Homework:
Read 30 minutes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
This is using our new and improved reading log for the week. Kids bring them to turn in to me on Wednesday. A new reading log will be sent home on Thursdays.

I sent home book orders today. We talked about ways to earn books (helping out around the house, babysitting….). If you would like me to recommend books for your child I would love to help. I am still getting to know them as readers, but I can sure try and help. I know how to look up levels of books.
You can also order the books online. I have sent home a letter explaining how to do so. I will also include it in this blog entry. For every order I get online we get a free book for our classroom! This will help me to provide more book choices for the students. I buy a lot of books for the class, so it will also save my wallet… he he he. Book Orders are due Sept. 30th. I will order all of the books that afternoon.

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

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Math sheet

A change in reading slips:

Forest Ridge is starting a school wide at home reading program. Each Thursday, students will bring home a bookmark/reading log to track their reading at home. This will help encourage kids to become better readers and promote reading outside of school. I started the year off with the reading slips, because we wanted to introduce the new reading program to students all at once Friday (tomorrow) at a school wide assembly. We want to pump them up and get them excited about reading. So please note the change in their reading slips tomorrow.

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Multiplication sheet


Today I am sending home a form for Math Whizz: the Online Tutor. I would like all of my students to have this wonderful program available to them. I have seen great growth in students from last year. It is $50.00 for a year. If you ordered it from the web site it would be $19.99 a month. Ordering it through the school is a much better deal. If the price is a bit shocking, just think about how much money you spend renting video games or buying video games. This is an educational tool that is also fun. Students usually beg to do it in class.

Homework:

Read 30 Minutes
2’s Multiplication sheet
5th grade choir kids have in class work to do
Bring decorations such as: stickers, pictures to decorate Writers Notebooks with


Being Absent:
When your child is absent they are still expected to read for 30 minutes each day and bring in a reading slip. Any other homework and/or class work that is missed will be sent home to finish at home.

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Finish addition worksheet from class

A Bit of House Keeping:
1. Please remind student’s that planners and homework folders are due back at school every day.

2. I still need a few Emergency Closure forms

The Second Day!

Homework:
Read 30 minutes
Bring $5.00 for planners
Make sure students have 4 different colored spiral notebooks by Monday Sept. 14th.


Important papers:
Important papers are being sent home with our messengers (the youngest student in the family or the only student in a family). Please make sure to go through them and sign or fill out the ones that need it. Thursdays are the days when Thursday Thoughts go home, and corrected papers go home.


Harry Potter:
This summer I read the first three Harry Potter books. I absolutely fell in love with them. I know and understand that some parents are not fans of these books. I would like to begin reading the first Harry Potter book next month. Please let me know if you are opposed. I know some parents are worried about the magic in the book. I had my doubts too, but I would never read something I thought would be inappropriate in my class. These are great books. However, if there are a number of people who would not like me reading them I will change my choice.

A New Year

We are off to a great start! I have really enjoyed spending the day with the students. This should be a great week!


Homework:
Read 30 minutes.
Parent volunteer form
Parent contact information
I would really like these two forms to be filled out and brought back tomorrow

Mistake with planners:

The student planners the 4th and 5th graders are to have are actually $5.00. When they were ordered the price went up from last year. I was unaware of this until this morning. If you have already paid the $3.00 please send $2.00 when you can. Otherwise please send $5.00 with your student sometime this week for a student planner.

I would like each student to have a Student Planner By Friday the 11th.

Students will be bringing home a classroom informational packet today. Some parents took them home yesterday at Open House. Here is a copy of it:

September 2, 2009

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I wanted to take a few minutes to introduce myself, and tell you a few things to get us started this week.

A Little about Myself:
My name is Karrie Brown. I grew up in Salem, Oregon and attended Western Baptist College (now Corban College) for my Bachelors, and Masters Degree. This is my eleventh year teaching. My husband and I live in Silverton with our 21 month old daughter Abigail, and our 3 year old Black Lab Bailey. If you ever have any questions or concerns please call me at 503-399-5548 or you can email me, brown_karrie@salkeiz.k12.or.us.

During open house I will be collecting as many email address I can to keep an open line of communication open. It is usually best to contact me through email. Sometimes it is hard to reach me by phone because of meetings and such. I do return phone calls as soon as possible, but email is a lot faster. I also send out a lot of classroom information through my classroom blog http://forestridgefalconsc3.blogspot.com/. Homework assignments will also be posted each day on the blog. It is so important for me to get information to you, so please check your email and our blog.


Lunch and Snack:
Since our lunch does not start until 12:10, I am allowing students to bring a simple healthy snack to munch on during class. Please keep these snacks easy, not too messy, and of course healthy. No cookies or candy.

Students are also welcome to bring water bottles to class. Only water is allowed in the bottle, no juice or pop.

Supplies:
2 glue sticks
Pencil sharpener
4 spiral notebooks of different colors or pictures
Protractor
Crayons
1 package of notebook paper (they can either give it to me to share, or keep in their desk)
Please do not have your child bring a binder. They will not need them in my class.
These supplies are in addition to the schools.

Student Planners: All of the 4th and 5th grade students will be using student planners this year. These planners will cost $3.00. This is a great way to keep track of your student’s homework assignments, and communicate with the teacher. It also prepares them for Middle School.

Classroom Rules:
Always tell the truth no matter what.
Obey all teachers
Include everyone
Raise your hand
Use your common sense.

At Forest Ridge we want our students to feel safe in the classroom. In order to do these rules need to be followed. We want the students at our school to Be Safe, Be Responsible, and Be Respectful,

Consequences:
First warning is name on the board
One check by name misses part of recess
Two checks notice of concern or a call home
Three checks all of the above
*Any inappropriate behavior that is a constant everyday thing may require a meeting with the parents.

Classroom Management

I have fake Ms. Hughes (my maiden name) money. Students will be able to earn this money by turning in homework, good behavior in class and class jobs.I want this to be a real world learning experience for them. They will need to pay rent for the space they live (their desks) and will be fined for inappropriate behavior. I am going to set up a banking system so they can learn to plan ahead and save money. This will be a topic of many discussions. I am sure regulations will be added to this. I did this with my first class at Lake Labish and it really got them thinking about how money works, what their parents have to deal with each month and so on. It was a great thing! I am hoping that kids will understand if they don’t perform and do their jobs then they will not get paid. At the end of each month I will have a store for the kids. This is where your help is needed. If you have any old toys, or games or books…..and you want to get rid of them, send them my way. I can sell those things at the store. If you would like to buy snacks or anything for me to sell that would be great as well. Here are some suggestions for snacks if you need them: Capri suns, individual bags of chips, candy, or anything you think is good. If you want you can check with me if you have a question. School supplies would also be good. I am going to go to the dollar tree and see what they have. Student will be able to but 2 things each. I know I ask a lot from you guys, but with out you I could not do it! I really appreciate all of your help and the willingness you all have! I think this will be really fun for the kids.Homework is one way they can earn money. For everyday they bring their homework back they will earn $5.00. They can earn $25.00 a week on homework


Electronics/phones and Toys:
I do not allow electronics, phones or toys in the classroom. If there is a need for a cell phone then the phone needs to be turned completely off and given to me at the beginning of class. When school is out I will give it back, and the students can not turn them on and talk to people until they are out of the building. Last year I had a few kids bring electronics and phones and they either lost them or they were stolen. If electronics are brought then they will need to be given to me as well, and I will pass them out at the end of the day. It is best to leave those things at home. However, I do understand if a phone is needed.

Book Orders:
Once a month I try and send out Scholastic Book Club order forms. This is a great way to get great titles for your child at a very reasonable price. I have even started ordering for my little one! The date for when the order forms are due will be on the back, and if you send a check make it payable to Scholastic Books. With each order I receive points. With those points I can buy free books for our classroom. Not only are you buying great books for your kids, you are also helping to build a better classroom library for them.

