
2 packs of green, red or purple pens
1 bottle of glue
l pack of glue sticks
1 package of colored construction paper
1 pair of fiskar scissors
1 pack of printer paper
20 plain (no pictures) spiral notebooks
1 hand held pencil sharpener
8 pocket folders
2 plain pocket folders with prongs
1 box of colored markers
1 box of colored pencils, sharpened
4 boxes of kleenex
2 bottles of hand sanitizer
1 box of quart size Ziploc bags
1 zipper pencil bag to keep small items together in student desk
1 pkg. of peppermint candy (nurse's office)
1 travel size deodorant (nurse's office)
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
Last Newsletter
denny@lpatucson.org
Important Dates
May:
24- Lucky Strike Bowling Trip
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School- ½ day, no after school. Regular Friday Dress Code Applies.
Academics:
Science- We are almost finished viewing the wonderful planet power point presentations. The students did a fantastic job collecting information about their planet and creating their presentation.
Social Studies: We are working on the pillars of character and exploration.
Reading: We are going to try and finish the book, The Sign of the Beaver, by Elizabeth George Speare.
If we do not finish the book in class, this might be a good choice for summer reading.
Writing: We will be self-assessing this week.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell did a yearly review of all counseling lessons this year. She asked students how they have changed this year.
Summer Work: I highly recommend that your child continues to practice reading, writing and math over the summer.
Checking out a book or two from the library and keeping a literature log about what they are reading is a wonderful way to practice both reading and writing.
Working out of a math workbook and/or practicing math facts a few times per week will also ensure that your child is maintaining all of the skills they learned this year (workbooks can be found at teacher stores, Target, Walmart and even the dollar store).
A Note from Mrs. Denny:
I want to thank you all for a wonderful year. I have enjoyed these students and wish them all the best in 6th grade. Our room is full of personality, and I will miss each and every one of them.
Lost Text Books: All text books will be collected on Monday, May 24th. If your child has lost a text book this year, they will not receive their report card until a replacement fee of $45.00 is paid at the front desk. I will send home notes to those students who have lost books.
Lost Literature Books: Some students have lost their copy of the Sign of the Beaver. These books cost $5.00 to replace. I will send home a note with your child if he/she has lost this book. Report cards will be held until the replacement fee is paid to me or at the front desk.
5th Grade Fun Day: On Tuesday, May 25th, the 5th grade will be celebrating the end of a successful year. We will be playing kickball and having a barbeque with our 5th grade friends. Please have your child wear sunscreen. I will tell your child what the dress code is for the day on Monday.
Poetry Books: Don’t forget…the poetry books will be back from the publisher in the middle of June. You may stop by the office and pick up your child’s book after June 21st. You will treasure this keepsake forever!
Communication: Don’t forget if there is a week that your child does not show you our class newsletter, you can always go onto the LPA web site, click on “Central Teachers”, click on “Mrs. Denny” and then click on “Blogspot” to read it electronically.
Last Newsletter
denny@lpatucson.org
Important Dates
May:
24- Lucky Strike Bowling Trip
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School- ½ day, no after school. Regular Friday Dress Code Applies.
Academics:
Science- We are almost finished viewing the wonderful planet power point presentations. The students did a fantastic job collecting information about their planet and creating their presentation.
Social Studies: We are working on the pillars of character and exploration.
Reading: We are going to try and finish the book, The Sign of the Beaver, by Elizabeth George Speare.
If we do not finish the book in class, this might be a good choice for summer reading.
Writing: We will be self-assessing this week.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell did a yearly review of all counseling lessons this year. She asked students how they have changed this year.
Summer Work: I highly recommend that your child continues to practice reading, writing and math over the summer.
Checking out a book or two from the library and keeping a literature log about what they are reading is a wonderful way to practice both reading and writing.
Working out of a math workbook and/or practicing math facts a few times per week will also ensure that your child is maintaining all of the skills they learned this year (workbooks can be found at teacher stores, Target, Walmart and even the dollar store).
A Note from Mrs. Denny:
I want to thank you all for a wonderful year. I have enjoyed these students and wish them all the best in 6th grade. Our room is full of personality, and I will miss each and every one of them.
Lost Text Books: All text books will be collected on Monday, May 24th. If your child has lost a text book this year, they will not receive their report card until a replacement fee of $45.00 is paid at the front desk. I will send home notes to those students who have lost books.
Lost Literature Books: Some students have lost their copy of the Sign of the Beaver. These books cost $5.00 to replace. I will send home a note with your child if he/she has lost this book. Report cards will be held until the replacement fee is paid to me or at the front desk.
5th Grade Fun Day: On Tuesday, May 25th, the 5th grade will be celebrating the end of a successful year. We will be playing kickball and having a barbeque with our 5th grade friends. Please have your child wear sunscreen. I will tell your child what the dress code is for the day on Monday.
Poetry Books: Don’t forget…the poetry books will be back from the publisher in the middle of June. You may stop by the office and pick up your child’s book after June 21st. You will treasure this keepsake forever!
Communication: Don’t forget if there is a week that your child does not show you our class newsletter, you can always go onto the LPA web site, click on “Central Teachers”, click on “Mrs. Denny” and then click on “Blogspot” to read it electronically.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
May 14, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
ACADEMICS
Mystery Book Reports:
Many students did not turn in their book report on time (12 students). They know that points are deducted each day that the report is late. This will impact their reading grade.
Science- The solar system is still our focus this week.
Moon journals were turned in on Friday. We will be discussing the results.
Power Point Presentations:
Most students have completed their planet power point presentation.
I would like us all to be able to share them with the whole class. I need your help in this:
If your student was finished this Thursday, their slides were put onto a flash drive by Ms. Cook.
If they were not finished, I need your help:
1. Supply your child with a flash drive so they can transfer their presentation to the drive, and we can show it in class on my laptop. OR
2. Allow your child to use a family email account from school so he/she can send an email with the Power Point attached to your (or your child’s) email address. Once this has been done, you and your child can then send the presentation to me at: denny@lpatucson.org
Social studies- Students worked on cooperation skills this week. We will concentrate on exploration next week.
Math:
A math test was will be given next Tuesday. Students were given a practice test for homework on Friday to help them prepare.
Spelling: Multi-syllabic word test will be given next Tuesday.
Reading: The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare.
Writing: Journal prompts; research and literature responses were the focus this week.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell worked with students on career goals again.
PARENT NOTES:
Teacher Appreciation: Thank you to all who made me feel special for teacher appreciation. Your children are awesome!
Field Day was a blast! It was a great time to come together as a community. Thank you to all those who sent in oranges and water!
Lost Text Books: All text books will be collected on Monday, May 24th. If your child has lost a text book this year, they will not receive their report card until a replacement fee of $45.00 is paid at the front desk. I will send home notes to those students who have lost books.
Field Trip Reminder: Be sure to turn in the bowling permission slip and money. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please send cash, or a check payable to “Lucky Strike Bowling.” Our volunteer chaperones will be Ms. Cosby, Ms. Campas and Mrs. Childs.
Poetry Books: Don’t forget…the poetry books will be back from the publisher in the middle of June. You may stop by the office and pick up your child’s book after June 21st.
Communication: Don’t forget if there is a week that your child does not show you our class newsletter, you can always go onto the LPA web site, click on “Central Teachers”, click on “Mrs. Denny” and then click on “Blogspot” to read it electronically.
Important Dates
May:
24- Lucky Strike Bowling Trip
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School
May 14, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
ACADEMICS
Mystery Book Reports:
Many students did not turn in their book report on time (12 students). They know that points are deducted each day that the report is late. This will impact their reading grade.
Science- The solar system is still our focus this week.
Moon journals were turned in on Friday. We will be discussing the results.
Power Point Presentations:
Most students have completed their planet power point presentation.
I would like us all to be able to share them with the whole class. I need your help in this:
If your student was finished this Thursday, their slides were put onto a flash drive by Ms. Cook.
If they were not finished, I need your help:
1. Supply your child with a flash drive so they can transfer their presentation to the drive, and we can show it in class on my laptop. OR
2. Allow your child to use a family email account from school so he/she can send an email with the Power Point attached to your (or your child’s) email address. Once this has been done, you and your child can then send the presentation to me at: denny@lpatucson.org
Social studies- Students worked on cooperation skills this week. We will concentrate on exploration next week.
Math:
A math test was will be given next Tuesday. Students were given a practice test for homework on Friday to help them prepare.
Spelling: Multi-syllabic word test will be given next Tuesday.
Reading: The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare.
Writing: Journal prompts; research and literature responses were the focus this week.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell worked with students on career goals again.
PARENT NOTES:
Teacher Appreciation: Thank you to all who made me feel special for teacher appreciation. Your children are awesome!
Field Day was a blast! It was a great time to come together as a community. Thank you to all those who sent in oranges and water!
Lost Text Books: All text books will be collected on Monday, May 24th. If your child has lost a text book this year, they will not receive their report card until a replacement fee of $45.00 is paid at the front desk. I will send home notes to those students who have lost books.
Field Trip Reminder: Be sure to turn in the bowling permission slip and money. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please send cash, or a check payable to “Lucky Strike Bowling.” Our volunteer chaperones will be Ms. Cosby, Ms. Campas and Mrs. Childs.
Poetry Books: Don’t forget…the poetry books will be back from the publisher in the middle of June. You may stop by the office and pick up your child’s book after June 21st.
