I hope everyone had a delicious Thanksgiving! It is hard to believe but we only have 3 weeks before Winter break! Due to a field trip, benchmark testing, and other planned activities at school, our normal Friday tests will change to other days. Please check your child's planner to know when the tests will be given.
Reading
This week our focus will be author's viewpoint. Students will be able to explain how the author feels or thinks about the subject they are writing about. Students will need to infer the author's viewpoint from facts and opinions that are stated in the text. Due to Monday's field trip and up coming benchmark testing I will be postponing tests on vocabulary (pg 260 in textbook), spelling and the selection story until Wednesday of next week.
Language
We have finished the narrative writing standard and will be moving on to the informational standard. In connection with our school theme, Traveling the World in 180 days", students will be studying and learning about the state of Virginia. This will be a class report that will be presented at our USA Tour on December 16 at 6:30p.m.
This week we will also be studying subject verb agreement and regular and irregular verbs.
Spelling
Our spelling focus for this week are words with a final "er" sound spelled with er, or, ar. Look for a focused list in the planner.
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Time Has Flown!
We have been very busy this first quarter! We are now already soon going to be in midterm of the second quarter. Students are settling in to the rituals and routines of the classroom well. With the holidays fast approaching our schedule will try to stay as normal as possible but look for test reminders in the planners as we will have short weeks and days off November through January.
Reading
We are wrapping up the second theme in our reading series. You should have received a nine weeks overview for the curriculum for the second nine weeks in the report card envelope.
Language
We just finished the narrative standard or story writing. Students were to turn in a published story for a language grade this past Friday. We will be moving to report writing when we come back from the Thanksgiving holiday. We will be writing about the state of Virginia as part of our travel theme throughout the school. Mark your calendars for the United States Tour on December 16 to come and see what our students have learned about the fifty states.
Up Coming Dates
November 23 Sports Fest
November 24-26 Thanksgiving Break
November 29 Marine Science Field Trip
You should see a weekly progress report coming home in the Friday Folder. Please review your child's work and sign the report and folder then return on Monday.
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Reading
We are wrapping up the second theme in our reading series. You should have received a nine weeks overview for the curriculum for the second nine weeks in the report card envelope.
Language
We just finished the narrative standard or story writing. Students were to turn in a published story for a language grade this past Friday. We will be moving to report writing when we come back from the Thanksgiving holiday. We will be writing about the state of Virginia as part of our travel theme throughout the school. Mark your calendars for the United States Tour on December 16 to come and see what our students have learned about the fifty states.
Up Coming Dates
November 23 Sports Fest
November 24-26 Thanksgiving Break
November 29 Marine Science Field Trip
You should see a weekly progress report coming home in the Friday Folder. Please review your child's work and sign the report and folder then return on Monday.
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Weekly Updates September 27
We have had a week of WOW! Our quail have hatched over the past two weeks and it has been quite exciting. If you would like to see them come out to our Science Night Tuesday from 6:00-7:00 p.m. There will be many experiments and other presentations going on throughout the school with a chance to win a bike!
Reading
This week our reading focus is categorize and classify. Students will use the story Volcanoes this week as the selection to practice their skill and strategies. Students also continue to have a reading log that should be completed as part of their reading grade.
Students also have a list of vocabulary words that can be found in their textbook one page prior to the weekly story. There is a weekly test that is also part of their reading grade.
Language
This week's phonics focus is long o and long u vowel patterns. We will also begin reviewing basic sentence structure. For example complete thought, capital letter at the beginning punctuation. Students will be editing incorrect sentences looking for mistakes.
A BIG THANK YOU!!!
Thanks to all the parents who have sent in snack for the classroom store! It is a huge help and GREATLY appreciated!!!!!
Final note: You should have seen a progress report come home last Thursday. Please sign and return them this week if you haven't already.
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Reading
This week our reading focus is categorize and classify. Students will use the story Volcanoes this week as the selection to practice their skill and strategies. Students also continue to have a reading log that should be completed as part of their reading grade.
Students also have a list of vocabulary words that can be found in their textbook one page prior to the weekly story. There is a weekly test that is also part of their reading grade.