Thursdays:
I will try and send corrected papers home every Thursday along with Thursday Thoughts. Just know that Thursdays would be a great day to go through your child’s backpackJ.

Birthdays:
Birthdays can be celebrated in the class. I prefer the last 15-20 minutes of the day. Please let me know 2-3 days in advance before the party.

Here is a look at the curriculum we are using at Forest Ridge

LITERACY

The comprehensive literacy model used in the classroom to teach reading includes the following components: purposeful instruction, modeled reading, shared reading, guided reading, and independent reading, and word study. The students will be using a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction texts throughout the year. There will be an emphasis on helping children find “Just Right” texts to be successful readers who increase their reading skills all year long.

P.E.

Your child will be attending P.E. class 3 days each week: TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, and THURSDAY. Students need to wear shoes and clothing appropriate for P.E. participation.




MATH

The core math program for Forest Ridge is Investigations. This program uses a lot of hands on activities, and working with others. Students seem to enjoy working with manipulative.
Math facts work (primarily through math games) and math problem-solving will occur on a regular basis.

A supplemental program is our “Every Day Counts” calendar math. Many concepts are introduced and reinforced at this time. These activities are done each morning, so it is important that your student arrive at school on time so they do not miss this part of math.


SPELLING

The Rebecca Sitton Spelling and Word Skills program will be used. Instead of a “spelling list” going home each Monday with a test to follow on Friday, in class there will be daily work and instruction which is research-based to ensure that students learn to spell for writing. That is, to spell words forever, not just for a test. Assessment will occur in class, and students will bring home words they have not yet mastered. These words can be worked on at home and will continue to be used in the lessons at school.

WRITING

The students will be provided instruction in many modes of writing, including narrative, imaginative, expository, and persuasive. We will focus on the structure of sentences, paragraphs, and multi-paragraph papers. Purposeful instruction will include modeled writing, shared writing, guided writing, and independent writing. The kids will use journals, writers notebooks, and word processing.



Thank you for your time,



Karrie Brown

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet—Multiplication and Division

Homework
Read 20 minutes
work on book reports

Book reports due tomorrow!!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Reading sheet
Practice 8's flash cards
Math sheet

Book report due June 5th

Year Books forms and money are due tomorrow June 3rd!

Summer Library Hours
The library will be open during the following hours:Wednesdays from 10-11: June 17,24 and July 1,22,29, August 5th is return only

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Practice 8’s flashcards
Math sheet
Work on book report

Book Reports are Friday June 5th!

Field day:
Forest Ridge needs your help. If you are able to volunteer to run an activity contact the school or sign up in the lobby.

Class Store:
Our last class store is upon us. If you have anything you would like to donate please send it with your student. We got some great stuff for May's store. Here are some ideas: water bottles, side walk chalk, treats, drinks, summer fun toys....all of these things can be a $1.00 or less. Please don't feel like you have to spend a fourtune. If you have anything at home to get rid of we'll take that as well.

Lots of Information

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Practice flash cards
Math sheet

Year Book Time
The youngest person/only child is bringing home a blue year book form home today, along with Thursday Thoughts. If you would like a year book fill out the form and return the form and $5.00 by June 3rd. Year books will be delivered on Monday June 8th.

Lost and Found
Make sure the lost and found is checked for lost items. On June 15th all unclaimed items will be donated to a local charity.

Field Day
Field Day is June 12th! Volunteers are needed to help run the activities. If you are interested there is a sign up sheet in the lobby.


Summer Library Hours
The library will be open during the following hours:
Wednesdays from 10-11: June 17,24 and July 1,22,29, August 5th is return only

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Multiplication sheet
Practice 8’s flash cards---test next Wednesday
Scholastic News Page 8


I received a number of the parent letters back, I sent home yesterday. We will be meeting tomorrow morning. I will do my best to honor your request, but please keep in mind we need your flexibility should we be unable to keep class size equal.

Thank you for your quick responses! You are a great group of parents!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Oregon Studies Weekly crossword (if not done in class)
Work on book report

Reminder:
Book reports are due June 5th. Students should be finishing up their books by now, and starting their projects and speeches. I am so excited to see what the kids come up with.

I also want to remind you about the CD’s I can put together for your student. I can order a CD of pictures through Costco. I have pictures of your student’s 4th grade year. This way your student will have pictures of their friends and themselves. If you are interested the CD’s are $3.00. It is pictures of field trips, class activities and so on. Let me know if you have any questions.

Important Stuff

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math Sheet
Practice 7’s flashcards—Test Tomorrow!

Choir Tour:
Choir kids who turned in their permission slips will be on their choir tour tomorrow. They will return around 1:00.

Tonight is the Forest Ridge Choir Concert at 6:30. Kids have to be here at 6:15. Please wear Choir shirts.

Dates to Remember:
May 22nd—Choir Tour
May 25th—No School
June 5th – Book report presentations!!
June 12—Last Kid Day L I’ll miss them!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Read scholastic news and complete page 8

Behavior Issues:
We have 4 more weeks of school left and I can feel it. I have been noticing issues of name calling, inappropriate language or words, not listening to me, and having little regard for the people around them. This needs to stop. I have had to really crack down on the kids. I do not enjoy being a grumpy teacher all the time. My goal is to have these last few weeks be fun yet educational. However, I can not do the fun things I would like to do if the class is out of control. I will be emailing parents or having the student call their parents if I continue to see such behavior.

Class store:
A few parents have donated things to the class store. Thank you so much! If you can pick up one thing for $1.00 or less to contribute to the store that would really help. I have gathered a few things myself, but still need your help. I know times are tough.....trust me. Just do what you can.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math Sheet


Reminder:
Book reports are due June 5th! If you have any questions please let me know.

Class Store:
Our Next class store will be May 29th. Our last class store will be June 12th. Some parents have brought stuff in for the store. Thank you so much. If anyone else can donate a little that would help out so much. I know I ask a lot of you. I really appreciate your help in being able to do fun things with the kids.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Division sheet
Finish Oregon Studies Weekly crossword from class

With summer coming up I thought I would pass along some of the great websites I have been using, to help your students practice and stay up to date with their basic facts. They all need to really practice!

http://www.mathfactcafe.com/

http://www.multiplication.com/index.htm

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

http://www.kidzone.ws/

http://themathworksheetsite.com/ This website requires a subscription.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Division sheet
Read Scholastic News ---complete page 8


The end of the year is near and I want to keep you posted on some of the plans I have.

1. Our last class store will be in June. The class gets so excited when its class store time. I am gathering things for it, but could really use your help. If you have any books or toys your kids are done with they would be great for our store. If you would like to buy a little something to donate that works too. The dollar store has some great stuff: bubbles, sidewalk chalk, squirt guns, water balloons, snacks, drinks, gum, decks of cards, candy, stickers, silly string...The kids love little things like that. In the past we have had chips, Capri suns, and other snacks. Those are great too. If you can help out that would be great!

2. On the blog a week or two ago, I mentioned having Costco create a CD of pictures taken this year. I have some pictures I still need to download, and still want to take. If you are interested it is $3.00, and I will make sure your student gets them before the end of the year. I want to wait a little while because of Down By the River, and a few other events I want pictures of. One parent has already sent in the $3.00. Have y This is only if you are interested. If you want one send in the $3.00 and I will put your students name down.

Have a great week! If you have any questions let me know.

Karrie Brown

100 Posts!

I can't believe it, I have completed 100 posts on this blog! WOW!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Reading sheet
Division worksheet and Multiplication from class

Have a great evening!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Finish blue math sheet from class—try hard, and do your best.