Communication: Don’t forget if there is a week that your child does not show you our class newsletter, you can always go onto the LPA web site, click on “Central Teachers”, click on “Mrs. Denny” and then click on “Blogspot” to read it electronically.
Important Dates
May:
24- Lucky Strike Bowling Trip
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School
Monday, May 10, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
May 7, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Academics
Mystery book reports are due May 12.
Science-. Students should continue to observe the moon. If students cannot see the moon (it may have set by the time they observe), they are to describe the night in their moon journal and draw what it “should” look like based on class discussions.
Students are still creating their planet Power Point presentations.
Social studies- Students worked in cooperative groups to learn about specific Native American tribes. They presented that information to the class on Wednesday.
We will begin our exploration unit next week.
Math: Ratios, division, fractions, decimals.
A math test was given last week.
Students were given the opportunity to correct errors on their test to improve their grade.
Spelling: Multi-syllabic words were the focus again this week.
Reading: Science content reading has been a big focus this week.
We will begin a new literature book next week: The Sign of the Beaver
by Elizabeth George Speare.
Writing: We conducted many Authors’ Circles this week to share the mixed-up animal stories. Students were proud to show off their imaginative stories.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell was absent this week.
Notes to Parents
Communication: Don’t forget if there is a week that your child does not show you our class newsletter, you can always go onto the LPA web site, click on “Central Teachers”, click on “Mrs. Denny” and then click on “Blogspot” to read it electronically.
Field Day: The K-5 field day will occur next Wednesday. We need donations of water and cut up oranges. If you can send in a case of water or some bags of cut up oranges for the students, we would be grateful.
Students are allowed to wear swim suits under their clothing, but shirts and shorts must remain on.
Please have your child bring a towel that day as well.
Field Trip: Permission slips went home on Thursday for our bowling field trip on Monday, May 24th.. We will bowl in the morning and enjoy a pizza lunch afterwards. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please send cash, or a check payable to “Lucky Strike Bowling.”
Poetry Books: Don’t forget…the poetry books will be back from the publisher in the middle of June. You may stop by the office and pick up your child’s book after June 21st.
Attendance: Students were excited to see that we had perfect attendance on Tuesday and Thursday of this week…and all students arrived on time on Tuesday!
Thank you for making it a priority to get your child to school on time each day.
May:
12 Field Day
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School
May 7, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Academics
Mystery book reports are due May 12.
Science-. Students should continue to observe the moon. If students cannot see the moon (it may have set by the time they observe), they are to describe the night in their moon journal and draw what it “should” look like based on class discussions.
Students are still creating their planet Power Point presentations.
Social studies- Students worked in cooperative groups to learn about specific Native American tribes. They presented that information to the class on Wednesday.
We will begin our exploration unit next week.
Math: Ratios, division, fractions, decimals.
A math test was given last week.
Students were given the opportunity to correct errors on their test to improve their grade.
Spelling: Multi-syllabic words were the focus again this week.
Reading: Science content reading has been a big focus this week.
We will begin a new literature book next week: The Sign of the Beaver
by Elizabeth George Speare.
Writing: We conducted many Authors’ Circles this week to share the mixed-up animal stories. Students were proud to show off their imaginative stories.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell was absent this week.
Notes to Parents
Communication: Don’t forget if there is a week that your child does not show you our class newsletter, you can always go onto the LPA web site, click on “Central Teachers”, click on “Mrs. Denny” and then click on “Blogspot” to read it electronically.
Field Day: The K-5 field day will occur next Wednesday. We need donations of water and cut up oranges. If you can send in a case of water or some bags of cut up oranges for the students, we would be grateful.
Students are allowed to wear swim suits under their clothing, but shirts and shorts must remain on.
Please have your child bring a towel that day as well.
Field Trip: Permission slips went home on Thursday for our bowling field trip on Monday, May 24th.. We will bowl in the morning and enjoy a pizza lunch afterwards. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please send cash, or a check payable to “Lucky Strike Bowling.”
Poetry Books: Don’t forget…the poetry books will be back from the publisher in the middle of June. You may stop by the office and pick up your child’s book after June 21st.
Attendance: Students were excited to see that we had perfect attendance on Tuesday and Thursday of this week…and all students arrived on time on Tuesday!
Thank you for making it a priority to get your child to school on time each day.
May:
12 Field Day
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
April 30, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Classroom News
Mystery book reports are due May 12.
Science-. Students began their moon journal on Wednesday. They are to observe the moon each evening and document information in their journal for at least 14 days.
Planet research is underway. Students were introduced to the Power Point program and have begun researching. Please take your student to the public library to get some books on his/her planet.
Social studies-. We will begin our mini-research project about a particular Indian culture on Friday. Students are learning about the following Indian groups: Creek, Mississippian, Matah, Aztec and Iroquois.
Math: Dividing by 3-digit numbers, ratios, dividing fractions and simplifying. A unit test was given on Friday.
Spelling: Multi-syllabic words with suffixes.
Reading: We have been reading a lot of informational text in social studies and science. We are still continuing with mysteries, as well.
Writing: Final copies of the animal stories are due by Monday. We will look forward to sharing them.
The poetry books will be sent out for publishing on Friday. They will be here on campus in the summer time. Stop by and pick up your child’s book after June 21st.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell is continuing her lessons careers and life choices.
Notes for Parents
Progress Reports: Progress reports went home on Wednesday. Please sign and return the report by Monday, May 3.
Puberty Class: Class was canceled this week. Ms. Brenda and Mr. Moore will get the classes going next week.
Picture Packets: Picture packets are overdue. If you’d like to purchase the pictures, send your check in the envelope provided and any unwanted pictures back to school as soon as possible.
Field Trip: On Monday, May 24th, our class will celebrate the end of the year with a bowling party at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley. We will bowl in the morning and enjoy a pizza lunch afterwards. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please watch for the future permission slip to come home.
Late Work: Please remember that handing in late assignments impacts your child’s grades. Even losing 5 points for a late assignment can drop a student’s grade a whole letter grade.
Although the end of the year is near, please remind your students that there is still much work to be done. It is easy for even a dedicated student to lose focus and concentration this time of year. Please encourage your child to stay focused, work hard and complete assignments on time. Finish “the race” strong!
Independent Reading: “The more you read, the more you know AND…the more you know, the more you’ll read.”
Independent reading is part of students’ nightly homework. Many students are not completing this part of their homework. Reading is crucial to your child’s success. The more they practice reading, the better they will become at word solving, vocabulary, comprehension, fluency and writing. Please make sure you are helping your child in this endeavor by signing their calendar each evening once they have read.
Important Dates
May:
3-7 Book Fair.
3-7 Teacher Appreciation Week
5- $1.00 Dress down day!
7- Pancake Breakfast w/ Principal
12-Field Day
26-Yearbook Signing
28-Last Day of School
April 30, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Classroom News
Mystery book reports are due May 12.
Science-. Students began their moon journal on Wednesday. They are to observe the moon each evening and document information in their journal for at least 14 days.
Planet research is underway. Students were introduced to the Power Point program and have begun researching. Please take your student to the public library to get some books on his/her planet.
Social studies-. We will begin our mini-research project about a particular Indian culture on Friday. Students are learning about the following Indian groups: Creek, Mississippian, Matah, Aztec and Iroquois.
Math: Dividing by 3-digit numbers, ratios, dividing fractions and simplifying. A unit test was given on Friday.
Spelling: Multi-syllabic words with suffixes.
Reading: We have been reading a lot of informational text in social studies and science. We are still continuing with mysteries, as well.
Writing: Final copies of the animal stories are due by Monday. We will look forward to sharing them.
The poetry books will be sent out for publishing on Friday. They will be here on campus in the summer time. Stop by and pick up your child’s book after June 21st.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell is continuing her lessons careers and life choices.
Notes for Parents
Progress Reports: Progress reports went home on Wednesday. Please sign and return the report by Monday, May 3.
Puberty Class: Class was canceled this week. Ms. Brenda and Mr. Moore will get the classes going next week.
Picture Packets: Picture packets are overdue. If you’d like to purchase the pictures, send your check in the envelope provided and any unwanted pictures back to school as soon as possible.
Field Trip: On Monday, May 24th, our class will celebrate the end of the year with a bowling party at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley. We will bowl in the morning and enjoy a pizza lunch afterwards. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please watch for the future permission slip to come home.
Late Work: Please remember that handing in late assignments impacts your child’s grades. Even losing 5 points for a late assignment can drop a student’s grade a whole letter grade.
Although the end of the year is near, please remind your students that there is still much work to be done. It is easy for even a dedicated student to lose focus and concentration this time of year. Please encourage your child to stay focused, work hard and complete assignments on time. Finish “the race” strong!
Independent Reading: “The more you read, the more you know AND…the more you know, the more you’ll read.”
Independent reading is part of students’ nightly homework. Many students are not completing this part of their homework. Reading is crucial to your child’s success. The more they practice reading, the better they will become at word solving, vocabulary, comprehension, fluency and writing. Please make sure you are helping your child in this endeavor by signing their calendar each evening once they have read.
Important Dates
May:
3-7 Book Fair.
3-7 Teacher Appreciation Week
5- $1.00 Dress down day!
