Thursday, December 16, 2010

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
math sheet
Reading sheet due tomorrow

Tomorrow is the party!!!!!

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Homework:
Read for 20 minutes
Reading sheet due Friday
Math sheet

Many kids brought in books for the book exchange on Friday! There are still a few more kids who need to bring theirs in. Please let me know if you can not get a book for your student.

We have started a new method of Multiplication. I am sending a sheet to help you out at home.

Today we had a guest speaker come and talk to us about trees. Ask your student what new things they learned.

Wednesday, December 08, 2010

Homework:
Read for 20 minutes
Reading homework—Due Friday
Study spelling words- test on Friday

Something New: This Friday students who turned in all of their homework will be able to have 15-20 minutes of Friday Free Time. Students who did not turn in all of their homework will have to complete what they did not turn in while others are having free time. I am hoping this will motivate those who have a hard time getting their homework in, and reward those who always turn in homework. This also counts for the RAH each night.

Christmas Party:
Please don’t forget to bring a wrapped new or gently used book by Dec. 15th.
Let Terry Pond know if you can contribute to the party in some way.

Today we had a guest speaker come in, to talk about the Oregon Trail. Be sure to ask your student what they learned.

We also started our mysterious science/Christmas experiment today. I hope to get through all of the kids by Friday!

Monday, December 06, 2010

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Reading sheet due--Friday

So far only 4 people have brought in books for our book exchange. Please remember to bring in books by December 15th for our Christmas book exchange. Make sure they are wrapped.

We have a ton of Borax. Thank you so much for helping me make this project possible. I am so excited to get it started. We will start Wednesday!!

Thursday, December 02, 2010

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet if not done in class
Reading sheet due tomorrow!
basic facts and spelling test tomorrow

We played the Driedl Game today. One of our students gave each person their very own Driedl, shared how to play the game and the kids loved it! Thanks for a fun time.
Each student has the directions. Fun family game.

Wednesday, December 01, 2010

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
reading sheet due Friday
Practice spelling and math facts

There are a lot of papers coming home today, check backpacks.

Dental screenings went really well today. The Hygentist talked to the school about germs in their mouth and how important it is to brush.

November reading minutes:
Our class read 16, 138 minutes this month!! That is awesome!! Last month we read 14,400 minutes. What a great climb!

Monday, November 29, 2010

Homework:
Reading sheet--Due Friday the 3rd
Read 20 minutes
Practice spelling- test on Friday
Practice multiplication facts- test on Friday
Homework:
Reading sheet--Due Friday
Practice Spelling
Practice mutiplication facts
Read 20 minutes

Friday, November 19, 2010

Thanksgiving Homework:
Over the break I am asking students to complete the following assignments:
*RAH Reading each day and sign your calendars
*salmon colored reading comprehension sheet for the week
*work on Multiplication facts that you have not mastered yet



DON’T FORGET….CONFERENCES MONDAY NOVEMBER 22ND AND TUESDAY NOVEMBER 23RD!

I encourage you to bring your student to the conference. It’s important they hear what you and I have to say.

Today was the last day for our Native American unit. The kids did a great job. So did Miss Hanson. We will start our unit on the Oregon Trail when we come back from Thanksgiving break.


Ask your student how to solve this problem using the “cluster” method: 34 x 13=

I have totally fallen in love with the cluster method! I wish I learned how to do this when I was in school!

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 20 minutes tonight
Reading sheet due Friday
Practice math facts—quiz on Friday
Practice spelling—Test on Friday

PROGRESS REPORTS COMING HOME TODAY!!!


Homework issue:

Homework is not coming in. I don’t give out a lot of homework, and feel that everyone should be able to turn it in on time. I understand there are after school activities, but time for homework should be made.

Guess What! Your students wrote thesis statements today!!

Monday, November 15, 2010

Homework:
Reading sheet—Due Friday
Study spelling words
Study multiplication facts—quiz on Friday the 19th


Today in writing we learned a new word: Explicit, ask your student what the word means, and what they had to do in writing J

Supply check:
Please make sure your student has pencils, glue, and glue sticks. We are coming to the time of year where supplies start to run low or out.

Mrs. Pond emailed everyone today about our up and coming “Holiday party”. Here is her email:

Hello C-3 Parents,

Is everyone ready for the holidays? It is getting closer and closer. I am
already planning the winter party for the class room. I would like to do a book
exchange for the kids. But I need your help, if you could send a wrapped new or
gently used book to class by Wednesday Dec. 15th, that would be fantastic. If
you are unable to get a book for any reason please let me know I will bring a
few extra. Please make sure it is wrapped, it doesn't have to be new a gently
used book would work perfect. Thank you very much for your help. Have a
fantastic weekend.

Please contact me with any questions or ideas for the party.

Thank you,
Terry Pond
itpond@yahoo.com
503-990-2912

This book exchange is a fun idea….and everyone will have a new book to read during the break!

Remember to think about what a 4th grader would want to read (boy or girl). We have all sorts of reading levels in out class. If a student gets a book that is too easy that’s fine. If a student gets a book that is too hard, they can have their parents read it with them or to them.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Homework:
Read each night for 20 minutes
Study multiplication facts—Test on Friday the 19th

Class store:
Our next class store is November 30th. If you are able to bring in an item or two that would be great. One thing from each student would be awesome! It can be something you have at home and no longer need, or just a small $1.00 item. Something fun and homemade would be fun too! Juice drinks and snacks are also welcome.