Summer Birthdays:
A number of kids have come up and asked if they could celebrate their birthday even though its in the summer. I am fine with that. I will leave it up to you and your child to pick a day to celebrate it. Let me know a few days ahead of time. We do birthdays from 2:45-3:00.

Down By The River:
Weather wise I am not sure what will happen. Make sure your child has shoes that are comfortable, and can get a little dirty. Make sure clothes are able to get a little dirty, and are appropriate for the weather. Layering would be a good idea. With our luck it will rain.

Family Fun Night Tonight

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Finish blue math sheet from class
Come to Family Fun Night!

I hope to see all of you at Family Fun Night tonight. Abby and I will be here at 6pm and will stay for a little while. It should be a lot of fun!!

Spring Fever!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math Sheet

Please remember a Ball Point pen. Each child will need one Thursday and Friday for a special project we are doing.

Spring had Sprung:

Love is in the air here in the C-pod. I have been hearing a lot of talk about “going out” with people and so forth. Surprisingly it’s the boys talking about it. Usually the girls start all of this. Please talk to your student about this. Its inappropriate to be bringing this up at school, and very distracting in class. We have had a few upset kids.

We had a class meeting about the “going out” thing. I encouraged the students to talk to their parents about what dating is, and when they should start. I also told them a little about me, and how I waited a very long time to date. The funny thing is, most of them knew why people date (leading to marriage). I have never had 4th graders into this before. I also stressed how its important to enjoying being a kid. I hope those were ok for me to address. It just seemed to escalate through out the day.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Finish math work from class
Read through Scholastic News complete pg 8

A thought: I have a number of pictures of the class doing things through out the year. I was thinking that if parents were interested I could make CD's of the pictures I have and order them through Costco. They would be around $3.00. Let me know if this is something are interested in. I will order them in June.

DBTR

Homework:
Read 40 minutes


Down By The River:
Please make sure your student has brought back the permission slips (there are 2) for Down By The River. I need to make sure I order lunches for kids who need one from school.

Have a great weekend!

Good Information to know

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Go to Music program


Sorry for all of the emails today. I have to send them out while they are in my head so I don’t forget. Sometimes if I wait until the end of the day, I forget.

Important Things:
1. It is towards the end of the year again and time to graduate another 5th grade class. I know you don't want to hear this, but next year it will be your kids... What that means for us this year is that the 4th grade at Forest Ridge would like to provide some parent volunteers to help serve punch and cake so that the 5th grade parents can savor the moment of this great event. The thought is that you pay it forward so that next year's 4th grade parents will do the same for you.
Getting to the point, does anyone want to help out on :

Thursday, June 11th at 7:00 pm

2. Our artist in residence will be starting work on the mosaic mural with the Forest Ridge kids soon. He has requested any pieces of tile you may have at home left over from home improvement projects. If you have some you could send in to the office with your student, it would be appreciated.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Division math sheet--do your best
practice 6's flashcards

Today we took a multiplication quiz. The students had 5 minutes to complete 50 questions. From the information I gathered from this test every student needs to practice multiplication facts. If you have flash cards please practice each night. I have sent home flash cards with 6's on them to practice.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet--Elapsed time

Our Magnus Tree Farm field trip is tomorrow. Please make sure students wear weather appropriate clothes. Rain is in the forecast.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes


Today we had a number of kids missing due to Take Your Child to Work Day. I am so excited to hear about all of the fun things your child got to do with you at work. I will make sure I set aside some time for them to share.

In class today we finished some writing, worked on some Oregon research for our technology project, played a math game, painted a poster for Family Fun Night, and then relaxed while watching Charlotte's Web. I was also able to get some reading tests done.

May 7th is our Family Fun Night! We have some great movies for our basket, and 1 Regal Cinema gift card. It would be great to add some candy to the mix. If you can bring a few candy bars to add to our basket that would be great!
May 1st is the last day to gather movies, gift cards and goodies for our Family Movie Night Basket!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Scholastic news pg 8

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Reading sheet
Math sheet


Just a Reminer,Take Your Child to Work Day:On April 23, parents who take their child to work as part of this national day must send a note to school the day before or after the absence for the student to not be counted as absent. We will be holding regular class that day, so parents should decide whether to have their child attend school or go with them.

Mark Your Calendars!
National No TV Week April 20th -26th
April 24th Earth day Assembly
April 29th Community budget meeting 7pm at McNary
April 30th 4th and 5th grade concert 6:30pm
May 7th is Family fun night!!

Our Movie Night Basket:
We are currently at a stand still. If you are able to bring something in for our basket please do before May 1st.
Thank you.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Place value math sheet
cut out 6's multiplication flash cards and study every night this week

4th and 5th grade progam:
The 4th and 5th grade program is April 30th at 6:30. Students need to be in the music room between 6 and 615 pm. If your student is unable to make it please write a note to Miss Andeen letting her know. She does not want to give a student a job at the program if they will not be there.

Field trip:
I will be sending home the Magnus Tree Farm field trip slips home tomorrow. Its April 28th. I need volunteers so if you can come please let me know.

Lots of Information

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet---rounding
Scholastic news---read through the news and answer questions on page 8


Our Next Field Trip:
On April 28, we will be going to the Magnus Tree Farm. This will be a great opportunity for your student to learn about trees and forests. Next year the 5th grade does a huge tree unit. This will help prepare them. I will send permission slips home Monday the 20th.

Take Your Child to Work Day:
On April 23, parents who take their child to work as part of this national day must send a note to school the day before or after the absence for the student to not be counted as absent. We will be holding regular class that day, so parents should decide whether to have their child attend school or go with them.

Mark Your Calendars!

National No TV Week April 20th -26th
April 17th Volunteer Appreciation 8:15am
April 24th Earth day Assembly
April 29th Community budget meeting 7pm at McNary
April 30th 4th and 5th grade concert 6:30pm

May 7th is Family fun night!!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Bird Art

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet

The field trip was a blast. Ask your students about what they did and made. It will amaze you! I will post pictures as soon as I can. We’ll see how tired I am after Abby goes to bed J.

Movie Night Basket update:
We have just received Fiddle Faddle(yummy), 2 pink panther movies, and an animated movie called Happily Ever After, and a 15 dollar gift card to Regal Cinemas!! Remember it does not have to be an expensive item. We need candy and Wal-Mart had $5.00 movies all the time. Bring in what you can.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
math sheet from class

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes


Movie Night Basket update: We got 2 more movies; Freaky Friday, and The Haunted Mansion along with some popcorn. If you need some inexpensive ideas for the basket we need some candy!!

Field Trip:On Tuesday the bus will leave the school at 9am. Your child needs to be at school at 8:45am! Its very important they are not late to school

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Hand writing sheet
Math sheet—finish class work

Movie Night Basket Update:
Today a student brought in Kung Fu Panda!! I am so excited. I may need to win this basket! J

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Reading sheet


Field trip:

Permission slips went home yesterday for out field trip to Champoeg Park. We need to make sure we get a lunch ordered for your child if they need one. Please send the permission slip back ASAP. I will ask students today who needs a lunch from school. Hopefully they will let you know if they asked for a lunch from school.
This field trip will give us a great visual of how the pioneers lived. I am so excited we get to go!

Movie Night Basket Update:
We have received Spider-Man 2, Back to the Future Trilogy set, Spider Man, Marley and Me, The Cat and the Hat, some pop, candy, chips, pop corn. Thanks for these great contributions!! Keep them coming! I am pretty sure movies need to be new.

A Big Thank You!

Thank you so much to the people who brought in Friday party treats and store items! I really appreciate it.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes

Family Fun Night Basket update:
A student brought in 2 DVD's. Spider-Man 2, and a Back to the Future set of all three! I just wanted to let you know so we don't duplicate.

