Wind, Wilderness & Waiting...

We don't seem to be too obsessed with the upcoming break.  Students generally are waiting patiently and still focussed in class.  In fact, as the last period started today I actually heard "Are we really almost done?  That went fast!"  Music to a teacher's ears.  


If you haven't heard, we are well into "My Side of the Mountain" by Jean George.  We agree that it is a very good read and would only be made better with the addition of a cozy fireplace, blankets and hot chocolate.  The students are doing terrific work attending to the details in the story.  They are also spotting some fun idiosyncrasies with the our copies that derive from the printing done 'back in the day". We've read about the invention of the printing press in Social and have seen some its limitations first hand.  


Students have nightly "re-reading" assignments following our in-class reading. The language is rich and deserves their careful attention in an independent read. 


We will finish our last lesson on Chapter 3 in Science next week.  The last week of school will include a science test.   Look for 3 nights of reading review along with the sample short answer questions.  We had come great results in our space unit.  I'd like to see everyone show equally good results in this life science chapter. 


In social studies, we are embarking on  "Two Cultures Colliding" - the arrival of European explorers in North America.  It's a lengthy unit that will continue well into the new year.  I still remember this aspect of history from my own education and am delighted to be sharing it your children. 


The baseball games have been fast and furious this week.  After intra-class games last week, we've had inter-class matches divided by gender.  Mrs Soliz & Mrs. Frankola have been running the girls' game.  I've been the much maligned umpire during the very competitive boys' outings.  

The weather is a little chilly these days, though still balmy by this Canadian's standards.   That said, many of the kids are cold both inside and outside of the classroom.  Please insist on a school sweatshirt and I'll try to ensure that the clothing finds its way home. 

A number of students have been planning for school lunch only to find it is not to their liking.  They've been going without eating.  If you don't have a paper copy of the lunch menu, please refer to the online menu. Much better to have a couple of slices of whole wheat bread with peanut butter than an empty tummy.  

You are in for an incredible treat on Tuesday, December 13th as our music teacher, Ramona Rivera, leads the students in choral singing.  They have worked incredibly hard to master some challenging and beautiful music.

December is here!  Wow, that went by quickly.   

Tracey ~ Mrs. A.