Today we officially finished our Personal Narratives. We ate cookies and smarties while reading each others stories. It is amazing how quiet the room is while they are reading!

Miss Hanson did a fantastic Native American Art project with the class using the paper sacks you brought in. Ask your student about it.

Tuesday, November 09, 2010

Homework:
Reading Sheet-Sacagawea
Math- 10's

Tomorrow we are having a guest speaker who will talk to the class about Native Americans.

Monday, November 08, 2010

Homework:
Read for at least 20 minutes
Sacagawea reading sheet—Due Wednesday the 10th

Remember: NO SCHOOL November 11th—Vets day
NO SCHOOL November 12th—Grading day (I except chocolate HE HE)

Make sure your student is practicing those multiplication facts.

Another great lesson with Miss Hanson! Ask your student about the Native American tribe they are studying!

Friday, November 05, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 20 minutes each night
Practice multiplication facts

Yesterday each student took a timed multiplication test. After the test they wrote down the problems they need to work on and should have taken them home last night. The next test will be on November 19th. Please practice with your student.

No spelling next week. The week is too short. We will start again November 15th.

Ask your student what they built in class today!

Wednesday, November 03, 2010

Homework:
Read for at least 20 minutes
practice spelling
Reading sheet due Friday

Last month your students read a whopping 14,400 minutes!! September was 9,449 minutes. Our goal was to reach 10,000 minutes. We went far beyond that goal! Way to go! I am so proud. Our new goal is read a grand total of 20,000 in the month of November. That might be tough since that requires each kid to read longer than 20 minutes each night. But we are going for it! I know we can do it!

Thank you for the candy donations. If you are wanting to get rid of candy send it my way. I use it as random rewards.

Tuesday, November 02, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 20 minutes tonight
Math sheet if not done in class
Lewis and Clark sheet- due Friday the 5th
Practice spelling

Monday, November 01, 2010

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Lewis and Clark Reading sheet—Due by Fri.
Practice spelling words

Something New:
Each student will be bringing home a list of spelling words. Please practice with your student each night. I am hoping it will improve their spelling.

If you have a ton of left over Halloween candy, please send it my way. I can use it as a once in a while reward for kids. Or if you would like to grab a bag on sale right now that would be great. This is strictly voluntary so don’t feel like you have to buy anything.

Thanks again for the class store donations. The kids had a blast shopping. I had two moms here helping. The kids were so excited and sugar rushed…..I really appreciated their help!

Picture retakes are November 3rd! Make sure your student brings in their original packet.

Snack time:
Please remember snack time is only for healthy snacks. Some examples are:
Crackers and cheese, go-gurt, granola bars, fruit, veggies…..

Math: We are introducing a lot of new strategies in math. The one thing I need your help with is practicing multiplication facts. I am going to try to get flashcards for everyone, but I am not sure when. The dollar Tree, Target and Wal-mart are great places to get flashcards.

Miss Hanson started her Native American unit with the class today. Ask your student what they learned. She had them thinking and really provoked their opinions!

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 15 minutes tonight
Math sheet
Reading sheet due tomorrow! Only 6 people have turned it in so far.


Tomorrow it Character Book dress up day. Please remember this is not a Halloween celebration so if your student wants to dress up it needs to be a character from a book, and they need to book with them.

We will also have our Harvest party tomorrow at 2:15.

Tomorrow is also out class store. If you have anything to donate please make sure it gets to me in the morning. If not we will need more items for our November store.

Tonight is family night at the book fair from 5:30-7:30. Friday is your last chance to snag those books you want! Don’t forget to look at your teachers wish list.


Don't want a lot of candy around the house??? Please send it my way. I use them for random rewards (not an everyday thing).

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 15 minutes tonight
Reading homework—DUE Friday the 29th


The next family night at the book fair is Thursday the 28th from 5:30-7:30. What a great way to start your Christmas shopping! Only 59 more days!

Thank you so much to the 3 families who have bought books at the book fair for our class! I have added them to our library, and kids already want to check them out. Getting new books is always exciting!
Also a big thank you to those helping with the Harvest party on Friday! I couldn't have done it without you guys!

Ask your students about the “brain dance” they did today with Miss Hanson.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Homework:
Read for at least 15 minutes tonight
Reading worksheet due Friday the 29th

Book Fair is now open. Kids can buy before and after school. There are also a few family nights. Tuesday 5-7PM and Thursday 5:30-7:30PM. Come check out the great books. Don’t forget to use the 5 finger test as you and your student are choosing books to buy. Also don’t forget to check out the teacher wish list.

Character Book dress up day is the 29th. Remember your student needs to have the book that goes along with their character.

Thanks to all of you who have brought in items for our class store. The kids are so excited about buying them. Our Next store is October 29th. If you still want to bring things in that would be great.

Extra Candy:
Since the store shelves are currently stocked with Halloween candy and back-to-school snacks, I am making an appeal to parents to buy a bag to send to class. If you are able to contribute, it will be greatly appreciated. Please remember that this is an OPTIONAL donation. I will use it for little rewards every now and then. Or…After Halloween if you have extra candy you want to get out of your house please send it my way.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 15 minutes per day

Important dates:
October-
25-29 Book Fair
29 Book Character dress up day
Jog-a-thon prize party


Jump rope club starts Wednesday, October 27th

In the Forest Ridge gym
8:15-8:45 am
Every Wednesday

Ask your kids what we did with Starburst today!