Class store:
I have had one parent bring in stuff for our class store at the end of each month. If you have forgotten I am doing a money system in my room. I was thinking.....It is so hard for us to go out and buy stuff for the store, and I feel bad to only have one parent buying everything. If possible, could you send $.50 with your child, and I can put that towards the class store. If every student brought in 50 cents I could buy some cool stuff from the Dollar Tree (my favorite store!). Let me know if you have any questions.

Friday Party Treats:
Thank you to the parents who brought in bags of candy! Keep them coming if you can. The kids and I really appreciate it!

Is it me or has this been a crazy week. It may be me….. J

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Scholastic news


Today I am sending home Thursday Thoughts. Attached to them is a bunch of informational papers about Easter Egg Hunts and Summer Camps. They both sound like a lot of fun!!

Family Fun Night May 7th
If you remember each class collects things for baskets to auction off at the Family Fun Night!! Our theme is Movie Night. I am sending home an informational paper about what to do. My idea was to collect DVD’s, gift cards to video stores, gift cards to Regal Cinemas, candy and popcorn. Of course if you have any great ideas for the Movie Night Basket bring them in!! These items need to be brought to C3 by May 1st.

Field Trips:
Just a reminder, we are going on 2 field trips this month! April 14th we are going to Champoeg park to learn about the settlers of Oregon. So far I have two volunteers for this trip. I would love a few more. If you are able to come please let me know.

April 28th we are going to the Magnus Tree farm. I would also like volunteers for that trip. If you can make please let me know.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Multiplication worksheet
Reading sheet


Book Report:

I am going to be sending home directions for our next book report today. Please read through the directions. Books need to be selected by Friday, April 3rd at the latest. I have many books students can choose from. Our school library also has a ton. I am going to TRY and see if I can get into the library this week and have Mrs. Loyd help us out. When picking books, please remember to choose just right books.

Field Trips Coming Up!

April 14th Champoeg Park
April 28th Magnus Tree Farm

I would love volunteers to be group leaders for these two trips. If you can make it let me know!
Make sure you current with out criminal background check.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet-- Fractions
Study for Oregon Trail test—test tomorrow
Study spelling words---test tomorrow

The library will be open Wednesday and Thursday afternoon / evening - unless Mrs. Loyd is at lunch or dinner. The plan is she will be here 5-8 Wednesday and 3-8 Thursday. Kids are welcome to come in and check books out if they need to.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Reading sheet—Cause and Effect
Math Sheet
Social studies if not completed in class


Friday Party Treats:
We are desperately low on Friday Party treats. Unfortunately once we run out, we are out. I can not afford to fill the box by myself. If you are all able to buy 1 bag of candy that would be great. I have one parent who has been buying stuff for the parties; I just don’t want to tap her out. Any help you can give would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Study spelling words—Test Wednesday 18th

Report Cards are going home today.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
math sheet--fractions
Reading sheet--cause and effect

Tomorrow is Pajama day!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
No math
Reading sheet—Cause and Effect
Handwriting


March 13th is a C3 Pajama day! We have talked about this, but if your child wears PJs on Friday please make sure they are clean. We had a health lesson on keeping our bodies and clothes clean on Monday.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Finish math from class---most kids finished
Reading Sheet

Conference slips are going home today. Please sign and return ASAP.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Fraction Math sheet
Practice spelling--- new words posted on blog

Book Fair:

The Book Fair has been extended to March 10th. One more day to buy quality books for your student. You can also donate a book to our class by looking at the teacher wish list.

Clarification:
I just want to make sure that everyone knows we do have school March 18th. No school the 19 and 20. Spring break is from March 23-27. All student return March 30th!

I am so sorry I have not posted in the last two days!! Life has been busy with getting ready for report cards.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Scholastic News page 8


Book Fair:

Tonight is the last night the Book Fair is open in the evening from 6:00-8:00. Come buy some great books for your kids. You are also able to donate books to our class. Check out the teacher wish list.

Important dates in March:

March 6—No School, grading day
March 13—C3 Pajama day
March 18-19 --- Conferences (there is school on the 18th).
March 23-27 – Spring Break
March 30th – Back to school!

Read In Pictures---finally :)

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Practice Spelling words—Test on Thursday March 5th!

Book Fair/ Young Authors Night:
The Book Fair is in full swing! Remember that tomorrow night from 5:30-7:30 you can go to the Book Fair and shop for great books for your student, and see their writing as well. They have all worked very hard on their writing and are very proud. Come see their work.

*Don’t forget, you can also buy books for our classroom too. Just check the teacher wish list at the Book Fair!

C-3 Happenings:
Mrs. Tucker is doing a great job with the class. I have had the pleasure of being in the room, getting other work done, while watching her teach. Last week they made ice cream in science while learning about the 3 states of matter. Ask your student if they can tell you the three states of Matter.

She is also taking them through the Oregon Trail. Mrs. Tucker is using real situations that could happen on the Oregon Trail to help the kids experience life on the trail.


I will post Read In pictures later tonight!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes

Book Fair/Young Authors night information:

The book fair is from March 2-9th 8:30-9:15 am and 3:00-4:00 pm
Here is the evening schedule for the book fair:
March 3rd 5:30-7:30 pm. March 3rd is also Young Authors Night. Each teacher will display their students writing. Come and see what your student has been writing in class!
March 5th 6:00-8:00pm

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Fraction math sheet

The Book Fair is here!!!!

The Book Fair will be here from March 2nd- March 9th. Today we went and created a wish list. Each student walked through the book fair and picked a couple books they would really like to have. Time to work hard on those chores! While kids are picking books remember to ask them if it’s a good fit book. Remind them of the 5 finger test. Teachers are also able to create a wish list. If you would like to buy a book for our classroom, look for the display of all the teachers’ names. There are pockets filled with books we would like to add to our classroom libraries.

Today corrected papers and Thursday Thoughts are going home. Be on the look out. You may want to check back packs J.

Remember:

Fourth Grade Read-In!

Mrs. Brown’s fourth graders are going to celebrate Read Across America day on Monday, March 2nd. We will be having an ALL-AFTERNOON READ-IN! The kids will get to choose their own reading material for the afternoon. To make this even MORE fun, kids are allowed to bring a comfy thing like a pillow or blanket, and munch on healthful snacks that they bring from home. I have had many wonderful read-ins with classes in previous years, and I’m sure this one will be great as well! Please contact me if you have any questions.
Mrs. Brown

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Read scholastic News complete page 8
Handwriting

It seems that homework has been thrown to the wayside. The amount of homework coming in has declined. I have even been sending less home. It is so important that students read 20 minutes each night in order to become better readers. It is also important for students to learn the responsibility of doing homework and turning it in. I always send home stuff that needs to be practiced and remembered. So its not busy work, its important work.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Reading sheet

Fourth Grade Read-In!

Mrs. Brown’s fourth graders are going to celebrate Read Across America day on Monday, March 2nd. We will be having an ALL-AFTERNOON READ-IN! The kids will get to choose their own reading material for the afternoon. To make this even MORE fun, kids are allowed to bring a comfy thing like a pillow or blanket, and munch on healthful snacks that they bring from home. I have had many wonderful read-ins with classes in previous years, and I’m sure this one will be great as well! Please contact me if you have any questions.
Mrs. Brown



Tomorrow is the 100th day of school. Can you believe it!! This year is flying by!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Multiplication sheet
Create 4 fraction halves---as demonstrated in class


Pencils:
Thank you so much to the parents who brought in more borrowing pencils. I was very surprised by all the help!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes

This week has been a little odd with many things happening. Homework will be back in full swing next week.