Language
This week's phonics focus is long o and long u vowel patterns. We will also begin reviewing basic sentence structure. For example complete thought, capital letter at the beginning punctuation. Students will be editing incorrect sentences looking for mistakes.
A BIG THANK YOU!!!
Thanks to all the parents who have sent in snack for the classroom store! It is a huge help and GREATLY appreciated!!!!!
Final note: You should have seen a progress report come home last Thursday. Please sign and return them this week if you haven't already.
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Updates Week of September 20th
We have been extremely busy the past two week with Reading, Math and Science benchmark testing. These are assessments the students will take multiple times throughout the year to show progress as well as their strengths and weaknesses so we can better focus our small group instruction.
Students also turned in their reading logs and took their first tests for grades toward their report card last week. There were many students who did not have their reading logs complete. Please check with your child and make sure they are reading and logging in daily as this does count as a grade.
Reading Focus:
This week students will focus on text organization. We will look at different texts and determine if the author used main idea and details, sequence or cause and effect as a way to organize their text.
The weekly story is Eye of the Storm. Students will need to define and study the vocabulary words at the beginning of the story as well as read the story and answer the questions at the end. Look for homework reminders in their planner as to know which nights these activities are assigned.
Language and Spelling:
This week the Spelling focus is long vowel words and the various patterns they can have as well as syllabication.
Important dates:
Progress reports go home Thursday September 23rd
Until next time,
R.O'Steen
Students also turned in their reading logs and took their first tests for grades toward their report card last week. There were many students who did not have their reading logs complete. Please check with your child and make sure they are reading and logging in daily as this does count as a grade.
Reading Focus:
This week students will focus on text organization. We will look at different texts and determine if the author used main idea and details, sequence or cause and effect as a way to organize their text.
The weekly story is Eye of the Storm. Students will need to define and study the vocabulary words at the beginning of the story as well as read the story and answer the questions at the end. Look for homework reminders in their planner as to know which nights these activities are assigned.
Language and Spelling:
This week the Spelling focus is long vowel words and the various patterns they can have as well as syllabication.
Important dates:
Progress reports go home Thursday September 23rd
Until next time,
R.O'Steen
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Week of August 30-Sept. 3
The first week of school went very well! We spent our time on rituals and routines of the classroom and school. You should have seen two very important papers go home in their Friday folder. One addressed classroom conduct rules and consequences. Once signed and returned this paper will be stapled into the front of their planner which should be signed nightly. Students were doing an excellent job of this the first week! The second paper was a fifth grade contract that is an expectation of conduct throughout the entire fifth grade. Student behavior and responsibility is very important to a child's success in school. I look forward to a fun and educational year! Please remember if you have any questions jot me a note in your child's planner.
Reading Updates
This week we will begin reading logs. We will study the reading strategies good readers use to help understand text. Look for you child to have a chapter book they have chosen to read and log in daily. At first they may have time in the classroom to complete their logs however when we begin using the textbook they most likely will have to complete their reading log for homework. Ask your child what their book is about!
We will also begin a fun class project and read aloud for the first nine weeks. We will be reading Jeremy Thatcher Dragon Hatcher by Bruce Coville aloud in class. In connection with the book and science we will attempt to hatch quail eggs. Look for pictures to come. It will be an experiment and adventure all at the same time!
Language Updates
We have not and will not begin any grammar or phonics focus until we get into the reading textbook which will be next week. So no spelling this week.
Writing Updates
This week students will set up their writers notebook and begin narrative writing. Narrative writing is telling a story whether it is fiction or true.
Important Dates
Monday September 6......Labor Day Holiday
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Reading Updates
This week we will begin reading logs. We will study the reading strategies good readers use to help understand text. Look for you child to have a chapter book they have chosen to read and log in daily. At first they may have time in the classroom to complete their logs however when we begin using the textbook they most likely will have to complete their reading log for homework. Ask your child what their book is about!
We will also begin a fun class project and read aloud for the first nine weeks. We will be reading Jeremy Thatcher Dragon Hatcher by Bruce Coville aloud in class. In connection with the book and science we will attempt to hatch quail eggs. Look for pictures to come. It will be an experiment and adventure all at the same time!
