Happy Monday!

I can't believe it's May already! We are working hard to get finish up the curriculum for the remainder of the year while fitting in test prep lessons. In language arts we are working on literature circles and poetry. Students are working in groups and facilitating their own discussions during literature circles. The level of challenged is dependent upon each student. Students who are working hard on their reading, "jobs", and participating in the discussions beyond answering yes or no will use higher level thinking skills during this unit. These higher level thinking skills are what will challenge your child and make them think outside the box. Students must take ownership of their own learning in order to get the most out of literature circles.

Homework is due on Thursday. Students are reminded that proper headings need to be on all papers (in the right hand corner on the top of the first page) First and Last Name and Number with date on 2nd line. I will not be giving credit to papers without the proper headings. Any papers without names or proper headings will be placed in my recycle bin. Students are welcome to check the recycle bin (it is emptied on Thursday) if they think that they have handed in something that they did not get credit for on their weekly report.

Students are working on economy this quarter in social studies. They each received a checkbook and are debiting and crediting money based upon behavior, work habits, and supply needs. I am paying students a weekly paycheck of $50. This $50 will include turning in homework and conduct sheets on time, and classroom conduct. Students are able to earn more money for positive behavior throughout the day. The goal is for children to earn lots of money. We will hold a checkbook sale on the last day of school where students will be able to buy items with the money from their checkbooks.

Please check the dates in the upcoming date section of the blog for important upcoming dates! The rest of the year is a busy one. We will hold Spelling Bee & Quiz Bowl events in the classrooms which will determine who will participate in the finals. A spelling list is going home in Monday Folder's today for students to begin studying!

Have a great week!