Today we had a spelling test. I could tell that many students did not study. Their scores were very low. I will give them another chance to practice and better their scores.

I will post a few more pictures from the science fair this weekend.

Have a great weekend!

Science Fair

I wasn't able to get everyone, because I forgot I had my camera. Here are a few students and there Science Projects. I will try and get more pictures tomorrow.

Madelyn...is it solid or liquid?

Can Matt provide enought electricity to light the light bulb?

Will Cody be come an artist when he grows up?

GO Beavers!

Can Maddy blow the worlds largest bubble? I think she can!!

Will Haley discover a new crystal?

Will Sam find any more grammatical errors in Mrs. Brown's email?.....probably! he he he

All I have to say.... WOW!

Will Mara make balloon animals for the next birthday party?

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
practice spelling words-- test tomorrow
practice 5's flashcards--test tomorrow

Science Fair projects were great! It was so cool to see what the kids came up with and what they learned. I will post picture tonight or tomorrow night.

See you tonight at 6:00!!

Karrie

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Practice 5’s flashcards
Practice spelling
Practice Science Fair presentation

Gilbert House:
The Gilbert house is coming to Forest Ridge tomorrow night from 6:00- 7:30. This will be a fun night full of health activities! I am going to try really hard to come too. My daughter Abby will be there too. Come see us and have a fun night out with the family!

What in the World is Going on in C3?
We are learning so many things right now!

Math—Fractions
Social studies—Oregon Trail
Science—Matter
Writing—we will be doing some journal writing with our Oregon Trail unit, and doing descriptive writing
Reading—we are reading some great books on the Oregon Trail.

Science Fair:
Students will be presenting Science Fair projects from 1:30-3:00 tomorrow. If you would like to come in and watch you are welcome to!!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Cut out multiplication flash cards, put answers on the back and study
Practice Science Fair project

We will be having a 5’s multiplication test this Friday, the 20th. Please make sure your student studies and is prepared.

The spelling test will also be on Friday.

Science Fair:

Every 4th and 5th grade student needs be ready to present their Science Fair project Feb. 19th. They will be graded on their scientific method and their speech. I sent home an extra practice sheet (where they practice three times and your grade them) because I copied them wrong the first time. Those sheets are also due to me the 19th. Please make sure your student is prepared. Presentation time will be 1:30-3:00.

State Writing Test:
We are starting the State Writing test today. Please make sure your student is here all week unless really sick. I want to give them as much time as possible to complete this.

A touchy subject:

4th graders are coming to the age where they need to make sure they bathe and use deodorant everyday. I have noticed a number of kids are starting to, for lack of a better word….. stink. I was not sure how to approach this subject, but here I am laying it on the line for all of you. I hope I did not offend.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Some kids have not completed and turned in their Oregon projects. They are Due Tuesday or they will get a ZERO!
Work on Science Fair projects

The Valentine Party was great. I am so mad at myself because I forgot my camera. I will try and do better as the year goes on. Thank you to everyone who brought goodies!!

Erika Tucker, our student teacher, will be taking more responsibility in the classroom. I will be in the room acting as an assistant for now. In a couple of weeks I will be out of the room all day, but still in the building.
If you have any questions please contact me.

Have a great weekend!!

Homework:
Read 20 min
Oregon project
Science Fair Project--- Remember that it is DUE Feb. 19th!


I will be sending home book report posters and grades today. Thursday Thoughts will also go home with messengers.

Some reminders:
Book orders are Due Tomorrow, Feb. 13th
If you signed up for Valentine treats please bring tomorrow
Book Exchange Tomorrow
Valentine Boxes
Oregon Birthday Activity due Tomorrow, Feb. 13th

Family Night:
Feb. 19th the Gilbert House is coming to Forest Ridge for a Family night. I believe the activities they will be presenting is based on Health. They will be here from 6-7:30.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Oregon Birthday activity –Due Friday

Happy Birthday Oregon Activity—Due Friday
We are getting ready to celebrate Oregon’s 150th Birthday here in C3. Please help us do this by expressing what your family loves about living in Oregon on the blue and “gold” (Oregon’s flag colors) Oregon cut out. You can simply write down your thoughts, adhere a photo of your family doing something special in Oregon, or decorate the paper with drawings, crafts, etc…We will share these Friday, February 13th so please make sure you complete this on time. I can’t wait to see what you have to share!

Valentines Day Party:
If you signed up to bring something for the party please make sure they are at school by 12:00 on Friday. Our party will be from 1:15-2:00
Yesterday a list of the class was sent home with your students. I also included a few teachers that work with us all the time. I wanted to include them as well because they do so much for us. They love getting a valentine from the kids. I have made some extras for the kids so they have enough for the adults. I will have bags for each person in my room and I will deliver them to each person. There is one person I forgot to include on my list, Mrs. Ross. She is our technology teacher. She is amazing and does some great things with the students!

Valentine boxes also need to be made in the next few days. I will not be providing any bags or boxes for students.

Book Orders:
If you are interested in ordering books from the book orders please make sure they are in Friday, February 13. I will be ordering the books later that morning. Many kids are getting excited about them!

Book Exchange:
Just a reminder that February 13 with also be our first monthly book exchange with Mr. Jorgensen’s class. If your student has a book they have already read and would like to trade it for another one this is the day! Please make sure the books are grade level appropriate. “Hop on Pop” may be too young :).

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math Sheet

Friday Party Treats:
We are running out of Friday Party treats. If you can bring a bag of candy in that would be great. Sales for Valentine candy should be coming up.

February Store:
Remember if you need to get rid of any toys or books your kids are not using, you can donate them to our store at the end of the month. Or if you want to buy treats or something for our store that would be great too! Some parents have brought in handi-snacks, juice drinks, chips, little toys, suckers, granola bars, fruit roll ups….

Book report presentations were fabulous!! I am so proud of each student!

The only homework is to read 20 minutes.

Have a great weekend!

Meet Our Student Teacher!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Handwriting
Work on book report

An Introduction:
Hello parents! My name is Erika Tucker, and I will be student teaching with Mrs. Brown for the next 10 weeks of school. I’ve had an opportunity to get to know the students of C3, and I have to say that I’m thoroughly enjoying them. They are a great group of kids.

Here’s a little bit of my background. I’m working on my Master of Arts in Education at the University of Phoenix – Oregon Campus, and I also hold a Bachelor of Business Administration from Trevecca Nazarene University. Keizer is kind of like home for me, as I spent a year at McNary before going on a year-long student exchange to Argentina through the Keizer Rotary Club.

I’m very excited for what’s in store in the next few weeks. We are beginning a science unit on the states of matter, and we will be starting a unit on the Oregon Trail right after Oregon’s birthday (also known as Valentine’s Day). Both units are filled with fun learning activities. Feel free to drop in and see what we’re up to!


Big Thank you:
The school store was a huge success!! Thank you to everyone who donated store products. The kids loved them. If you are able to donate more for our store I would be happy to take them.

Book Exchange:
We will have our first monthly book exchange Feb. 13th. If your student has a book between the 3rd and 5th grade level they don’t want any more they can bring it in and trade for another book they would like to read. If this is successful and the kids like it we will continue the exchange.

Friday Book Report Presentations:
We will be doing our book report presentations two different times on Friday. If you would like to come in and watch your child present please let me know the time that would work for you. The two times are 10:45-11:30 and 1:00-2:30. Again, email me what time works for you if you want to come watch.

accept my apology

I am going to fess up. I need to send out a huge apology to all of you (parents). This is a busy month full of projects. I did not intend for it to be so overwhelming. I looked at my calendar and was appalled at how much I have put on you. Don’t worry….my time is coming with my own kids.


Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Choir kids have math to do that was not finished in class
The reading group, Lewis and Clark need to complete their brainstorming for their Thomas Jefferson letter. They can use their book.

Health Note:
I have been encouraging kids to keep their hands washed and using Kleenex to sneeze and cough in. We wash our desks everyday. There has also been a tummy illness going around. Many kids have been going home early because of this. Make sure your student is healthy and ready to learn. Hopefully with prevention we can stay healthy and happy.

Book Orders
A reminder that book orders are due February 13th. You can order online or have your child bring in the order. If you order online our classroom earns 500 points. I can use those points to purchase books for the classroom.

Valentines Day Boxes:

It is getting close to Valentine’s Day and at Forest Ridge
we practice re-using materials for Valentine Holders. To
help promote this, students 1st-5th are encouraged to create
a valentine holder at home using only materials from something
that would be recycled or thrown away (Kindergarten
has their own activity, please ask teachers for details). For
example, an old cereal box could be decorated using old paper
or envelopes torn into squares and glued to the side. As
many materials as possible should be from used items rather
than new. Students need to bring their masterpiece to school February 11th and 12th.

Book Reports:
Book reports are this Friday. Each student is expected to have read their book, made a poster to share and present their book report this FRIDAY!

Other News:
We are about to wrap up Lewis and Clark. Ask your student what they have learned about these two explorers

Important dates:
Feb. 6 book order presentations, spelling test
Feb. 13 book exchange, valentines day party, heifer project money due, book orders due
Feb. 16 NO SCHOOL
Feb.17 Miss Tucker starts teaching the Oregon Trail
Feb. 19 Science Fair projects are due and presented

All Taken Care Of

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Division math sheet
Work on book report

The Valentine's Day Party is all taken care of! Thank you to all of the wonderful parents I have!

Today Thursday Thoughts went home and a bunch of papers I have graded. Please humor me and dont recycle right away. Look through them, maybe put a few on the fridge and enjoy. Then toss until your hearts content :0)

Have a great evening!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
handwriting
math whizz (if you have it)

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Reading sheet


Homework policy add on…
I have been noticing a number of students are not turning in their homework. From now on if they choose not to turn in their work they will need to complete it during their recess time. If the trend keeps up I am going to be seeing a lot of some students during their recess.

Please make sure to go through book orders with your students. This is a great way to build up your library at an affordable price.

Mr. Jorgensen and I thought it would be fun to have a book exchange. This is how it works. Each student who wants to participate brings a book they have read and don’t want any more (please remember the grade level we are at. No little kid books.) Then they bring it to school February 13th. Each student who brings a book can swap with another student. Instant new book to read! My plan is to just lay out all of the books and have kids walk through the room and pick a book. I just want to remind kids that once you swap a book, its not yours anymore. The book swap will be Feb. 13th. We will do it before our Valentines Day party.


Valentines day party:
If you can bring something to the party please let know. We need: cups, napkins, 2 things of juice, 26 cookies or cupcakes, one other fun snack. If you have any other ideas please let me know. I am out of ideas J.

Email me and I will update you as people tell me what they can bring.

Exciting happenings

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Finish blue math sheet

We had a special guest today. Our student teacher Erika Tucker came in to meet the kids and observe for the day. She is super nice and so excited to get started. She will start Feb. 2. For the first week she will observe and work with small groups of kids. Then she will start teaching a subject or two. Then she will move into her three weeks of teaching everything. She will be working closely with me the whole time. We will give you more information as the weeks go by.

Some exciting news!
An author will be in Silverton this Thursday! His name is Roland Smith. He wrote Peak, Elephant Run, Peak, Cryptic Hunters, Z is for Zookeeper, Zach's Lie, B is for Beaver, Thunder Cave, Jaguar, Sasquatch, The Captain's Dog and countless other books. We are currently reading The Captain’s Dog as a class. If you are interested in seeing Roland Smith he will be at Robert Frost Elementary school in Silverton, January 29th at 7pm. Go to rolandsmith.com for more info about this author.

Book orders:
I am sending home book order forms today. You now can order books from the forms on line. I am sending home a parent letter explaining how to order the books online. You can also still order them through me. Just send the filled out order form, with cash or checks made out to Scholastic book clubs.

Website for online orders:
www.scholastic.com/parentordering

class user name: mrsbrownc3
password: brownc3

Placing a credit card order online is safe. I have used this website a number of times with my credit card and have had no problems.

Important dates:
February 2- Student teacher starts
6- book reports due, speeches are presented, spelling test
13- Heifer money due, valentines party
16- NO SCHOOL
19- Science Fair Projects due and presented

Science Fair is here!!

I want to send a huge thank you to every one who has brought in stuff for our store at the end of the month. One mom has really gone above and beyond! Thank you so much!

I am sending home science fair materials today. If you have any questions please let me know. I will go over everything with the kids today. I also sent yellow poster board for the kids to use.


I am also sending home materials regarding the Heifer project Forest Ridge does every year. The papers sent home explain everything. If you have any questions please let me know.

Homework:
Read 40 minutes
Finish math sheet from class
Work on book report
Figure out what to do for Science Fair

Crazy Times

It has been a crazy couple of days. My daughter has had a double ear infection, my husband and I have been sick, and yesterday I had to take Abby back to the Dr. because the antibiotics they gave her for the ear infection was not working. I think things are heading in a better direction! Your students were great for the substitutes! It’s always great to know that I can leave them with another teacher and know things are going well.

Tomorrow I will be sending home science fair information. Every 4th and 5th grader is required to participate. This will be a fun way to learn about science as a family. When you get the information please let me know if you have any questions.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Read Scholastic News complete page 8

Homework:
Read 40 minutes
finish reading work from class
work on book report

I will be sending home Science Fair information next week. All 4th and 5 grades will be participating in the fair. If you want to get a head on this google "science fair" or "science projects" I will be talking to the kids about this next week. We have not talked about it yet.

Have a great weekend!

Half day

Yesterday seemed to go really well. The kids really liked the Substitute. I am taking a half day today. Now I am sick. I am hoping tomorrow I feel better and can survive the whole day. We are finishing up our state math tests and will be starting our state reading test next Tuesday.

important dates:
Jan. 15th Choir concert
Jan. 19th No School MLK day
Jan. 23rd No School-Teacher In service
Feb. 6th Book Reports due

I will also be sending home Science Fair information soon. Keep a look out. I will put it in my blog when I do.

It sounds like students are starting to finish up reading the books for the book report. Keep up the great work!

I also wanted to let you know that I am hosting a student teacher from Feb. 2- April 17th. There will be a time when she will be teaching the class without me for three weeks. I will be in the building to help when needed. This is such a great experience for me, the student teacher and the class. I will send out more information as I get it.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
math sheet-- no calculator!

Gone Wednesday

I will not be at school Wednesday. My baby is sick so I am going to take care of her. Here is the homework for today and Wednesday.

Homework, Tuesday:
Read 20 min.
reading sheet
math sheet--calculators ok

HOmework, Wednesday:
Read 20
handwriting sheet
multiplication sheet--no calculators!

Zombie Teacher

I hope everyone had a great weekend. We were very busy. Saturday I was in a wedding and yesterday my little girl was sick. I have been running on only 3 hours sleep today. However, being a space cadet and a klutz is really nothing new for me. So the kids had know clue :).

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Graphing math sheet. I told the kids to do their best. If its too hard just write me a note.

Please have students turn in their book report slips at the bottom of the parent letter.

Have a great night!