Language Updates
We have not and will not begin any grammar or phonics focus until we get into the reading textbook which will be next week. So no spelling this week.
Writing Updates
This week students will set up their writers notebook and begin narrative writing. Narrative writing is telling a story whether it is fiction or true.
Important Dates
Monday September 6......Labor Day Holiday
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Welcome!
I was so happy to meet all the parents and students that came on Friday! I am very excited about this year and I hope you are too! On this blog I will give weekly updates for Reading and Language along with any upcoming events and important dates to remember.
Reading and Language
This week we will focus on the rituals and routines of the classroom. By fifth grade most students know the basics of what is expected but we will focus on specifics in the classroom along with the expectations for each subject.
We will be doing lessons and activities in the classroom to get the students familiar with the reader's and writer's workshop model along with baseline assessments in reading and writing over the next two to three weeks.
Communication
Students will receive a planner that will be used daily to write down reminders, homework and upcoming events. The planner will also be the way I will communicate any problems or concerns that I have and the way you can ask any questions you have. The planner needs to be signed nightly and I will check it each morning.
Supplies
A supply list has been sent home with all the necessary supplies your child will need for my class. We will be setting up notebooks and folders this week. If you didn't get a supply list here it is:
*2 2" binders
*3 8 pack dividers
*1 package of erasable pens
*1 package small index cards
*1 spiral notebook
*1 pocket folder with prongs
*1 package post-it notes
*1 package notebook paper
*1 package cap erasers
*1 ream copy paper
Wish list:
*tissues
*soft soap
*oil plug in air fresheners
Important Reminders
First day of school Monday August 23rd-8:30-3:00
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Reading and Language
This week we will focus on the rituals and routines of the classroom. By fifth grade most students know the basics of what is expected but we will focus on specifics in the classroom along with the expectations for each subject.
We will be doing lessons and activities in the classroom to get the students familiar with the reader's and writer's workshop model along with baseline assessments in reading and writing over the next two to three weeks.
Communication
Students will receive a planner that will be used daily to write down reminders, homework and upcoming events. The planner will also be the way I will communicate any problems or concerns that I have and the way you can ask any questions you have. The planner needs to be signed nightly and I will check it each morning.
Supplies
A supply list has been sent home with all the necessary supplies your child will need for my class. We will be setting up notebooks and folders this week. If you didn't get a supply list here it is:
*2 2" binders
*3 8 pack dividers
*1 package of erasable pens
*1 package small index cards
*1 spiral notebook
*1 pocket folder with prongs
*1 package post-it notes
*1 package notebook paper
*1 package cap erasers
*1 ream copy paper
Wish list:
*tissues
*soft soap
*oil plug in air fresheners
Important Reminders
First day of school Monday August 23rd-8:30-3:00
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Friday, June 25, 2010
Summer Reading!!!!
One of the things you will hear me say time and time again is....
To become a better reader you must...READ!!!!
Well Duval County has put some WONDERFUL activities for the summer on their website to help students keep their reading skills sharp during their break. Go to duvalschools.org and click on Summer Packets and Reading lists link, then click on intermediate and you will find a very focused guide for summer reading.
Also the last page is a summer reading list log. Be sure to print it out, keep track of your reading and bring it to school for summer reading credit toward your reading habits grade!!!!
I am starting a book to read this summer I hope you will too!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
To become a better reader you must...READ!!!!
Well Duval County has put some WONDERFUL activities for the summer on their website to help students keep their reading skills sharp during their break. Go to duvalschools.org and click on Summer Packets and Reading lists link, then click on intermediate and you will find a very focused guide for summer reading.
Also the last page is a summer reading list log. Be sure to print it out, keep track of your reading and bring it to school for summer reading credit toward your reading habits grade!!!!
I am starting a book to read this summer I hope you will too!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Thursday, June 17, 2010
End of Year!
Well, wow... somewhere the time flew....
It is now summer and I would like to say I have enjoyed teaching all my students this year...it truly was a GREAT class!
Hope everyone has a safe and fun summer...keep reading everyday and see ya next year!
Until next time,
Mrs. O'Steen
It is now summer and I would like to say I have enjoyed teaching all my students this year...it truly was a GREAT class!
Hope everyone has a safe and fun summer...keep reading everyday and see ya next year!