7- Pancake Breakfast w/ Principal
12-Field Day
26-Yearbook Signing
28-Last Day of School
Friday, April 23, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
April 23, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Academics:
Mystery book reports are due May 12.
Book order money was due Friday, 4/23. I will still accept money on Monday.
Science- We will be learning about the solar system. We begin with the sun, moon and Earth. Students learned about the relationship between the Earth, sun and moon. They will be required to keep a moon journal to record the different phases of the moon for 14 days. We will begin this at the end of next week so they can actually observe some major changes.
Students have also been assigned a planet to research. They will create a power point presentation in the library along with a model to represent their planet.
Social studies- Students learned about the first Americans this week. They are also involved in a mini-research project about a particular Indian culture. They are learning about the following Indian groups: Creek, Mississippian, Matah, Aztec and Iroquois.
Math: The main concept this week is dividing 3-digit numbers by 2 and 3- digit divisors.
Spelling: Students had their own independent spelling list for practice and review this week. Spelling buddies administered the spelling test this week.
Reading: We have been reading a lot of informational text in social studies and science. We are still continuing with mysteries, as well.
Writing: The mixed up animal stories are almost completed!
Students have also been doing a lot of content writing to express what they have learned about particular lessons.
The poetry books are almost ready to be sent out for publishing!
Counseling: Mrs. Russell is opening the students’ minds to careers and life choices.
Notes to Parents:
Reminder: Although the end of the year is near, please remind your students that there is still much work to be done. It is easy for even a dedicated student to lose focus and concentration this time of year. Please encourage your child to stay focused, work hard and complete assignments on time. Finish “the race” strong!
Progress Reports: Progress reports will go home next week. The report will show only core academic areas. Students have 4 more weeks to produce quality work. Please sign and return the report by Friday, April 30th.
Independent Reading: “The more you read, the more you know AND…the more you know, the more you’ll read.”
Independent reading is part of students’ nightly homework. Many students are not completing this part of their homework. Reading is crucial to your child’s success. The more they practice reading, the better they will become at word solving, vocabulary, comprehension, fluency and writing. Please make sure you are helping your child in this endeavor by signing their calendar each evening once they have read.
Puberty Class: This class will occur during the week of April 26th for our 5th graders. You must turn in the permission slip that was sent home last week in order for your child to participate.
Picture Packets: Some students still need to return their spring picture packet. These are overdue! If you’d like to purchase the pictures, send your check in the envelope provided along with the picture packet as soon as possible.
Field Trip: On Monday, May 24th, our class will celebrate the end of the year with a bowling party at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley. We will bowl in the morning and enjoy a pizza lunch afterwards. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please watch for the future permission slip to come home.
Thank you to all who sponsored students for the Jump for Heart/Walk-a-thon.
Important Dates
April:
19-23- Penny War Week
23- Mother/Son Dance
-Classroom Book Order $ Due
26- Dentist
May:
3-7 Book Fair.
3-7 Teacher Appreciation Week
7- Pancake Breakfast w/ Principal
12 Field Day
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School
April 23, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Academics:
Mystery book reports are due May 12.
Book order money was due Friday, 4/23. I will still accept money on Monday.
Science- We will be learning about the solar system. We begin with the sun, moon and Earth. Students learned about the relationship between the Earth, sun and moon. They will be required to keep a moon journal to record the different phases of the moon for 14 days. We will begin this at the end of next week so they can actually observe some major changes.
Students have also been assigned a planet to research. They will create a power point presentation in the library along with a model to represent their planet.
Social studies- Students learned about the first Americans this week. They are also involved in a mini-research project about a particular Indian culture. They are learning about the following Indian groups: Creek, Mississippian, Matah, Aztec and Iroquois.
Math: The main concept this week is dividing 3-digit numbers by 2 and 3- digit divisors.
Spelling: Students had their own independent spelling list for practice and review this week. Spelling buddies administered the spelling test this week.
Reading: We have been reading a lot of informational text in social studies and science. We are still continuing with mysteries, as well.
Writing: The mixed up animal stories are almost completed!
Students have also been doing a lot of content writing to express what they have learned about particular lessons.
The poetry books are almost ready to be sent out for publishing!
Counseling: Mrs. Russell is opening the students’ minds to careers and life choices.
Notes to Parents:
Reminder: Although the end of the year is near, please remind your students that there is still much work to be done. It is easy for even a dedicated student to lose focus and concentration this time of year. Please encourage your child to stay focused, work hard and complete assignments on time. Finish “the race” strong!
Progress Reports: Progress reports will go home next week. The report will show only core academic areas. Students have 4 more weeks to produce quality work. Please sign and return the report by Friday, April 30th.
Independent Reading: “The more you read, the more you know AND…the more you know, the more you’ll read.”
Independent reading is part of students’ nightly homework. Many students are not completing this part of their homework. Reading is crucial to your child’s success. The more they practice reading, the better they will become at word solving, vocabulary, comprehension, fluency and writing. Please make sure you are helping your child in this endeavor by signing their calendar each evening once they have read.
Puberty Class: This class will occur during the week of April 26th for our 5th graders. You must turn in the permission slip that was sent home last week in order for your child to participate.
Picture Packets: Some students still need to return their spring picture packet. These are overdue! If you’d like to purchase the pictures, send your check in the envelope provided along with the picture packet as soon as possible.
Field Trip: On Monday, May 24th, our class will celebrate the end of the year with a bowling party at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley. We will bowl in the morning and enjoy a pizza lunch afterwards. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please watch for the future permission slip to come home.
Thank you to all who sponsored students for the Jump for Heart/Walk-a-thon.
Important Dates
April:
19-23- Penny War Week
23- Mother/Son Dance
-Classroom Book Order $ Due
26- Dentist
May:
3-7 Book Fair.
3-7 Teacher Appreciation Week
7- Pancake Breakfast w/ Principal
12 Field Day
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School
Monday, April 19, 2010
NEWS FROM MRS. DENNY'S CLASS
APRIL 16, 2010
ACADEMICS
We made it through AIMS testing! The students did a wonderful job of staying focused and sticking to the task. We will celebrate their efforts on Friday with an Eegees party!
Thank you to Mrs. Scrimshaw for helping with this celebration.
During AIMS week, we continued with classroom activities in the afternoon. We spent a lot of time planning imaginative stories based on students’ artistic mixed-up animal.
Mysteries are the genre for our last book report! Students have chosen a mystery book to read for the end of the year. Book reports will be due Wednesday, May 12. We have also been reading and solving mysteries in class! Students will be working in groups next week during reading workshop.
Some new vocabulary words to enhance this unit are detective, sleuth, red herring, deduction and clue.
In science next week, we will start investigating the solar system.
In social studies, we will continue with exploration and settling the Americas.
NOTES FOR PARENTS:
AIMS Testing: Thank you for having your child to school every day on time during testing!
Student Report: There will be no student report to sign this week since the students did more testing than learning.
End of Year: “Like runners in a marathon, we see the finish line, we anticipate the end, and we muster the focus and inner strength to finish the race strong.” Please remind your students that there is still much work to be done. It is easy for even a dedicated student to lose focus and concentration this time of year. I am hoping that every parent will articulate the need to finish strong! Thank you.
Dental Form: Your child received a dental form last week. Please make sure to return it ASAP. You must mark “yes” or “no” regarding your child’s participation.
Puberty Class: This class will occur during the week of April 26th for our 5th graders. You must turn in the permission slip that was sent home last week in order for your child to participate.
Picture Packets: Spring picture packets must be returned. If you’d like to purchase the pictures, send your check in the envelope provided along with the picture packet.
Field Trip: On Monday, May 24th, our class will celebrate the end of the year with a bowling party at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley. We will bowl in the morning and enjoy a pizza lunch afterwards. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please watch for the future permission slip to come home.
Dress Code Reminder: Students need to come to school each day in the proper attire. Some students are wearing alternative colors under their red, white or blue shirt. Only the aforementioned colors are allowed. As the year has progressed, many students have grown and hence, outgrown their uniform clothes. Please make sure your child’s shirts and shorts/pants still fit. Girls’ shirts must be long enough to be tucked in and shorts and pants need to be loose enough for the shirts to be tucked into. Boy’ shirts should not be so long that it is difficult to tuck them in.
Important Dates
April:
12-16- Aims Testing
19-23- Penny War Week
21- Jump Rope for Heart
22- Earth Day
23- Mother/Son Dance
-Classroom Book Order $ Due
26- Dentist
May:
3-7 Book Fair
7- Pancake Breakfast w/ Principal
12-Field Day
26- Yearbook Signing
28- Last Day of School
APRIL 16, 2010
ACADEMICS
We made it through AIMS testing! The students did a wonderful job of staying focused and sticking to the task. We will celebrate their efforts on Friday with an Eegees party!
Thank you to Mrs. Scrimshaw for helping with this celebration.
During AIMS week, we continued with classroom activities in the afternoon. We spent a lot of time planning imaginative stories based on students’ artistic mixed-up animal.
Mysteries are the genre for our last book report! Students have chosen a mystery book to read for the end of the year. Book reports will be due Wednesday, May 12. We have also been reading and solving mysteries in class! Students will be working in groups next week during reading workshop.
Some new vocabulary words to enhance this unit are detective, sleuth, red herring, deduction and clue.
In science next week, we will start investigating the solar system.
In social studies, we will continue with exploration and settling the Americas.