Speeches went great! I will try to get grades back to you by Monday the 25th.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Homework:
Read for at least 15 minutes
Reading sheet due tomorrow
Speech due tomorrow
Math sheet

Thursday thoughts and other papers coming home today. This is a check backpack alert! :)

Multiplication facts:
Please, please, please practice multiplication facts with your students. We are getting into the harder ones (6,7,8,9….) and students need to have these in their heads. I will try to have them make flashcards, but it takes a lot of class time up. If you have flash cards at home use them.

Book Fair:
October 25-29th is the BOOK FAIR! Your students will have a preview of the book fair Friday morning and will come home with a wish list. Teachers also have wish lists. Please check out my wish list and donate a book to our class library. I am low on some reading levels so I will pick books that are truly needed in our class.

Speeches will begin at 9:30 Friday morning. If you are interested in coming to watch please let me know so I have chairs ready for you. I will also make sure students with parents watching go first in case you have to jet off to work afterwards. I am not sure how long it will take us to get through with the speeches, so make sure if you want to come to show up at 9:30.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Homework:
Reading sheet—Due Friday the 22nd
Speeches ---Due Friday the 22nd
Read at least 15 minutes tonight

Today we had a guest speaker. He talked about what life was like for Mountain men in the past. Ask your student about what they learned.

October 25-29th is the BOOK FAIR! Your students will have a preview of the book fair Friday morning and will come home with a wish list. Teachers also have wish lists. Please check out my wish list and donate a book to our class library. I am low on some reading levels so I will pick books that are truly needed in our class.

Miss Hanson will be starting a Native American unit next month. It’s a great follow up to our Lewis and Clark unit.

The Jog-a-thon assembly is this Friday at 2:30

Speeches will begin at 9:30 Friday morning. If you are interested in coming to watch please let me know so I have chairs ready for you. I will also make sure students with parents watching go first in case you have to jet off to work afterwards. I am not sure how long it will take us to get through with the speeches, so make sure if you want to come to show up at 9:30.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 15 minutes tonight
Spelling is coming home. Have student practice those words
Speeches coming up at the end of the week. Make sure students have their speeches done, practiced and ready to present by Friday the 22nd.

What is your child doing at school?

Social studies
: Lewis and Clark

Science: a few Inquiries

Math: Multiplication and division

Writing: Personal Narratives

Reading: Realistic Fiction, building our reading stamina and making sure we all have “just right” books. I am also testing in the DRA this month.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 15 minutes
Reading sheet
Speech--Due 10-22-10

Monday, October 11, 2010

Homework:
Read at least 15 minutes
Work on speech---Due October 22
Reading sheet—Due this Friday

I know that weekends can crazy and busy, but its so important to have your student read every day. Right now its only 15 minutes, as the year goes on, the minutes will increase.

We have been working on setting and characters in reading. As you read with your student ask them questions about who the characters are, and if they can give some descriptions of the characters. Also have them describe the setting in the story.


Please remember to bring in Jog-a-thon packets. We still need help with Jog-a-thon stuff. See Terry Ponds email for more information.

Book Fair starts October 25th -29th!
Each teacher creates a wish list. It’s a great way for you to add to our class library!

Thursday, October 07, 2010

Homework: Read every day for at least 15 minutes

Many students are not turning in their salmon colored reading sheet. Students have a week to get that turned in. Each student should be able to turn it in on time. Remember parents can help.

Today students will be bringing home their first major speech project. Students will be expected to be prepared to give speech October 22nd.

Remember no school tomorrow

Monday, October 04, 2010

Homework:
Read 15 minutes or more
Reading sheet--- Due Thursday October 7th

For the month of September the class read a grand total of 9088 minutes at home. That is awesome! Keep up the good work! We decided to set a goal for October. Our goal is to read a total of 10,000 minutes in October.

Thank you so much to the two families who brought stuff in for our class store. The kids are so excited to earn money and make purchases. If you are able to donate to our class store this month please bring something in before October 28th. The September store was wiped out clean, so I am starting to collect more things. Remember, items can be gently used, or new. There is no need to spend more than a dollar on each item.


I know today is Monday, but students are coming to school really tired. Please make sure they get enough sleep at night.

Don’t forget to start thinking about what to be for Character Book dress up day October 29th! For the first time I actually have an idea for myself!

In the classroom:

Social studies:
We are going to start a Lewis and Clark unit pretty soon.

Math:
Multiplication

Writing:
The writing process

Reading:
Monitoring comprehension
Story elements

Friday, October 01, 2010

Homework:
Read 15 minutes each night

A new Reading log is coming home tonight. It is blue. We are going to continue our goal of 15 minutes each night. Students have been really successful with 15 minutes. If your student reads longer than 15 minutes please have them write down how many minutes they read. I love to see how long students read.

The Jog- A-Thon was a huge success. Your student will probably hit the sack early tonight! Now its time to collect money and get the packets turned in.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Homework:
Read 15 minutes
Math (if students did not finish it in class)
Reading sheet ---due Friday, 10-1-10

Reminders:
Picture day tomorrow!

Jog-a-thon is Friday the 1st. Collect those pledges!
Make sure your student is wearing something appropriate for running.

In math we have been working on multiplying by 4’s. Quiz your students. Have them show you the double, double strategy they learned.

Monday, September 27, 2010

HOmework:
Read 15 minutes
Reading sheet--Due Friday October 1

Friday, September 24, 2010

Homework:
Read 15 minutes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Students are bringing home corrected math papers today.

Monday will be the first time I send home the reading sheet for homework. It will be due Friday October 1st.