Book Reports

DATE: January 9th, 2009

TO: PARENTS
FROM: Mrs. Brown
RE: ANIMAL BOOK ORAL REPORT

YOUR CHILD HAS SELECTED AN ANIMAL BOOK THIS WEEK. ATTACHED PLEASE FIND THE ORAL BOOK REPORT FORM TO GUIDE YOUR CHILD THROUGH THIS BOOK REPORT SPEECH. IN AN ANIMAL BOOK, THE MAIN CHARACTER IS AN ANIMAL THAT MAY ACT LIKE A PERSON OR PERFORM SOME AMAZING DEEDS. YOUR CHILD CAN LOOK FOR SUCH TRAITS WHILE READING.

A goal for all the students this year is to learn to give oral reports WITHOUT the aide of the written report. . . that’s right, MEMORIZATION. This is our second book report this year, I expect that many children will have it memorized, however even the President of the United States needs some help. Note cards are recommended for a reference for the students. I DO hope that they will use their note cards as a GUIDE for their speaking and not just read straight from it. Delivery skills including making eye contact with the audience will be stressed.

PLEASE DISCUSS A REASONABLE TIME-LINE WITH YOUR CHILD TO FINISH THE AMIMAL BOOK, PREPARE THE ORAL BOOK REPORT, AND PRACTICE THE SPEECH SEVERAL TIMES.
THE DUE DATE IS BELOW. PLEASE RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION OF THIS SLIP WITH YOUR SIGNATURE.

A FINAL OBSERVATION: THE STUDENTS THAT ARE MOST COMFORTABLE AND PREPARED FOR THEIR SPEECHES ARE THE ONES WHOSE PARENTS LISTENED TO THEM PRACTICE AND ENCOURAGED THEM TO DO THEIR BEST.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!
YOU ARE THE BEST!

Animal Book Report Poster

After students have read their book, and prepared their speech, the next step is to create a poster to go along with the book. They pretty much have free choice of what they want to do. They could draw and describe the setting of their book. Draw and describe their favorite scene from the book, or character. Be creative and enjoy! * Please make sure the title and author of the book is included.



Animal Oral Book Report
Grading Sheet for: _________________________

Due Date: ____________ Today’s Date: ____________


____ Book title is read and book is displayed: ___________________________________

____ Author and Illustrator are identified.

____ The setting is described with details and the time the story takes place is identified.

____ Several main characters are identified with details about each one.

____ The animal is identified: ___________________________ with a detailed description.

____ Human qualities are identified: ____________________________________________________

____ Normal animal qualities are identified: ______________________________________________

____ The big problem needed to be solved in this book is identified with details.

____ Funny/Naughty/Brave or __________________________ actions are identified.

____ Poster is colorful and neatly done, using the entire poster paper.

____The details of the favorite part are explained and clearly match the poster.

____ Detailed recommendation is given.

____ Possible locations of the book are given.

____ Student used a clear, loud voice that could be heard in the back of the room.

____ Student was prepared for the oral book report. He/she had obviously practiced giving it aloud several times because there were very few mistakes, hardly any pauses with “ums” or “uhs”, and the student did not lose his/her place during the report.


FINAL GRADE: 4 = skilled and confident in oral presentations 1 = late or incomplete written
3 = most of the skills mastered, needs practice on others report, no oral report prepared
2 = incomplete report, still uncomfortable speaking aloud 0 = no book report was prepared
*State of Oregon scoring guides identify 3 as passing. It translates to a 4 on report cards.

COMMENTS:

Important News

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math Sheet
Scholastic weekly---read through it and complete pg 8

Planners and homework folders:

It is very important for students to keep track of their planners and folders. We do not have any more planners to replace lost ones. If your child looses a planner then they need to make their own, or I believe office supply stores should have some. They will be different, but it will allow students to stay organized.
Students will have similar planners next year as well.

The yellow homework folders are beginning to fall apart. If your student needs a new one I have a few I can give out. You can find yellow folders at Wal-Mart, Target…. I would like them to be plain yellow because it’s easy for me to tell it’s their homework folder.

Very busy:

This week has been pretty interesting. Hopefully you will get your parent Christmas gifts before Valentines day J. We are still working on them. Its been hard to fit them in because we are playing catch up. I love the snow, but it sure puts a cramp in things J.

Subject Areas:
This month in Social Studies we are going to be studying Lewis and Clark.
In Science we will be covering the water cycle.

A Big Thank you:
I have to give thanks for two things. First of all thank you to families who have donated things to our store. I am so excited for this. The kids are too!

Also….Today I was in line at Star Bucks and the person in front of me paid for my coffee! If it was one of you thank you so much! It made my whole day.

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Handwriting

Another great day!

Homework:

Read 20 minutes
Math sheets from class
Reading sheet

Math Whizz:
Attention parents who have student with Math Whizz. I am sending home a usage and improvement sheet with your student. Its an updated sheet I gave you at conferences. Make sure students are using Math Whizz at home. I only have a small chunk of time during the school week.

Happy New Year!

A lot of stuff!
What a crazy time of year it has been! I hope all of you enjoyed the holidays and did not go too crazy with the kids home an extra week. I love January because it’s the time of year we can all start fresh! I get that same feeling in September too! I know….its a teacher thing. Here is a ton for you to read. I hope you don’t fall asleep while doing it.

Homework is starting up again! Please make sure students have their planners and folders when they come home, and they need to bring them back everyday.

Homework for January 5th, 2009
Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Language arts

Something New:

I am going to try something new for the rest of the year. I have fake Ms. Hughes (my maiden name) money. Students will be able to earn this money by turning in homework, behavior in class and class jobs.
I want this to be a real world learning experience for them. They will need to pay rent for the space they live (their desks) and will be fined for inappropriate behavior. I am going to set up a banking system so they can learn to plan ahead and save money. This will be a topic of many discussions. I am sure regulations will be added to this. I did this with my first class at Lake Labish and it really got them thinking about how money works, what their parents have to deal with each month and so on. It was a great thing! I am hoping that kids will understand if they don’t perform and do their jobs then they will not get paid. At the end of each month I will have a store for the kids. This is where your help is needed. If you have any old toys, or games or books…..and you want to get rid of them, send them my way. I can sell those things at the store. If you would like to buy snacks or anything for me to sell that would be great as well. Here are some suggestions for snacks if you need them: Capri suns, individual bags of chips, candy, or anything you think is good. If you want you can check with me if you have a question. School supplies would also be good. I am going to go to the dollar tree and see what they have. Student will be able to but 2 things each. I know I ask a lot from you guys, but with out you I could not do it! I really appreciate all of your help and the willingness you all have! I think this will be really fun for the kids.

Homework is one way they can earn money. For everyday they bring their homework back they will earn $5.00. They can earn $25.00 a week on homework.


Fun January Events to do with the kids!

HOME DEPOT KIDS WORKSHOP
Sat. January 3rd 9-12 Free "Helmet Bookends"
Ages 5-12 503-587-7130

LOWES BUILD AND GROW
Sat. January 10th 10-11am "Build Your own Time Capsule" Free Register @Lowes.com

ALS GARDEN KIDS CLUB
Sat. January 3rd 11:00am Kids will plant a cactus and talk about they survive in dry conditions. Woodburn $5 (503)981-1245

MICHAELS KIDS CLUB
Sat. January 3rd 10-12am Create your own "CD Rack" $3

Sat. January 31st Free Family Event...'Valentine Card Making' 10-1


LANCASTER MALL KIDS CLUB
Thursday, January 8th 6-7pm Colored Sand Picture Frames

Saturday January 24th "Radio Disney" 1-3pm Live entertainment, games, prizes (Outside Sports Authority)

NORTHERN LIGHTS THEATRE
Sat.January 10th Double Play Saturday Doors open 11:45
Play: Mime Loud and Clear Movie: High School Musical 3
$10 per person includes....play, movie, pizza, drink and candy!