NOTES FOR PARENTS:
AIMS Testing: Thank you for having your child to school every day on time during testing!
Student Report: There will be no student report to sign this week since the students did more testing than learning.
End of Year: “Like runners in a marathon, we see the finish line, we anticipate the end, and we muster the focus and inner strength to finish the race strong.” Please remind your students that there is still much work to be done. It is easy for even a dedicated student to lose focus and concentration this time of year. I am hoping that every parent will articulate the need to finish strong! Thank you.
Dental Form: Your child received a dental form last week. Please make sure to return it ASAP. You must mark “yes” or “no” regarding your child’s participation.
Puberty Class: This class will occur during the week of April 26th for our 5th graders. You must turn in the permission slip that was sent home last week in order for your child to participate.
Picture Packets: Spring picture packets must be returned. If you’d like to purchase the pictures, send your check in the envelope provided along with the picture packet.
Field Trip: On Monday, May 24th, our class will celebrate the end of the year with a bowling party at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley. We will bowl in the morning and enjoy a pizza lunch afterwards. The cost for each student will be $5.50. Please watch for the future permission slip to come home.
Dress Code Reminder: Students need to come to school each day in the proper attire. Some students are wearing alternative colors under their red, white or blue shirt. Only the aforementioned colors are allowed. As the year has progressed, many students have grown and hence, outgrown their uniform clothes. Please make sure your child’s shirts and shorts/pants still fit. Girls’ shirts must be long enough to be tucked in and shorts and pants need to be loose enough for the shirts to be tucked into. Boy’ shirts should not be so long that it is difficult to tuck them in.
Important Dates
April:
12-16- Aims Testing
19-23- Penny War Week
21- Jump Rope for Heart
22- Earth Day
23- Mother/Son Dance
-Classroom Book Order $ Due
26- Dentist
May:
3-7 Book Fair
7- Pancake Breakfast w/ Principal
12-Field Day
26- Yearbook Signing
28- Last Day of School
Thursday, April 8, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
April 9, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Academics
Reading/Writing: We are reading short stories and identifying story structure such as: exposition, setting, characters, plot, conflict, theme, climax and resolution. Students also learned how the point of view in a story (1st person, 3rd person-limited and omniscient) changes the perspective of the story.
A concept introduced in writing this week was persuasion. Persuasive techniques discussed included peer pressure, loaded words, repetition, and band wagon.
Next week students will begin brainstorming their own creative story (including all of the story elements) using their mixed up animals from art class as their motivation.
Extra Credit: No one has memorized the preposition song yet!
Spelling: No spelling test this week due to the shortened week.
Vocabulary: Students took their vocabulary quiz on story structure. We will continue to review these terms.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: Finding the greatest common factor in order to reduce fractions, finding the least common multiple in order to add and subtract fractions, multiplying fractions, converting fractions, decimals and percents, and area and perimeter. Students also learned about integers in every day situations.
AIMS Prep: We have been reviewing concepts each day in preparation for the Aims test in next week.
S.S./Counseling: Mrs. Russell played a game with students this week about testing strategies. Next week she will begin working with the students on academic and behavioral goals.
Notes to Parents:
AIMS Testing: Students will take the AIMS test next week. Please make sure your child is at school every day and on time. We will begin testing first thing in the morning. In order to be successful, students need to get enough sleep during testing week, and they should eat healthy food to keep their brains fueled .
There will be no homework during testing week except for missing, late or absent make-up work.
Reminder: Students with late work must attend detention. Our new rule for the quarter is that if a student attends detention more than once in a week, they will need to complete a responsibility essay as well. I remind them weekly that late and missing work negatively impacts their overall grade. We should all strive to be the best we can be! Homework is due the day after it is assigned unless it is a weekly assignment or a long-term assignment. Students are still required to read each evening and get their reading calendar signed.
If students do not read or get their calendar signed, they must miss their break that day.
Thank you to Sam for bringing in extra supplies.
We are still in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
Reminder: Students need to come to school each day in the proper attire. Some students are wearing alternative colors under their red, white or blue shirt. Only the aforementioned colors are allowed. As the year has progressed, many students have grown and hence, outgrown their uniform clothes. Please make sure your child’s shirts and shorts/pants still fit. Girls shirts must be long enough to be tucked in and shorts and pants need to be loose enough for the shirts to be tucked in. Boys shirts should not be so long that it is difficult to tuck them in.
Important Dates:
April:
9- Character Lunch
9- Bingo Night
12-16- Aims Testing
19-23- Penny War Week
21- Jump Rope for Heart
23- Mother/Son Dance
26- Dentist
May:
3-7 Teacher Appreciation
12 Field Day
10-14 Book Fair
14 Breakfast with principal
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School
April 9, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Academics
Reading/Writing: We are reading short stories and identifying story structure such as: exposition, setting, characters, plot, conflict, theme, climax and resolution. Students also learned how the point of view in a story (1st person, 3rd person-limited and omniscient) changes the perspective of the story.
A concept introduced in writing this week was persuasion. Persuasive techniques discussed included peer pressure, loaded words, repetition, and band wagon.
Next week students will begin brainstorming their own creative story (including all of the story elements) using their mixed up animals from art class as their motivation.
Extra Credit: No one has memorized the preposition song yet!
Spelling: No spelling test this week due to the shortened week.
Vocabulary: Students took their vocabulary quiz on story structure. We will continue to review these terms.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: Finding the greatest common factor in order to reduce fractions, finding the least common multiple in order to add and subtract fractions, multiplying fractions, converting fractions, decimals and percents, and area and perimeter. Students also learned about integers in every day situations.
AIMS Prep: We have been reviewing concepts each day in preparation for the Aims test in next week.
S.S./Counseling: Mrs. Russell played a game with students this week about testing strategies. Next week she will begin working with the students on academic and behavioral goals.
Notes to Parents:
AIMS Testing: Students will take the AIMS test next week. Please make sure your child is at school every day and on time. We will begin testing first thing in the morning. In order to be successful, students need to get enough sleep during testing week, and they should eat healthy food to keep their brains fueled .
There will be no homework during testing week except for missing, late or absent make-up work.
Reminder: Students with late work must attend detention. Our new rule for the quarter is that if a student attends detention more than once in a week, they will need to complete a responsibility essay as well. I remind them weekly that late and missing work negatively impacts their overall grade. We should all strive to be the best we can be! Homework is due the day after it is assigned unless it is a weekly assignment or a long-term assignment. Students are still required to read each evening and get their reading calendar signed.
If students do not read or get their calendar signed, they must miss their break that day.
Thank you to Sam for bringing in extra supplies.
We are still in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
Reminder: Students need to come to school each day in the proper attire. Some students are wearing alternative colors under their red, white or blue shirt. Only the aforementioned colors are allowed. As the year has progressed, many students have grown and hence, outgrown their uniform clothes. Please make sure your child’s shirts and shorts/pants still fit. Girls shirts must be long enough to be tucked in and shorts and pants need to be loose enough for the shirts to be tucked in. Boys shirts should not be so long that it is difficult to tuck them in.
Important Dates:
April:
9- Character Lunch
9- Bingo Night
12-16- Aims Testing
19-23- Penny War Week
21- Jump Rope for Heart
23- Mother/Son Dance
26- Dentist
May:
3-7 Teacher Appreciation
12 Field Day
10-14 Book Fair
14 Breakfast with principal
26 Yearbook Signing
28 Last Day of School
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Spring Time!
Hello Parents and Students:
We have a short week this week and next week due to our Easter Break. I just wanted to remind you that we have been preparing for the Aims test a little each day. We will continue reviewing concepts and practicing testing strategies up until April 12, the first day of Aims testing. It is very important that your child is in class and on time each day as we are covering a lot of material that is difficult to make up without the lesson background knowledge.
We will certainly look forward to a celebration once Aims testing is over.
Thank you for your continued support.
A quick note about supplies:
We are out of our classroom supply of pencils. Students need to bring in their own pencils to use for the rest of the year.
Students also need to replenish their supply of markers (or colored pencils) as our classroom markers are mostly dried up.
We are also out of sanitizer and tissue. Thank you to the students who have donated more to our classroom!
We have a short week this week and next week due to our Easter Break. I just wanted to remind you that we have been preparing for the Aims test a little each day. We will continue reviewing concepts and practicing testing strategies up until April 12, the first day of Aims testing. It is very important that your child is in class and on time each day as we are covering a lot of material that is difficult to make up without the lesson background knowledge.
We will certainly look forward to a celebration once Aims testing is over.
Thank you for your continued support.
A quick note about supplies:
We are out of our classroom supply of pencils. Students need to bring in their own pencils to use for the rest of the year.
Students also need to replenish their supply of markers (or colored pencils) as our classroom markers are mostly dried up.
We are also out of sanitizer and tissue. Thank you to the students who have donated more to our classroom!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
March 19, 2010
ACADEMICS:
Reading/Writing: We are finishing our poetry unit this week. Students created beautiful India Ink tree designs and wrote Haikus to match. Limericks were also introduced this week. What fun the students had writing these humorous poems.
A fun poetry web site to visit is www.gigglepoetry.com
Students will begin creating their poetry books next week in preparation for publishing.
Extra Credit: After our preposition lessons, students were challenged with learning the preposition song for extra credit!