Be sure to ask your student about “leaving tracks” as they read.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Homework:
Read 15 minutes
math (unless finished in class)

Remember to get those Jog-a-thon pledges! Great prizes await students of all ages!

Ask your student about the fantastic story teller that was here today.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Homework:
Read 15 minutes

I am so proud of each student who read this weekend. It is such an accomplishment! Thank you parents as well!

Please remember to have students bring back their books each day. They read them at school too. My goal is to have students read the same book at home and at school. That way they are not reading two different books at one time.


Don’t forget to come to the parent curriculum night tomorrow from 6-7. This will give you information on what I will be teaching, and class expectations.


Toys:
Toys are not allowed in class. I have noticed the little bracelets shaped like animals or other things have been a distraction in class. I have taken many away. Please make sure your student keeps the toys at home.

Math:
We are currently working on multiplication. If you have flashcards at home please practice the 2’s and 3’s with your student. We will have a little quiz on Friday.

Spelling:
Today we did a 5 word preview. I am sending home the list today. If your student missed a few words please practice them at home. Forest Ridge does not do the traditional send a spelling list home. We are using the Rebecca Sitton program. This program teaches the kids about vowels, patterns….etc.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Homework:
Read for 15 minutes
Finish math sheet


Not every student will have math homework. Some finished it in class. Their homework is, or should be in a blue Forest Ridge folder.

Today was the first day of Technology. Make sure to ask your student what they learned about Internet safety. Your student also explored a new website that can be used at home.

www.tumblebooks.com
Username: salemkeizer
Password: salem


Picking a Just Right book:

Often parents come up to me and ask what level of books their child should read. Well, here is a little trick if you are at the library or book store.
Have your student read a page out of the book. If they miss 4-5 words on that page then the book is too hard. If they miss around 2 words then the book is JUST RIGHT. If they miss 1-2 words then it may be too easy. I would rather have a child read a book that’s too easy, than too hard.
It is extremely important that your child read a book that is at their JUST RIGHT reading level. They will not grow as readers if the book is too hard.
Don’t be afraid to ask your student to tell you about the book they are reading. That will help you gage if they comprehend the book as well. If they are not able to tell you a summary, or they say they forgot, that’s a read flag telling you the book is too hard.

Volunteers:

At open house many of you expressed wanting to help in the classroom. I am so thankful for such involved parents. I want to get a better handle on our routine before I start having people come in and help. I will send out an email later in the month. Currently I just need your help with building our class store. I have a reward system in my class where the kids are able to earn money for turning in homework and positive behavior.
However, they can also lose money for behavior in the class. At the end of the month we have a class store where students can buy items with the money they have saved. Unfortunately I can’t always buy a ton of stuff for the kids to buy each month. I will be relying on you to contribute a little if you can. In the past parents have bought items from the Dollar Tree, Capri suns, bags of mini candy bars, school supplies, items from their house they no longer use, or want. There is no need to spend a lot of money. Even if each student brought in one or two items our store would be set for September 30th. This is completely voluntary, but if you can please bring in some items for our class store.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Introducing Miss Hanson

To the parents of C3,

My name is Katie Hanson, and I am the student teacher in Mrs. Brown’s classroom this semester! I’m a senior at Corban University, and working to become an elementary teacher. While still a full-time student (taking classes Tuesday and Thursdays), I will be in the classroom Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

A few things about me. . .
- Born and raised in Salem
- Graduated from South Salem High School
- I love sports! I played soccer and basketball through high school, and I’m currently in the middle of my senior soccer season at Corban.
- Upper-elementary grades (4th and 5th) are my favorite because the students have such a fun sense of humor!

This semester is the precursor to my full-time student teaching in the Spring. These first two months at Forest Ridge I will be getting to know the students, and teaching some lessons here and there. Come November, I will be teaching a three-week social studies unit that I’m starting to prepare now. This is a busy time of putting together lesson plans and doing my own coursework, but I’m really excited for this time to be in the classroom and learn from Mrs. Brown! I’ve only been with your kids for several days so far, but I can already tell that I’m going to have so much fun with them! Unfortunately, I won’t be able to make it to the Parent Night because my soccer team will be gone in Arizona until the 22nd. Hopefully I will get another chance to meet you all!

Thursday, June 03, 2010

Here are some great sites for division practice. Trust me, everyone needs to work on their multiplication and division facts.

http://www.math-drills.com/division.shtml

http://www.mathsisfun.com/worksheets/long-division.php

http://www.dadsworksheets.com/

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math: graphing

Corrected papers are coming home tonight. Make sure you check backpacks to see your student’s outstanding work!

Thursday Thoughts and a few fliers are coming home as well.

Please remember ALL library books are due TOMORROW May 28th.

Please make sure students do not bring toys to school. They can bring them on Fridays for our Friday Free Time, but they need to stay in their backpacks until its time for the free time. Having toys is very distracting to everyone.

Attention 5th Grade Parents:
A red half slip of paper is coming home tonight. Please read through it carefully.

Have a great night!
Karrie Brown

Monday, May 24, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math: Graphs—most kids finished in class


Tomorrow is the 5th grade field trip to Fisherman’s bend. Please wear appropriate clothes and comfortable shoes. Students will go on an outdoor hike.

Choir field trip is May 28th

Remember May 26th is the last day for book orders.

ALL library books are due back my May 28th. Mrs. Loyd needs them all back by the 28th so they can do inventory. I believe the library will be open this summer. I will get back to you with more information.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Today was awesome. I hope you can attend next year. This is a really neat field trip for the kids to go on. Everyone worked really hard and had fun at the same time. I will send or post pictures when I can. A parent who attended will send them to me (my camera pooped out).

