Casey at the Bat

In Readers' Workshop this week, students are learning close reading strategies.  Close reading helps readers read and understand complex texts (texts that have many unknown words and/ or unfamiliar text structure and language).  To practice, we're reading "Casey at the Bat" by Ernest Thayer (published in 1888).  As we read, we jot down notes in the margin, circle unknown words and replace them with synonyms, reread and read slowly, etc.. We're also acting our portions of the text to help us visualize the plot and story-line.   Students are really eager to find out what happens to the "Mudville Nine" and Casey.  Ask your child what character they're acting out, and what they think will happen next with Casey at bat!

In Writers' Workshop, students revised their persuasive speeches by adding hooks/ leads that will make their audience want to hear more.  Tomorrow, we will give our speeches.  I have teachers, administrators, and students from throughout the building coming into our classroom so each student can present and deliver their speech to their intended audience.  I'll be sure to show snapshots tomorrow. 

In Math Workshop, we played Jeopardy to help us review for our Unit 6 Assessment tomorrow. Just a reminder, students' reviews are due tomorrow.  Check yesterday's post if your child is struggling; there are many helpful hints outlined!

In Social Studies, we started our Unit of Study: Economics for Everyone.  This week students are learning about the production process and natural, capital and human resources.  Today, we took a "virtual field trip" to Hickman Family Farms to help us identify different resources required in the production of eggs on an egg farm. 

Homework:

• Persuasive drafts due tomorrow (some students are bringing these home to finish)
• Unit 6 test review: due Wednesday
• Practice multiplication facts
• Read 20 minutes 

Reminders:

• Unit 6 Math Assessment:  Wednesday, March 23
• Spring Break: Thursday (3/24) - Monday (3/28)
• Herr's Field Trip:  March 30, 2016:  Letters went home with students who had a chaperone request.  Check your child's Beaver Folder regarding whether you will be driving separately or riding the bus.  Email with any questions! 
• Picture Day: Thursday, March 31

Classroom Supplies:  Again, thank you, thank you, thank you to families who continue to keep our classroom stocked with supplies so we can focus on learning.  Your generosity is so appreciated.  Thank you!

• Dry erase markers

Kidblog Link:  

• https://kidblog.org/class/RES11/login

Thank you,

Mrs. O'Neill