Spelling: Our focus this week is homophones. The test is on Friday. Ask your child if he remembers the difference between a homonym and a homophone.
Vocabulary: Students will be given new words next week which will focus on story structure vocabulary.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: Comparing decimals, multiplying fractions, converting fractions, decimals and percents, mass/weight, and probability.
We continue to review order of operations, prime numbers, area and perimeter, graphing, fractions and percents. We are still reviewing math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Social Studies: With so much time devoted to science fair projects last quarter and AIMS testing preparation, we will be focusing much more on social studies this quarter. We will be studying American History beginning with exploration and colonization.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell has been working with the students on anger management. Ask your child what he/she has learned about controlling their anger in heated situations (count to 10, breathe, walk away, talk to yourself).
PARENT NOTES:
Poetry Books: All 5th grade students are working on books to be published by Student Treasures Publishing Co. in May. Students will receive a free copy of their book over the summer.
Order forms went home over a week ago for you to order any additional books for $14.95 + shipping. This would make a wonderful gift for any family member!
All forms must be returned, even if you mark “No.” Please return the forms and/or money as soon as possible in the envelope provided.
Talent Show: We will be attending the talent show on Monday, March 22nd, to cheer on students from our class.
The winners will compete with Lakeside winners on the evening of March 26th. Good luck to all participants!
Attendance: Please remember that class time is a valuable time for all students. You never know what a discussion might hold or what questions a fellow classmate might ask to make a lesson clearer. By missing part of a day, or a whole day, students miss valuable lesson concepts which they may need for a follow-up lesson or for a testing situation. Missing class time often makes the student feel lost and dis-organized as it creates gaps in their learning. While I understand there are often extenuating circumstances, I am hoping students are on time and in their seats the entire day
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge. Read, Read, Read.
Can you help? We are still in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
March:
20- Golf Tournament
26- LPA Talent Show at Central Campus
April:
1-5 Easter Break
7- $1.00 Dress Down Day
9- Character Lunch
9- Bingo Night
12-16- Aims Testing
19-23- Penny War Week
21- Jump for Heart
23- Mother/Son Dance
26- Dentist
March 19, 2010
ACADEMICS:
Reading/Writing: We are finishing our poetry unit this week. Students created beautiful India Ink tree designs and wrote Haikus to match. Limericks were also introduced this week. What fun the students had writing these humorous poems.
A fun poetry web site to visit is www.gigglepoetry.com
Students will begin creating their poetry books next week in preparation for publishing.
Extra Credit: After our preposition lessons, students were challenged with learning the preposition song for extra credit!
Spelling: Our focus this week is homophones. The test is on Friday. Ask your child if he remembers the difference between a homonym and a homophone.
Vocabulary: Students will be given new words next week which will focus on story structure vocabulary.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: Comparing decimals, multiplying fractions, converting fractions, decimals and percents, mass/weight, and probability.
We continue to review order of operations, prime numbers, area and perimeter, graphing, fractions and percents. We are still reviewing math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Social Studies: With so much time devoted to science fair projects last quarter and AIMS testing preparation, we will be focusing much more on social studies this quarter. We will be studying American History beginning with exploration and colonization.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell has been working with the students on anger management. Ask your child what he/she has learned about controlling their anger in heated situations (count to 10, breathe, walk away, talk to yourself).
PARENT NOTES:
Poetry Books: All 5th grade students are working on books to be published by Student Treasures Publishing Co. in May. Students will receive a free copy of their book over the summer.
Order forms went home over a week ago for you to order any additional books for $14.95 + shipping. This would make a wonderful gift for any family member!
All forms must be returned, even if you mark “No.” Please return the forms and/or money as soon as possible in the envelope provided.
Talent Show: We will be attending the talent show on Monday, March 22nd, to cheer on students from our class.
The winners will compete with Lakeside winners on the evening of March 26th. Good luck to all participants!
Attendance: Please remember that class time is a valuable time for all students. You never know what a discussion might hold or what questions a fellow classmate might ask to make a lesson clearer. By missing part of a day, or a whole day, students miss valuable lesson concepts which they may need for a follow-up lesson or for a testing situation. Missing class time often makes the student feel lost and dis-organized as it creates gaps in their learning. While I understand there are often extenuating circumstances, I am hoping students are on time and in their seats the entire day
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge. Read, Read, Read.
Can you help? We are still in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
March:
20- Golf Tournament
26- LPA Talent Show at Central Campus
April:
1-5 Easter Break
7- $1.00 Dress Down Day
9- Character Lunch
9- Bingo Night
12-16- Aims Testing
19-23- Penny War Week
21- Jump for Heart
23- Mother/Son Dance
26- Dentist
Monday, March 8, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
March 5, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Academics:
Reading/Writing: We are still reading and writing poetry. This week students finished their poems using similies and metaphors. They are now working on Cinquains. We definitely have some budding poets in our class!
Students are also being tested in reading and writing this week. Their writing assessment this week was to write a persuasive letter to the principal in favor of or against wearing uniforms.
In grammar, students are learning about paragraph structure, complex sentences, prepositions and prepositional phrases, conjunctions, and good word choice.
Spelling: This week’s words focused on the prefixes im-, in-, un-, and pre-. Many students are having good luck practicing their words are spellingcity.com.
Vocabulary: New words this week are paradox, preposition and disperse. Our test next week will include our new words and last week’s words: stanza, rhyme, rhythm, similie, metaphor and compassion.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: Adding, subtracting, multiplying and comparing decimals.
We continue to review order of operations, prime numbers, graphing, fractions and percents. We are still reviewing math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell continues to work with the students on making good choices.
Notes to Parents:
Reminder: Grade books closed on Friday in order to prepare grades for the 3rd quarter report cards. If your child has late work, those assignments must still be completed, and the missing assignment will be reflected in the 3rd quarter grades.
Spelling Bee: Our school-wide spelling bee was held on Tuesday. Jorge, Grayson and Faith did an amazing job and represented our classroom very well! Congratulations!
Poetry Books: All 5th grade students are working on books to be published by Student Treasures Publishing Co. in May. Students will receive a free copy of their book over the summer.
Order forms went home Thursday for you to order any additional books for $14.95 + shipping. This would make a wonderful gift for any family member!
All forms must be returned, even if you mark “No.” Please return the forms and/or money by next Thursday (3/11) in the envelope provided.
Science Fair: The rubric used to judge the science fair projects did not reflect how our 5th grade completed the science fair projects here at Central Campus, so I did not use the judges scores as a grade.
I gave the students 3 different grades for this long term project:
-They received points for meeting their deadlines along the way.
-They also received points for a completed notebook or folder with all of their science experiment notes.
-They also received a grade for having all parts of the scientific method portrayed on their display board.
Congratulations to Joel Gonzalez, Faith Cosby, Reanna Ruiz and Joseph Destito. Their science boards are heading to Sarsef!
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge. Read, Read, Read.
Can you help? We are still in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
Important Dates:
March:
5- Pancake Breakfast with
principal, Character Lunch, Movie Night
5-End of 3rd Quarter. All work must be in.
9- Spring pictures. These will only be taken for those who want to order pictures.
10-Art Show 6-7:30p.m. in the cafeteria
11- Report Card Day. ½ day with No lunch or After school
12 & 15 Spring Break
16- Skate Night
17- St. Patrick’s Day: wear green or white
20- Golf Tournament
March 5, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Academics:
Reading/Writing: We are still reading and writing poetry. This week students finished their poems using similies and metaphors. They are now working on Cinquains. We definitely have some budding poets in our class!
Students are also being tested in reading and writing this week. Their writing assessment this week was to write a persuasive letter to the principal in favor of or against wearing uniforms.
In grammar, students are learning about paragraph structure, complex sentences, prepositions and prepositional phrases, conjunctions, and good word choice.
Spelling: This week’s words focused on the prefixes im-, in-, un-, and pre-. Many students are having good luck practicing their words are spellingcity.com.
Vocabulary: New words this week are paradox, preposition and disperse. Our test next week will include our new words and last week’s words: stanza, rhyme, rhythm, similie, metaphor and compassion.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: Adding, subtracting, multiplying and comparing decimals.
We continue to review order of operations, prime numbers, graphing, fractions and percents. We are still reviewing math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell continues to work with the students on making good choices.
Notes to Parents:
Reminder: Grade books closed on Friday in order to prepare grades for the 3rd quarter report cards. If your child has late work, those assignments must still be completed, and the missing assignment will be reflected in the 3rd quarter grades.
Spelling Bee: Our school-wide spelling bee was held on Tuesday. Jorge, Grayson and Faith did an amazing job and represented our classroom very well! Congratulations!
Poetry Books: All 5th grade students are working on books to be published by Student Treasures Publishing Co. in May. Students will receive a free copy of their book over the summer.
Order forms went home Thursday for you to order any additional books for $14.95 + shipping. This would make a wonderful gift for any family member!
All forms must be returned, even if you mark “No.” Please return the forms and/or money by next Thursday (3/11) in the envelope provided.
Science Fair: The rubric used to judge the science fair projects did not reflect how our 5th grade completed the science fair projects here at Central Campus, so I did not use the judges scores as a grade.
I gave the students 3 different grades for this long term project:
-They received points for meeting their deadlines along the way.
-They also received points for a completed notebook or folder with all of their science experiment notes.
-They also received a grade for having all parts of the scientific method portrayed on their display board.