* Last year I created a CD of pictures I have taken of the class through out the year. The kids and parents really liked them. If you are interested in receiving a CD full of class pictures they are $3.00. I do them at Costco because I don’t know how to down load them on a CD from my computer.

* I have also received some things for our class store. They are mostly girl items. If you are able to bring in boy items that would be great. I have talked to the class about it and told them they could bring in toys they don’t play with any more. They need to check with parents first.

* Many students have expressed that they are going to be ordering books from the LAST book order of the year. Please make sure orders are in be May 26th. I want to make sure we get the books in before school is out.

* Reminder to all 5th grade parents: 5th grade field trip on Tuesday, May 26th.

Have a great weekend!

Karrie Brown

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes

Tomorrow is DBR. I gave a check list to each student of what to bring. The only thing that was not on the list (of course) was a water proof jacket in case it rains (which it probably will). We will be going rain or shine!

I also wanted to let you know, May 28th is when ALL Forest Ridge library books need to be turned in. There will be no more check out.

I would also like you and your student to look around your house for any books that belong to me. They will most likely have a pocket in the back, and my name in the book.
Starting in June I am going to ask the kids to not take them home any more. I hate to do that, but I need to do “inventory.”

To all 5th grade parents, we still need people to help out with the recognition on June 14th. Don’t forget to send your 5th grader with $2.00 as well.

Have a great night,
Karrie Brown

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Graphing—most kids got it done in class

June 14th will be our last class store. If you are able to donate anything for the kids to buy I would really appreciate it. Some things we need are: Juice boxes, snacks of any kind and whatever else you would like to contribute. I know this is a busy time of year, and for some expensive. Even if each parent bought one item that would really help.

May 26th is when I will be ordering books. It is our last book order of the year! Take this opportunity to make sure your students have great reading material for the summer.


Dear 5th Grade Families,

5th grade recognition night is coming fast! As we are going over all of the details, we are finding holes in areas that we need your help with. Here are some areas we need help with:

1. Decorate gym at 3:15 on June 14th. 12-15 parents are needed. Teachers will not be at school during this time. One of these parents needs to be in charge of arranging baby photos, of which the students will already bring in. Another parent will need to hang kids posters, of which will already be completed. If you are willing to take on this responsibility please contact Sara Koenig at koenig_sara@salkeiz.k12.or.us.

2. We need 10 flower bouquets. In the past, it has been easiest for one parent to do this. If you are willing to take on this responsibility please contact Karrie Brown at brown_karrie@salkeiz.k12.or.us.

3. We need one parent to pick up 20 balloons and table cloths (the roll of plastic table cloths works best). You will be reimbursed. Please use our colors. They are school colors: burgundy, blue, green. If you are willing to take on this responsibility please contact Sara Koenig at koenig_sara@salkeiz.k12.or.us.

4. This year the 5th grade gift is building an arbor for our Naturescape. We would like each student to bring in $2.00 for the gift, and we need parents to help guide the students building the arbor. If you are able to come help students build the arbor please contact Kyle Jorgensen: jorgensen_kyle@salkeiz.k12.or.us


So far these parents have a job:
Elizabeth Beazizo: picking up forks, plates, napkins, and cups in school colors.
Marci Hill: buying 4 ½ sheet cakes from Costco. Each cake should say: “ Congratulations 5th Graders” in school colors.
Deann Garcia: punch
Program: Emily Loyd
Flowers: Mrs. Walling

Thank you so much for helping this be a memorable night for your children!

Karrie Brown
Kyle Jorgensen
Sara Koenig

Monday, May 17, 2010

Homework:
math- graphing
Read 30 minutes

Tomorrow Whiteaker comes to talk with all 5th graders. 8th graders will be coming in to give our 5th graders the ins and outs of middle school.

May 21st is Down by the River Side If I emailed you, please make sure permission slips are in.

May 25th 5th grade field trip

May 26th Our last book order of the year is due. This is your last chance for a great deal on books!

May 28th ALL library books are due. NO more check out.

Monday, May 10, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
multiplication--some kids got it done in class

Today we had a guest speaker talk to us about Waste Free Lunches. Each student took home a paper describing how they can pack a waste free lunch. If they fill out the pledge and turn it in to me, they could win a Laptop lunch box!

Scholastic Book orders are also coming home. It will be our last book order of the year.

Have a great night

Friday, May 07, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes each day this weekend.

Don't forget to come help out tomorrow May 8th. We need people who know how to put a Big Toy together, and to help out in the nature scape.

If you are at all able to help out our class for Down By the Riverside I could really use your help.

Have a great mothers day!

Thursday, May 06, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Practice Cool Country speeches

Come to Family Fun Night!!

Lots of permission slips and information going home today!

Have a great evening!

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math--Mean, Median, Mode, Range

May 6th is our Family Fun Night! We have some great stuff for our Baby Basket. I have had one person bring in money, and I will pick up something. I love to shop, so if you just want to bring in a couple of dollars I can pick something up.
ALL ITEMS for the theme basket are due by APRIL 27th

Remember, Cool Country speeches should be ready to present May 7th

Please remember to turn in permission slips for the Oregon History Museum, and the Zoo.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Sorry about the no posting. Things get a little crazy every now and then.

Homework:
Read 30 minutes-- reading logs are due today
Math-- story problems, some kids got it done in class

Please make sure your student has pencils. I swear the kids eat them!