MISSION MILL
Sat. January 10th Family Fun Saturday..'Make your own Journal' modeled after one from the 1840's 11-1 free

YMCA FAMILY NIGHT
Tuesday Jan. 13th 5:30-7:30 Pirates!! Bring your Mateys!!
Dinner, Crafts, Door prizes....$3 Adult $2 Child Call 399-2796


GILBERT HOUSE
Monday January 19th 11-2
Visit six countries in one day..Multi-cultural Celebration! Games, crafts, hands on activities!

SALEM LIBRARY
Friday, Jan. 23rd No School! Come watch Wall-e at Loucks Lecture Hall 2pm

Friday January 30th THE GREAT LIBRARY CAMP IN !!! (Bring your sleeping bags, pillows and footy pajamas =)

"Let Your Imagination Soar" is this years theme! There will be an evening full of crafts, activities, and a bedtime story by a professional storyteller! Just PLEDGE to turn your TV OFF from Jan 25th-31st!! YES...YOU CAN ALL DO THIS!! Be a role model for your children=) Turn in pledge forms by Jan 25th or call the Library at 588-6088

HAPPY 2009 ALL!!!

Homework:

Read 20 minutes
Math sheet
Study spelling words Test Tomorrow!
Social Studies if not completed in class


Homework Folders:
I am running low on new homework folders. If your student has a tore up homework folder that looks like it has been through a war please buy them a new one. Please make sure it is plain yellow. It’s easy for me to see and notice. Thank you!

Check Backpacks! Today Thursday Thoughts come home, and a bunch of corrected papers are coming home!

Just Right Books!
Winter break is just around the corner and reading is going to be essential. Please remember to encourage your student to choose a Just Right Book. First they read the summary of the book to see if they are interested in the book. Then they read the first or second page. If they miss 4-5 words on that page the book is too hard. Time to pick another book.

Here is a great website I refer to when I want to know the grade level of a book. You will see a number that looks something like this, 4.3. That means 4th grade 3rd month.

http://home.comcast.net/~ngiansante/

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Handwriting sheet
Spelling
Reading class work if not done in class.

I have noticed that many students are making careless mistakes on their homework. Please make sure directions are read and followed.

Canned Food Drive:
Don’t forget to bring in cans for the canned food drive. We have been holding steady at about 65 cans. Let’s see if we can get to 75!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math subtraction sheet
Reading sheet

There will be a spelling test this Friday, Dec. 12th

Homework:
Read 20 minutes—Finish the reading from class
Math sheet
Language arts sheet—nouns
Finish Christmas senses story, with picture completed (only kids who did not finish in class)

Important Dates:
Dec. 9th- Band and Orchestra concert
Dec. 12th- 4s test
Dec.19-School Sing along 10:15am

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Math Whizz (if you have it)

Have a great weekend!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Multiplication math sheet


Food Drive:
This class has been so generous with bringing food for the food drive. You can also donate toilet paper, toothpaste, shampoo….
As a class we set a goal of bringing in a total of 54 items. The class has gone beyond the goal with a whopping 57 items! Keep up the great work!

Math Whizz:
Math Whizz applications are due tomorrow Friday Dec. 5th.

A Lot of Information

Thank you so much for the puzzle pieces and the wrapping paper! You are a group of parents who pulls through! Thank you again!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Reading sheet
Study math flashcards


Forest Ridge is conducting a canned food drive. C3 has set a goal for each of us to bring in 2 non-perishable items. If you can donate great! If not, no worries.

I have another way to give this season. It’s not school related. My church sponsors an orphanage in El Proviner, Mexico. I have gone to Mexico for a number of years to help out another orphanage there. This particular orphanage is the only one within 300 miles who accepts special needs kids. We are doing a penny drive to raise money for this orphanage. I thought this would be a great way for C3 kids to help kids without the same luxuries they have. I have a ton of pictures from the schools and orphanage I went to that I am going to share with the kids. If they would like to donate a few pennies or change great, again if not no big deal. This is strictly voluntary.

School Supplies:
Its that time of year! Pencils are shrinking, and erasers are worn out. Please double check with your student and make sure they have the necessary supplies for the school day. There are a couple of students who need scissors and glue.

Fun December events:
Dec. 2nd Keizer Tree Lighting 6pm Cider, cookies, and caroling

Dec. 4th Lancaster Mall "Kids Club" 6-7pm Kids will decorate their own canvas pillowcase with a slot for a 4x6 photo
SATURDAY,DECEMBER 6th

Willamette Queen Stern wheeler Toy Drive
Free one hour excursion 1:30-2:30 with 2 cans of food or new toy. Sip cocoa while floating down the river....

Volcanoes Stadium Santa arrives by Helicopter at 11:00am Free E-photos and candy canes 11-3

Elsinore Theatre Holiday Party for the Kids 10am Free
Watch 'Kung-Fu Panda' meet Santa, sing songs and receive a bag of holiday goodies 375-3574

Riverfront Park Tree Lighting 5 pm Cocoa, cookies and music.

Michaels Kids Club 10-2 $5 Santa's Workshop
All children will make gifts and wrap them as well!

Home Depot Kids Workshop Free 9-12 Art Easel

Ongoing....

Als Garden Center
Mrs.Clause and elves read holiday stories to the kids 10:30 am Dec. 6th, 13th, and 20th

Salem Public Library Winter Break Programs must be registered 588-6088 *Gift Making 12/23
*For the Birds Story&Craft 12/30
* Lego Building Contest 12/31
West Salem Branch *Holiday Book Bingo w/prizes 12/29

Riverfront Carousel
Breakfast with Santa 8-9:30am Dec. 13, 20, 22, 24
$20 per person Includes ride, visit from Santa, breakfast, photo, and a special gift from Santa

Free Rides Christmas and New Years Day 12-4 with can food donation

YMCA Family Night Dec. 10th 5:30-7:30 'Winter Wonderland' dinner, crafts and door prizes $3 adult $2 kid 399-2796

Bullwinkle's Family Night Friday, Dec. 12th 5-9 pm Includes unlimited go karts, lazer tag, mini golf, bumper boats batting cages and playland.
(Also happens on Dec. 31st) $20 per person

Northern Lights Theatre Double Play Saturday Dec. 13th doors open 11:45am $10 per person includes movie, play, pizza, drink and snack. Play: Busy Christmas Eve with Santa visiting Movie: TBA

Lowes Sat. Dec. 13th 10am Build your own Gingerbread House Free

Mission Mill Dec. 13th Family Fun Saturday Free 11-1 Holiday Stories

Winterfest at Oregon Garden Dec 13th 11-1 $5 wreath making, cookie decorating, and other crafts 874-8100

Silver Falls Christmas Festival Dec. 13th,14th11-4 $3 per vehicle wreath making, stories, gingerbread houses, ornaments and cards. JR Beaver and Santa visiting South Falls Lodge

Festival of Lights Holiday Parade Downtown Salem Dec. 13th 6:30 pm

If you go to the 'Miracle of Christmas' light display in the Gubser neighborhood, Pack 12 scouts will be out taking your donations on Dec. 14th...make sure to stop by!

Homework:
Read 20 minutes
Proof reading worksheet
Write spelling words 5 times each
3’s math worksheet
Finish cell pictures, finish any reading that needs to be done (not all kids have this)

Art projects:
I have some art ideas for the class this month. I would like to start one of them tomorrow. If you have any wrapping paper you don’t need we could use it for our project. I have some, but its nice to have a variety.

Math Whizz:
Please allow time for students to play on Math Whizz. Its so beneficial to them! Also if you are interested in signing up for Math Whizz, have forms in by the 5th of December.

Field trip:
December 3rd is out field trip to the Elsinore to see James and the Giant Peach. We will leave at 11:30. We will have lunch at 11:00 that day. No need to bring a special lunch.