Congratulations to Joel Gonzalez, Faith Cosby, Reanna Ruiz and Joseph Destito. Their science boards are heading to Sarsef!
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge. Read, Read, Read.
Can you help? We are still in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
Important Dates:
March:
5- Pancake Breakfast with
principal, Character Lunch, Movie Night
5-End of 3rd Quarter. All work must be in.
9- Spring pictures. These will only be taken for those who want to order pictures.
10-Art Show 6-7:30p.m. in the cafeteria
11- Report Card Day. ½ day with No lunch or After school
12 & 15 Spring Break
16- Skate Night
17- St. Patrick’s Day: wear green or white
20- Golf Tournament
Thursday, February 18, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
February 19,2010
February:
19- Science Fair Judging
Science Fair Open House at Lakeside 3:30-7:00
22- Dentist
24- Grandparents Day
25&26- Rodeo Break. No School
March:
3- $1.00 Dress Down Day
4- PTO Meeting 6:30-7:30
5- Pancake Breakfast with
Principal, Character Lunch, Movie Night
11- Report Card Day. ½ day with No lunch or After school
12 & 15 Spring Break
16- Skate Night
20- Golf Tournament
Academics:
Reading/Writing: Poetry is the theme this week! We have been reading lots of poetry and writing some poems as well. Students were able to share their first “I Wish” poem with other teachers during our “Poem in a Pocket” event on Thursday.
Book Report: The book report is due next Wednesday. Students need to return the public library books I leant to them. I asked them to bring them back to me by this MONDAY.
Spelling: This week’s words focused on the prefixes dis-, il-, re- and mis-
Vocabulary: Words introduced this week were stanza, rhyme, rhythm, similie, metaphor and compassion.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: decimals, graphing, 2 and 3-digit multiplication and division, adding and subtracting fractions, converting fractions to percentages, We are still reviewing math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell is working on the safety tip, “Saying No,” to drugs or unsafe situations.
Reminder: Please encourage your child to correct math homework errors. Students have the opportunity to earn a ½ point for every error corrected on math homework. This is their responsibility. I do not “nag” them to turn it back in. Students know that by correcting errors, they can significantly impact their grade.
Parent Notes:
Spelling Bee: Our school-wide spelling bee will be on March 2nd at l:00 pm. Our representatives will be Grayson Scrimshaw, Jorge Hernandez, and Faith Cosby. Congratulations to them and Good Luck!
Science Fair: Wow! What fun to see how much learning occurred by going through the scientific method. Thank you parents for your role in helping your child succeed at this long term project! Students shared their display boards on Wednesday before they were transported to Lakeside for judging. The projects were scientific, interesting and relevant! When I receive the judges scores, I will base a portion of the science grade on those scores.
Love of Reading Week: This week has been filled with lots of reading in many ways. We had guest teachers read to our class on Monday. On Tuesday Mr. Rubasch read a wonderful short story which inspired a good discussion. On Friday, our guest reader, Lou Raguse, from Channel 11 Fox News read a chapter from The Outsiders in hopes that the students may want to check out their own copy of the book from the library to finish.
Absences: We have had a lot of students absent recently. Please encourage your child to complete his/her make up work in a timely manner. Grade books close Friday, March 5, to prepare for report cards.
Reminder: Please make sure you read & sign your child’s student report each Friday. It is due the following week. If it is not turned in by Tuesday of the following week, your child will have to serve detention until it is returned.
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge. Read, Read, Read.
Can you help? We are in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
Thank you to Isabella Badilla for bringing in Kleenex!
February 19,2010
February:
19- Science Fair Judging
Science Fair Open House at Lakeside 3:30-7:00
22- Dentist
24- Grandparents Day
25&26- Rodeo Break. No School
March:
3- $1.00 Dress Down Day
4- PTO Meeting 6:30-7:30
5- Pancake Breakfast with
Principal, Character Lunch, Movie Night
11- Report Card Day. ½ day with No lunch or After school
12 & 15 Spring Break
16- Skate Night
20- Golf Tournament
Academics:
Reading/Writing: Poetry is the theme this week! We have been reading lots of poetry and writing some poems as well. Students were able to share their first “I Wish” poem with other teachers during our “Poem in a Pocket” event on Thursday.
Book Report: The book report is due next Wednesday. Students need to return the public library books I leant to them. I asked them to bring them back to me by this MONDAY.
Spelling: This week’s words focused on the prefixes dis-, il-, re- and mis-
Vocabulary: Words introduced this week were stanza, rhyme, rhythm, similie, metaphor and compassion.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: decimals, graphing, 2 and 3-digit multiplication and division, adding and subtracting fractions, converting fractions to percentages, We are still reviewing math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell is working on the safety tip, “Saying No,” to drugs or unsafe situations.
Reminder: Please encourage your child to correct math homework errors. Students have the opportunity to earn a ½ point for every error corrected on math homework. This is their responsibility. I do not “nag” them to turn it back in. Students know that by correcting errors, they can significantly impact their grade.
Parent Notes:
Spelling Bee: Our school-wide spelling bee will be on March 2nd at l:00 pm. Our representatives will be Grayson Scrimshaw, Jorge Hernandez, and Faith Cosby. Congratulations to them and Good Luck!
Science Fair: Wow! What fun to see how much learning occurred by going through the scientific method. Thank you parents for your role in helping your child succeed at this long term project! Students shared their display boards on Wednesday before they were transported to Lakeside for judging. The projects were scientific, interesting and relevant! When I receive the judges scores, I will base a portion of the science grade on those scores.
Love of Reading Week: This week has been filled with lots of reading in many ways. We had guest teachers read to our class on Monday. On Tuesday Mr. Rubasch read a wonderful short story which inspired a good discussion. On Friday, our guest reader, Lou Raguse, from Channel 11 Fox News read a chapter from The Outsiders in hopes that the students may want to check out their own copy of the book from the library to finish.
Absences: We have had a lot of students absent recently. Please encourage your child to complete his/her make up work in a timely manner. Grade books close Friday, March 5, to prepare for report cards.
Reminder: Please make sure you read & sign your child’s student report each Friday. It is due the following week. If it is not turned in by Tuesday of the following week, your child will have to serve detention until it is returned.
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge. Read, Read, Read.
Can you help? We are in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
Thank you to Isabella Badilla for bringing in Kleenex!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
February 11, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Happy Valentine’s Day
Newsworthy News
February:
15- Love of Reading Week Begins
17- Science Fair Sign-In
18- Skate Night 6-8 pm
19- Science Fair Judging
22- Dentist
24- Grandparents Day
25&26- Rodeo Break. No School
**Talent Show Auditions in Feb.
Science Fair Deadlines:
2/17- Final Display Board Due
2/19- LPA Science Fair Judging
2/24- Written Abstract (if chosen to go to Sarsef)
ACADEMICS
Reading/Writing: We are finishing up our literature books and will begin poetry next week. We will be reading a lot of poetry as well as writing it.
Book Report: The book report is due on February 24th. I will need to collect the public library books soon, so please remind your child to finish their book.
Spelling: This week your child should have studied words from the spelling bee list. We will have our class spelling bee on Monday, Feb. 15. The top 3 spellers from our class will attend the school-wide spelling bee on March 2nd at 1:00 pm. Parents are welcome to attend the school-wide spelling bee.
Vocabulary: Students took their vocabulary test on Friday. Ask them to show you their test. J
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: 2 and 3-digit multiplication and division, averaging, adding and subtracting fractions, converting fractions to percentages, fractional word problems and mathematical vocabulary. We will continue to review math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Reminder: Please encourage your child to correct math homework errors. Students have the opportunity to earn a ½ point for every error corrected on math homework. This is their responsibility. I do not “nag” them to turn it back in. Students know that by correcting errors, they can significantly impact their grade.
Science: Student display boards are due Wed., Feb. 17th. The projects will be judged on Friday, Feb. 19th.
If your child’s experiment gets selected to go on to the Southern Arizona Science Fair competition (Sarsef), he/she will need to write a 250 word abstract to accompany their display board. We will discuss this when the time comes.
S.S: We are beginning a unit on exploring and settling America.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell is working on the safety tips… say no, get away and tell someone are just a few she worked on this week.
PARENT NOTES:
Spelling Bee: Our school-wide spelling bee will be on March 2nd. A list of practice words and a study tip sheet have been sent home with your child.
Love of Reading Week: We begin on Monday! We will have guest readers all week…Mr. Rubasch, Ms. Theis, Ms. Price, and a special guest from KMSB (Fox). We’ll also have a pajama day, a poetry day, and other fun activities. Students should bring in their favorite book to read for Tuesday.
Progress Reports: Please remember to read, sign and return your child’s progress report. Thank you!
Student Reports: Please make sure you read & sign your child’s student report each Friday. It is due the following week. If it is not turned in by Tuesday of the following week, your child will have to serve detention until it is returned.
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge. Read, Read, Read. J
Tardies & Early Dismissal: Thank you for making the effort to have your child at school on time and for allowing him/her to remain in class until 3:15. It does make a difference in your child’s day!