Baby items are still needed! We just got a beautiful story book, a memory book, a towel and some wash cloths. Please bring in more items.

Tuesday, April 06, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math—geometry


Reminders:

Book orders are due April 9th.

Our theme basket for Family Fun night is “Baby, Oh Baby.” Please bring in any NEW baby items. I sent a list out through email and there is a list on the blog under April 5th.
All items need to be in April 27th.
May 6th is Family Fun Night.
The class whose basket has the most people who want it will get something special! Let’s make this basket the BEST one!

Reading state testing is today and tomorrow

Math state testing is April 13th and 14th.

Monday, April 05, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math- points, lines, angles (some kids finished in class)



May 6th is our Family Fun Night. With every Family Fun Night each class creates a basket to be auctioned off that night. Our auction basket theme is “Baby, Oh Baby.” We need to fill our basket up with baby items: clothes, formula, diapers, wipes, baby food, toys, burp cloths, binkies, onesies, bottles, sippy cups, bibs, baby lotion, baby soap and shampoo…..that sort of thing. Target and Walmart are great places to shop for these items. All items need to be in by April 27th.


Don’t forget book orders are due April 9th. Remember you can order online.


We will start our second round of Oaks testing this month. Reading Oaks will be April 6th and 7th.
Math Oaks will be April 13th and 14th.

Corrected papers are also going home today. This would be a great day to check backpacks.

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes---Reading logs due tomorrow
Math--ploting points

Cool countries are due Tomorrow the 31st.

Monday, March 29, 2010

Homework:
Read for 30 minutes
Math—Geometry

April 15th we will be having a Multiplication/division quiz (some kids have moved on to division) please practice with your students.

Scholastic order forms are going home today. If you want to order books please have the orders to me by April 9, 2010. Remember, you can order online. Each time a parent orders online I am able to order a free book for our classroom library. The kids love new additions to the library. If you do not order online checks are the easiest ways for me to make the payment. Cash is fine too, but if you can, checks are the best.

For those I did not conference with, I am sending home a parent handbook with strategies for Multiplication and Division basic facts. If this works great, do what works best for your family and student. I am just passing along information I have.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Homework:
Read everyday of spring break. Reading logs are going home today, and a log from the library is coming home to keep track.

Students are also bringing home their Cool Country Report. Much of the work they need to get done is from the internet. We have had a number of class days to work on them. I would like them to all be done my March 31st. We will then work on a speech the students will make.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes---Reading logs are due
Math: ordered pairs---find the mystery picture

When we come back from Spring Break we will be measuring angles. Please make sure your student has a clear protractor. It’s much easier to measure angles if they can see through the protractor.

Monday, March 15, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Find an interesting article in the newspaper or magazine you would like to respond to in your writing journal.


Field trips coming up:
May 14th, we will be going to the Oregon History Museum.

The permission form will come home within the next couple of weeks. If you'd like to chaperone, please let me know. We're planning to pull out on the bus at 9:15 and be back at school at 2:00.

If you would like to chaperone and already have a completed background check form, you should be fine. If you have not completed one, but would like to go, contact the office (503-399-5548) as soon as possible to request those forms. It takes several weeks for the background check to be clear, so you'll want to get that ball rolling. If you have done a background check, but it was 5 or more years before the date of our trip, it will have expired. This especially affects you parents who may have done the background check when an older sibling was in kinder or first grade. I can check your expiration date if you would like.

Another event to put on your calendar is our Down By the Riverside trip to Willamette Mission State Park. That will be Friday, May 21st.

We are working on planning a trip to the zoo at the end of the year. Those plans are tentative at this point, but we're hoping to book the trip for Friday, June 11th. Stay tuned for more info on that soon.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Homework:

Read 35 minutes –Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Remember there is no school on tomorrow March 12th. I will be slaving away at my computer putting grades on report cards…..please feel sorry for me. :0)

Next week is a short week for students. March 18th and 19th there is no school.

Spring Break is from March 22-26. Kids come back the 29th, all rested and ready to learn some more!

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

homework: Read 30 minutes

Math--Most kids got it done in class

Tuesday, March 09, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes—reading logs due tomorrow
Math: area—most kids finished it in class.

Thank you so much for getting the Human Development slips and conference slips back to me. I am still missing a few. Please make sure you check backpacks.

Library books are due tomorrow (3-10-10)

We will be having a multiplication/division timed test the 11th.

No School on the 12th

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math: Perimeter


Book Fair:

March 1st-5th is our spring Book Fair! This is a chance to add to your home libraries. I encourage students to find “Just Right” books for themselves during this time. This is also an opportunity to add to our classroom library. Many of the books in our class library have been purchased by me, so any time I can wrangle in a donation or two I advertise! J All teachers have a wish list of books they feel will enhance their classroom libraries. Please feel free to chose a book from that list and donate it to your student’s classroom. The kids love getting new books. I have had some kids battle it out to get to the new books I have brought in.
A fl yer will go home today.