Can you help? We are in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
February 11, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Happy Valentine’s Day
Newsworthy News
February:
15- Love of Reading Week Begins
17- Science Fair Sign-In
18- Skate Night 6-8 pm
19- Science Fair Judging
22- Dentist
24- Grandparents Day
25&26- Rodeo Break. No School
**Talent Show Auditions in Feb.
Science Fair Deadlines:
2/17- Final Display Board Due
2/19- LPA Science Fair Judging
2/24- Written Abstract (if chosen to go to Sarsef)
ACADEMICS
Reading/Writing: We are finishing up our literature books and will begin poetry next week. We will be reading a lot of poetry as well as writing it.
Book Report: The book report is due on February 24th. I will need to collect the public library books soon, so please remind your child to finish their book.
Spelling: This week your child should have studied words from the spelling bee list. We will have our class spelling bee on Monday, Feb. 15. The top 3 spellers from our class will attend the school-wide spelling bee on March 2nd at 1:00 pm. Parents are welcome to attend the school-wide spelling bee.
Vocabulary: Students took their vocabulary test on Friday. Ask them to show you their test. J
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: 2 and 3-digit multiplication and division, averaging, adding and subtracting fractions, converting fractions to percentages, fractional word problems and mathematical vocabulary. We will continue to review math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Reminder: Please encourage your child to correct math homework errors. Students have the opportunity to earn a ½ point for every error corrected on math homework. This is their responsibility. I do not “nag” them to turn it back in. Students know that by correcting errors, they can significantly impact their grade.
Science: Student display boards are due Wed., Feb. 17th. The projects will be judged on Friday, Feb. 19th.
If your child’s experiment gets selected to go on to the Southern Arizona Science Fair competition (Sarsef), he/she will need to write a 250 word abstract to accompany their display board. We will discuss this when the time comes.
S.S: We are beginning a unit on exploring and settling America.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell is working on the safety tips… say no, get away and tell someone are just a few she worked on this week.
PARENT NOTES:
Spelling Bee: Our school-wide spelling bee will be on March 2nd. A list of practice words and a study tip sheet have been sent home with your child.
Love of Reading Week: We begin on Monday! We will have guest readers all week…Mr. Rubasch, Ms. Theis, Ms. Price, and a special guest from KMSB (Fox). We’ll also have a pajama day, a poetry day, and other fun activities. Students should bring in their favorite book to read for Tuesday.
Progress Reports: Please remember to read, sign and return your child’s progress report. Thank you!
Student Reports: Please make sure you read & sign your child’s student report each Friday. It is due the following week. If it is not turned in by Tuesday of the following week, your child will have to serve detention until it is returned.
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge. Read, Read, Read. J
Tardies & Early Dismissal: Thank you for making the effort to have your child at school on time and for allowing him/her to remain in class until 3:15. It does make a difference in your child’s day!
Can you help? We are in desperate need of Kleenex, hand sanitizer, markers and colored pencils.
Friday, February 5, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
February 5, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Newsworthy News
February:
5- Mid-Quarter ends
Character Lunch
Bingo Night
8-Mid-Quarter grades
15- Love of Reading Week Begins
17- Science Fair Sign-In
18- Skate Night 6-8 pm
19- Science Fair Judging
22- Dentist
25&26- Rodeo Break. No School
**Talent Show Auditions in Feb.
Science Fair Deadlines:
2/5- Raw and Analyzed Data Due
2/8- Conclusion Due
2/17- Final Display Board Due
2/19- LPA Science Fair Judging
2/24- Written Abstract (if chosen to go to Sarsef)
Academics:
Reading/Writing: Students are enjoying their historical fiction novels and learning a lot. They are making connections, learning new vocabulary, and interacting with the content each day. Students are also practicing reading fluency in both reading groups.
Book Report: The genre for the book report is science fiction or adventure. The book report is due on February 24th. I have loaned some public library books to students. They will need to be returned to me on Monday, Feb. 22nd.
Spelling: The unit this week focused on plural nouns and irregular plural nouns. We worked with base words and suffixes this week as well. Remind your child to log onto spellingcity.com to practice their words for the week. You can also access that site through my teacher blog.
Vocabulary: Our new vocabulary words come from our literature books: ally, plodding, rationed, curfew, invaded, descent, fiord, torment, discard, vague.
The test will be next Friday, Feb. 19. Students should bring home their vocabulary spiral notebook to study the words.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: 2 and 3-digit multiplication and division, averaging, converting fractions to percentages, multi-step word problems and mathematical vocabulary. We have also been reviewing math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Please encourage your child to correct math homework errors. Students have the opportunity to earn a ½ point for every error corrected on math homework. This is their responsibility. I do not “nag” them to turn it back in. Students know that by correcting errors, they can significantly impact their grade.
Science: This week students should have all their data collected from their experiment. They were to analyze their data and figure out a way to present that data on their display board, perhaps with a chart or graph. We went over ways to display their results and they should now focus on their conclusion. The display board is due Wed., Feb. 17th. The projects will be judged on Friday, Feb. 19th.
If your child’s experiment gets selected to go on to the Southern Arizona Science Fair competition (Sarsef), he/she will need to write a 250 word abstract to accompany their display board. We will discuss this when the time comes.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell has been working with our class on life skills, particularly academic and behavioral goals. She is asking them to reflect on areas where they need to improve either in behavior or academics. She is truly an asset to our school.
Notes to Parents:
Valentine Celebration: We will have a valentine celebration on Friday, Feb. 12th. Students should decorate a valentine box and bring it to school by Wed., Feb. 10th. Students will be given a class roster so they may address their Valentine cards.
If you can send in any snacks, treats or drinks for our celebration, we would be most grateful.
Spelling Bee: We will be having a school-wide spelling bee on March 2nd. In order to qualify for the school-wide bee, students must first qualify in their own classroom. Our classroom bee will be held on Monday, Feb. 15th.
A list of practice words and a study tip sheet have been sent home with your child.
Love of Reading: Love of reading week is Feb. 15-19. We have a lot planned for that week. We will have guest readers, a pajama day, a poetry day, and other fun activities.
Mid-Quarter Grades: Mid-quarter ends February 5th. Progress reports will come home Feb. 8th. If your child has a low grade in a subject, remind him/her to turn in any missing assignments, use the assignment planner on a daily basis, and be an active participant in class. He/she can improve grades by being a conscientious student.
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge.
Detention: Please remember your child will have after school detention for missing homework assignments, late classroom assignments, or long-term class or homework assignments. Your child will notify you that day if they must stay after school. Detention takes place from 3:30-4:30.
Blog: If by chance your child does not bring home the classroom newsletter on Friday, check my teacher blog to stay up to date with classroom information. Go to the LPA website (lpatucson.org), click on teachers, then on central campus, click on Mrs. Denny and then onto blogspot.
Reminder: Please allow your child to remain in class until 3:15 each day. At the end of the day we are summarizing learning, discussing homework, writing in planners and answering questions. It is very beneficial for your child to be in class during this time.
.
February 5, 2010
denny@lpatucson.org
Newsworthy News
February:
5- Mid-Quarter ends
Character Lunch
Bingo Night
8-Mid-Quarter grades
15- Love of Reading Week Begins
17- Science Fair Sign-In
18- Skate Night 6-8 pm
19- Science Fair Judging
22- Dentist
25&26- Rodeo Break. No School
**Talent Show Auditions in Feb.
Science Fair Deadlines:
2/5- Raw and Analyzed Data Due
2/8- Conclusion Due
2/17- Final Display Board Due
2/19- LPA Science Fair Judging
2/24- Written Abstract (if chosen to go to Sarsef)
Academics:
Reading/Writing: Students are enjoying their historical fiction novels and learning a lot. They are making connections, learning new vocabulary, and interacting with the content each day. Students are also practicing reading fluency in both reading groups.
Book Report: The genre for the book report is science fiction or adventure. The book report is due on February 24th. I have loaned some public library books to students. They will need to be returned to me on Monday, Feb. 22nd.
Spelling: The unit this week focused on plural nouns and irregular plural nouns. We worked with base words and suffixes this week as well. Remind your child to log onto spellingcity.com to practice their words for the week. You can also access that site through my teacher blog.
Vocabulary: Our new vocabulary words come from our literature books: ally, plodding, rationed, curfew, invaded, descent, fiord, torment, discard, vague.
The test will be next Friday, Feb. 19. Students should bring home their vocabulary spiral notebook to study the words.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: 2 and 3-digit multiplication and division, averaging, converting fractions to percentages, multi-step word problems and mathematical vocabulary. We have also been reviewing math concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April.
Please encourage your child to correct math homework errors. Students have the opportunity to earn a ½ point for every error corrected on math homework. This is their responsibility. I do not “nag” them to turn it back in. Students know that by correcting errors, they can significantly impact their grade.
Science: This week students should have all their data collected from their experiment. They were to analyze their data and figure out a way to present that data on their display board, perhaps with a chart or graph. We went over ways to display their results and they should now focus on their conclusion. The display board is due Wed., Feb. 17th. The projects will be judged on Friday, Feb. 19th.
If your child’s experiment gets selected to go on to the Southern Arizona Science Fair competition (Sarsef), he/she will need to write a 250 word abstract to accompany their display board. We will discuss this when the time comes.
Counseling: Mrs. Russell has been working with our class on life skills, particularly academic and behavioral goals. She is asking them to reflect on areas where they need to improve either in behavior or academics. She is truly an asset to our school.