Book Fair Hours:
Before School 8:30-9:15
After School 3:00-4:00
Tuesday Evening: 5:00-7:00
Thursday Evening: 5:30-7:30

Monday, February 22, 2010

Homework
Read 30 minutes
Writing---If I sent it home with your student
Math—Accelerated math if I sent it home with your child

Friday, February 19, 2010

Homework:

Read 30 minutes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday


Important dates:
March 1- Slightly Illusional, Author visit
Book Fair starts
Parent Club meeting 6:45, Child care is provided

March 2- Read Across America

March 5- Book Fair ends

March 12- Grading day, NO SCHOOL

March 18-19 Spring Conferences

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math—subtraction with borrowing
Practice for the science fair

Reading logs (My Soap Box):
Last week only 12 out of 28 kids turned in their reading logs. There are some kids who have not turned in a reading in the last 5 weeks. I am hoping that even though they have not turned in a reading log, they are reading. That is the most important thing to me. I understand that it can be a pain in the neck to fill these out. Maybe your family can develop a homework system. The most important thing is, your child is reading a “just right” book everyday for 30 minutes. I have noticed that some kids are only reading for 30-45 minutes a week. Those are the kids who need the reading the most. If your student is below grade level in reading, the only way to move up is to read.

Science Projects are DUE TOMORROW!!

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math---most kids got it done in class

Tuesday, February 09, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes—Reading logs are due tomorrow
Math—Multiplication

I am going to start sending home less homework. I am hoping this will improve the amount I get back from students. Because I am sending less homework home, I do EXPECT it to get done and be turned in. I understand it’s hard as a parent to get kids to sit down and do the homework (my time is coming sooner than I think). It’s only going to get harder once middle school hits. If you have any concerns about this change in the homework, let me know.

FYI

This Thursday is Science Night! Gilbert House is bringing some great activities for families to do together.

If you listen to 105.1 the Buzz in the mornings you will know about the “Valentines Day for the CCA” It’s a fundraiser for the Children’s Cancer Association. You can help this Thursday by ordering a pizza from any Papa Murphy’s. A dollar of what you spend goes to the CCA. Plus Papa Murphy’s have the heart shaped pizzas available only $7.99.

Speaking of Valentine’s Day….Make sure your student has a box ready to collect their Valentines in. They can bring them in Feb. 11th and 12th!

Wednesday, February 03, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
math: mean,median, mode

Tuesday, February 02, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Subtraction sheet
Work on science fair project –Due the 18th

We are going to start working on a little bit of cursive. By 5th grade they need to be able to read it.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math

A few reminders:

No school Feb. 1st—Teacher In-Service

Book orders due Feb. 4th. Don’t forget you can order online and help your student’s class earn free books.

Don’t forget to have student earn money through reading or chores for the Heifer Project.

Multiplication/division test on Friday!!!

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes-- reading logs due tomorrow
math: range

Monday, January 25, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math: Mean, Median and Range

We start our first round of State Math tests tomorrow. Students will be given 3 opportunities to pass the test. We just finished our 1st round of reading. I am very pleased so far with the results. If you have any questions please let me know.

Book orders are due Feb. 4th. If you can order online that would be great. Our class gets a free book with every online order!

Remember Science Fair Projects are due Feb. 18th!

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math: Multiplication

A lot of stuff is going home today. Each student is bringing home their science fair informational packets and poster board. They are also bringing home: Thursday Thoughts, book orders, Heifer Project materials and reading logs.
Please let me know if you have any questions regarding any of this information.

Tomorrow (1-22-10) is the last day to order T-Shirts!
Dear Parent,
I have exciting news. You can now place your Scholastic Book Clubs orders online!
Browse all the great monthly Book Club selections at low prices and order online. Plus, our class earns a FREE Book every time a parent orders online.
Here's how it works:

1. Use the information below to access the Scholastic Book Clubs Web site.
2. Browse the titles with your child and place your order with your credit card.
3. Your order will come to me, and your credit card payment will go directly to Scholastic's secure server. There's no need to send money to school.
4. After I submit the entire class order to Scholastic, your order will be delivered to our classroom for your child to take home.
To get started, go to the Web address below and enter our class’s personalized user name and password in the sign-in fields on the right side of the page. Note: You do not need to create your own user name and password.
www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
User Name: mrsbrownc3
Password: brownc3
Ordering online is the most convenient way to use Scholastic Book Clubs. You can order anytime, right up until the online order due date. You'll also get instant access to over 500 additional titles plus online-only specials and discounts.
And don't forget: Every time a parent places an order online, we earn a FREE book for our classroom library!
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Karrie Brown
P.S. If you do not order online, paying with checks is the easiest for me. If you cannot pay with a check, that’s fine you can send cash.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes---reading logs due tomorrow
Multiplication sheet


Attention 5th grade parents,

JGEMS charter school is beginning its recruitment process for students entering the 6th grade in the fall of 2010. JGEMS is a charter school, which means it is a public school with the Salem Keizer School District. This is a GREAT school and would be a wonderful opportunity for your child to attend while they are in middle school. Mrs. Koenig has had students attend this school in the past and they always come back and tell her about how much they love it! There is no fee, but they choose the class through a lottery process. Also, here is there website if you are interested: http://www.jgems.net/index.php

If you are interested in attending a meeting to learn about this school, please email me back and I will send home a brochure with your child regarding program details, information meetings, and other important dates. I will be sharing this with my class on Tuesday. Also, mark your calendar for Feb. 18th, at 6:30pm in the Waldo Library (this is there required Information Meeting for all interested parents and students).

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Division
Practice flashcards—test on Friday

Reading logs were due today. Only 5 came back!

No TV Week:
January23-29

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Science: Atoms
Math: reducing fractions

Science Fair:
Its that time again! The Science Fair will be Feb. 18th. Information and poster board will be sent home January 21st. No need to panic just yet. But if you want to get a jump start of looking for that perfect science experiment now is the time.