Notes to Parents:
Valentine Celebration: We will have a valentine celebration on Friday, Feb. 12th. Students should decorate a valentine box and bring it to school by Wed., Feb. 10th. Students will be given a class roster so they may address their Valentine cards.
If you can send in any snacks, treats or drinks for our celebration, we would be most grateful.
Spelling Bee: We will be having a school-wide spelling bee on March 2nd. In order to qualify for the school-wide bee, students must first qualify in their own classroom. Our classroom bee will be held on Monday, Feb. 15th.
A list of practice words and a study tip sheet have been sent home with your child.
Love of Reading: Love of reading week is Feb. 15-19. We have a lot planned for that week. We will have guest readers, a pajama day, a poetry day, and other fun activities.
Mid-Quarter Grades: Mid-quarter ends February 5th. Progress reports will come home Feb. 8th. If your child has a low grade in a subject, remind him/her to turn in any missing assignments, use the assignment planner on a daily basis, and be an active participant in class. He/she can improve grades by being a conscientious student.
Bookman’s Reading Challenge:
Students should be turning in their validated reading slips when they finish a book. We are trying to help LPA earn great things for our school by participating in this 3 month reading challenge.
Detention: Please remember your child will have after school detention for missing homework assignments, late classroom assignments, or long-term class or homework assignments. Your child will notify you that day if they must stay after school. Detention takes place from 3:30-4:30.
Blog: If by chance your child does not bring home the classroom newsletter on Friday, check my teacher blog to stay up to date with classroom information. Go to the LPA website (lpatucson.org), click on teachers, then on central campus, click on Mrs. Denny and then onto blogspot.
Reminder: Please allow your child to remain in class until 3:15 each day. At the end of the day we are summarizing learning, discussing homework, writing in planners and answering questions. It is very beneficial for your child to be in class during this time.
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Friday, January 29, 2010
News from Mrs. Denny’s Class
January 29, 2010
Newsworthy News
February:
3- $1.00 Dress down day
5- Mid Quarter ends
Character Lunch
Bingo Night
15- Love of Reading Week Begins
17- Science Fair Sign-In
18- Skate Night
19- Science Fair Judging
22- Dentist
24- Grandparents Day
25&26- Rodeo Break. No School
**Talent Show Auditions in Feb.
Science Fair Deadlines:
1/29- Experiment Completed
2/5- Raw and Analyzed Data Due
2/8- Conclusion Due
2/12- Optional Written Report
2/17- Final Display Board Due
2/19- LPA Science Fair Judging
Academics:
Reading/Writing: Students are reading their literature books, Number the Stars and Snow Treasure. They are making connections and writing about them in their literature logs.
Book Report: The genre for our next book report is science fiction or adventure. These books are to be read independently with a final book report due on February 24th. I have loaned some public library books to students with the caution that they do not lose them because they will have to pay for them.
Spelling: The unit this week focused on words with suffixes. We discussed base words and suffix meanings. We also investigated spelling rules related to the words.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: 2 and 3-digit multiplication, division with multiples of 10, fractions and mathematical vocabulary.
Please encourage your child to correct math homework errors. They have the opportunity to earn a ½ point for every error corrected on math homework. This is their responsibility. I do not “nag” them to turn it back in. Students know that by correcting errors, they can significantly impact their grade.
Science: Students should have conducted their experiments at home this week. This next week they will need to analyze their data and figure out a way to present that data on their display board, perhaps with a chart or graph. The completed project and display board are due Wed., Feb. 17th. You many pre-order the display board for $5.00 at the front office. The deadline to order is Friday 1/29, but you still may be able to turn in your money/form Monday morning.
S.S.- Students are learning a bit about the Scandinavian countries, geography, courage and World War II through their in-class literature books.
Counseling: We have a new in-school counselor who has replaced Mr. Diaz since he moved to Colorado. Mrs. Russell will be working with the class on Thursdays. We are excited to have her.
Parent Information:
Blog: Please remember that you can always check my teacher blog to stay up to date with classroom information. Go to the LPA website (lpatucson.org), click on central campus, click on Mrs. Denny and then onto blogspot.
Fieldtrip: Our trip to Sabino Canyon was amazing! The weather was great, the water was flowing, and we learned a lot. Thank you to Mrs. Cosby, Mrs. Wainwright, Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Templeton for chaperoning our field trip.
After School Pick-Up: Please schedule any appointments for your child after 3:30 if possible. There have been many disruptions at the end of our day with students leaving class between 2:45 and 3:15. Each time I have to answer the phone and prepare a child to leave early is valuable time I am taking away from the whole class. At the end of the day we are summarizing learning, discussing homework, writing in planners and answering questions. It is very beneficial for your child to be in class during this time.
Detention: Please remember your child will have after school detention for missing homework assignments, late classroom assignments, or long-term class or homework assignments. Your child will notify you that day if they must stay after school. Detention takes place from 3:30-4:30.
Science Fair: We are getting closer to the final science fair deadline. Your child should have conducted their experiment by now and should have finished collecting data. There is still time to re-test if results seem a bit skewed.
Love of Reading: Love of reading week is Feb. 15-19. If you are interested in reading a favorite book, sharing some favorite poetry, or sharing some excerpts with our class during this week, please contact me. We would love to have you!
Marble Jar Party: The class was excited to earn a marble party. They must work collectively to earn marbles for such things as attendance, behavior, good manners/character, etc. They voted to wear PJs to school and watch a movie at the end of the day on Friday. Thank you to those who allowed your child to bring in snacks to share during the movie.
Mid-Quarter: Now is the time to encourage your child to work hard to keep up with their grades. Mid-quarter ends February 5th. Progress reports will come home Feb. 8th.
.
January 29, 2010
Newsworthy News
February:
3- $1.00 Dress down day
5- Mid Quarter ends
Character Lunch
Bingo Night
15- Love of Reading Week Begins
17- Science Fair Sign-In
18- Skate Night
19- Science Fair Judging
22- Dentist
24- Grandparents Day
25&26- Rodeo Break. No School
**Talent Show Auditions in Feb.
Science Fair Deadlines:
1/29- Experiment Completed
2/5- Raw and Analyzed Data Due
2/8- Conclusion Due
2/12- Optional Written Report
2/17- Final Display Board Due
2/19- LPA Science Fair Judging
Academics:
Reading/Writing: Students are reading their literature books, Number the Stars and Snow Treasure. They are making connections and writing about them in their literature logs.
Book Report: The genre for our next book report is science fiction or adventure. These books are to be read independently with a final book report due on February 24th. I have loaned some public library books to students with the caution that they do not lose them because they will have to pay for them.
Spelling: The unit this week focused on words with suffixes. We discussed base words and suffix meanings. We also investigated spelling rules related to the words.
Math:
Saxon Math concepts this week: 2 and 3-digit multiplication, division with multiples of 10, fractions and mathematical vocabulary.
Please encourage your child to correct math homework errors. They have the opportunity to earn a ½ point for every error corrected on math homework. This is their responsibility. I do not “nag” them to turn it back in. Students know that by correcting errors, they can significantly impact their grade.
Science: Students should have conducted their experiments at home this week. This next week they will need to analyze their data and figure out a way to present that data on their display board, perhaps with a chart or graph. The completed project and display board are due Wed., Feb. 17th. You many pre-order the display board for $5.00 at the front office. The deadline to order is Friday 1/29, but you still may be able to turn in your money/form Monday morning.
S.S.- Students are learning a bit about the Scandinavian countries, geography, courage and World War II through their in-class literature books.
Counseling: We have a new in-school counselor who has replaced Mr. Diaz since he moved to Colorado. Mrs. Russell will be working with the class on Thursdays. We are excited to have her.
Parent Information:
Blog: Please remember that you can always check my teacher blog to stay up to date with classroom information. Go to the LPA website (lpatucson.org), click on central campus, click on Mrs. Denny and then onto blogspot.
Fieldtrip: Our trip to Sabino Canyon was amazing! The weather was great, the water was flowing, and we learned a lot. Thank you to Mrs. Cosby, Mrs. Wainwright, Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Templeton for chaperoning our field trip.
After School Pick-Up: Please schedule any appointments for your child after 3:30 if possible. There have been many disruptions at the end of our day with students leaving class between 2:45 and 3:15. Each time I have to answer the phone and prepare a child to leave early is valuable time I am taking away from the whole class. At the end of the day we are summarizing learning, discussing homework, writing in planners and answering questions. It is very beneficial for your child to be in class during this time.
Detention: Please remember your child will have after school detention for missing homework assignments, late classroom assignments, or long-term class or homework assignments. Your child will notify you that day if they must stay after school. Detention takes place from 3:30-4:30.
Science Fair: We are getting closer to the final science fair deadline. Your child should have conducted their experiment by now and should have finished collecting data. There is still time to re-test if results seem a bit skewed.
Love of Reading: Love of reading week is Feb. 15-19. If you are interested in reading a favorite book, sharing some favorite poetry, or sharing some excerpts with our class during this week, please contact me. We would love to have you!
Marble Jar Party: The class was excited to earn a marble party. They must work collectively to earn marbles for such things as attendance, behavior, good manners/character, etc. They voted to wear PJs to school and watch a movie at the end of the day on Friday. Thank you to those who allowed your child to bring in snacks to share during the movie.
Mid-Quarter: Now is the time to encourage your child to work hard to keep up with their grades. Mid-quarter ends February 5th. Progress reports will come home Feb. 8th.
.
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