Field Trip:
Just a reminder, we will be seeing Kiss Me Kate at McNary High School. Please remember to drop your student off at McNary at 8:45 AM. All 4th and 5th grade teachers will be there to meet the kids. If you are choosing not to have your student come they are still expected to be at school. They will be with Mrs. Randal.

On January 15th we are having a multiplication basic fact test. Practice, practice, practice.

January 21 and 22 we will be starting the first round of the State Reading Test. Students will have 3 chances to pass. Please make sure students come to school well rested and have full tummies.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Division math sheet


If your student has not returned their McNary Play field trip form please make sure they get it in as soon as possible.

We are running out of tissue. If you are able to bring another box, I would really appreciate it.

Wednesday, January 06, 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math sheet
Fact and opinion sheet

Class Store:
Our next class store is coming up at the end of the month (Jan.29). If you have any thing you would like to donate I would really appreciate it. I have a few things I picked up over the break.

Homework:
I have noticed the same kids over and over again not turning in their homework. I hate to do this, because it takes away from my planning time, but I am going to take away recess each time a student does not turn in their homework. They will have to complete it during that time. I hope this encourages those students to start bringing their homework back. I am also hoping to change this plan, so I can have my planning time back. I am brain storming some ideas with other teachers.

We are going to a play January 20th! Here is the permission slip that will be sent home on Thursday.

Forest Ridge fourth and fifth grade students will be taking a field trip on Wednesday, January 20th, 2010. We will be visiting McNary High School in Keizer to see the musical comedy play, Kiss Me Kate. The curtain will go up at 9:00 a.m. promptly.

Here is what will need to happen differently on that day:

PLEASE DROP YOUR FOURTH OR FIFTH GRADE STUDENT AT MCNARY HIGH SCHOOL AT 8:45 A.M. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20TH. YOUR STUDENT IS TO MEET HIS OR HER TEACHER IN THE COMMONS. The commons is the room they will be in after walking through the front doors- no chance of getting lost. PLEASE BE ON TIME!

It is our hope that all 4th and 5th graders will be able to attend the play. However, any students who do not come to McNary that morning, are to come to Forest Ridge at the regular time to do morning activities in room C-4. Children attending the play will be transported by school bus to the school in time for lunch.

This field trip is FREE!

Because of limited seating at the play, we are not taking chaperones on this trip.

We are looking forward to this exciting opportunity!

Mrs. Kerr Mrs. Brown Mrs. Randall Mrs. Koenig Mr. Jorgensen

Tuesday, January 05, 2010

Homework:
Read 20 minutes—Reading logs due tomorrow
Division worksheet
Fact and Opinion sheet


Play:
Missoula Montana Children's Theatre Company is in town this week producing a children's play "Princess and the Pea". There will be two performances on Saturday at Claggett Creek Middle School. 3pm and 5:30pm Adults $8
There are a number of students from Forest Ridge in the play. Come support our kids!

Fun Things to do in January:

*KEIZER ART ASSOCIATION
cartooning: Tuesdays, Jan. 5th-Feb. 2nd $50 for 5weeks ages 7-12
take this class if you like to draw, laugh, and share cartoon stories
kids clay class: Saturdays, Jan 30th-Feb. 2nd 11-12pm 4 weeks $40 Ages 6-15 or older!
creating projects from clay and fire in a kiln
Register for classes at www.keizerarts.com or call 363-5667

*LANCASTER MALL KIDS CLUB
Thursday, January 7th 6-7pm Free Make a Snowman

*BULLWINKLE'S FUN CENTER
Family Fun Friday! Jan. 9th 5-9pm $10 gets you unlimited laser tag, max flight, kidopolis, and more!
Must call and reserve spot @ (425) 228-7300 X13

*LOWES BUILD AND GROW KIDS CLINICS
Saturday, Jan. 9th Coin Bank
Saturday, Jan. 23rd Tic Tac Toe 10-11am Free Register @ Lowes.com

*MISSION MILL FAMILY DAY
Saturday, Jan. 9th Potato Stamp Cards Free 11-1

*NORTHERN LIGHTS THEATRE DOUBLE PLAY SATURDAY (Play, Movie, Pizza, Snacks)
Saturday, Jan. 9th $11 Doors open 11:45 Play: Princess and the Pea
Movie:TBA

*STRAUB ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER (1120 A Street NE Salem)
Nature kids Classes Free Call to RSVP 391-4145
Wednesday, Jan. 13th "Watersheds" 2nd & 3rd graders
Wednesday, Jan. 20th "Watersheds" 4th & 5th graders 4-5:30 pm

*SALEM PUBLIC LIBRARY NO TV WEEK JAN 23-29 SLEEPOVER!!!
THE GREAT LIBRARY CAMP IN!!!!! Lots of FUN!!!!! Come find a comfy spot with us=)
Step 1: Submit your pledge to turn off your T.V for one week @ www.salemlibrary.org YOU CAN DO THIS!!!
Step 2: Make your reservation by calling 588-6088
Step 3: Keep your pledge and do not turn your t.v on Jan. 23rd-Jan. 29th
Step 4: Arrive at the Library Friday, Jan 29th at 6:30pm Bring your sleeping bag, pillows,etc. and get ready for a fun night of games, crafts, snacks, door prizes, and more!

*MICHAELS
Saturday, Jan. 30th Valentines Day Frame $1 12-2pm

Monday, January 04, 2010

Happy 2010

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Division worksheet

Our tissue supply is running low. If you are able to contribute more tissue that would be great! The sniffle monster has been around.