Until next time,
Mrs. O'Steen
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Reading Updates for March 8-12, 2010
This week students will take the FCAT in Reading and Math. I feel they are definitely ready and excited! Please remind your child to do their best each day and read everything carefully!
Here are some tips and reminders for the week:
This is the testing schedule for the week.
Monday-no test
Tuesday-reading session 1
Wednesday reading session 2
Thursday- math session 1 and 2
Friday- no test
A final note...there will not be spelling or vocabulary words or tests this week. Also the students will not have any homework..no reading log or reading practice passages during FCAT testing week.
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Here are some tips and reminders for the week:
- get a good night's sleep
- eat a good breakfast each morning
- be encouraging and remind to not worry...do your best
- be on time
This is the testing schedule for the week.
Monday-no test
Tuesday-reading session 1
Wednesday reading session 2
Thursday- math session 1 and 2
Friday- no test
A final note...there will not be spelling or vocabulary words or tests this week. Also the students will not have any homework..no reading log or reading practice passages during FCAT testing week.
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Reading Update for the week of March 1, 2010
Well one week until the FCAT!!! This week we will continue practicing reading for understanding and test taking strategies. Yesterday Mrs. Watson came and had lunch with the class and had a wonderful discussion on being prepared for the test which also applies to tests in general. Here were her main points:
1. Study
2. Exercise
3. Eat right
4. Get plenty of rest
These are all very good points! Next week we will begin testing on Tuesday and will continue through Thursday. Students may bring in a snack for after testing each day (Tuesday through Thursday)
Please continue to monitor and read with you child every night! This week's practice is the 2006 FCAT released test from the state. It will give you a peek into the expectations of the test they will take next week.
Important Dates
Wednesday Early Dismissal......March 3
Spirit Week................................March 1-5
FCAT testing..............................March 9-11
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
1. Study
2. Exercise
3. Eat right
4. Get plenty of rest
These are all very good points! Next week we will begin testing on Tuesday and will continue through Thursday. Students may bring in a snack for after testing each day (Tuesday through Thursday)
Please continue to monitor and read with you child every night! This week's practice is the 2006 FCAT released test from the state. It will give you a peek into the expectations of the test they will take next week.
Important Dates
Wednesday Early Dismissal......March 3
Spirit Week................................March 1-5
FCAT testing..............................March 9-11
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Reading Update February 22-26, 2010
Reading Updates
We now have two week before the FCAT Reading and Math tests. We will continue to review on all skills taught throughout the year and focus on FCAT type reading passages and questions. You will not see a reading log going home for the next three weeks. This week and next students will have FCAT practice reading passages to read and practice for homework. We will check and discuss them in class the following day.
You will also not see any vocabulary or spelling words over the next few weeks due to FCAT review.
Language Updates
In Writers Workshop we have started on a book publishing project. This will be about a four week long project that will count toward the student's Language grade for the third nine weeks. Ask you child what they are writing their book about.
Important Dates
Progress reports went home on February 22
FCAT begin March 9th
Until next time,
R.O'Steen
We now have two week before the FCAT Reading and Math tests. We will continue to review on all skills taught throughout the year and focus on FCAT type reading passages and questions. You will not see a reading log going home for the next three weeks. This week and next students will have FCAT practice reading passages to read and practice for homework. We will check and discuss them in class the following day.
You will also not see any vocabulary or spelling words over the next few weeks due to FCAT review.
Language Updates
In Writers Workshop we have started on a book publishing project. This will be about a four week long project that will count toward the student's Language grade for the third nine weeks. Ask you child what they are writing their book about.
Important Dates
Progress reports went home on February 22
FCAT begin March 9th
Until next time,
R.O'Steen
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Reading Week of January 25
This week begins the start of the 3rd nine weeks. Students will continue to read and log in, use their textbooks for their weekly reading vocabulary and skill focus. This week we will be wrapping up the 3rd theme in the textbook. Students will have their spelling, vocabulary, skill and selection test on Wednesday this week and then take their big Theme test on Friday.
Next week I will collect this first reading textbook and students will be issued the second reading textbook. It follows the same pattern; vocabulary, story and weekly skill focus.
We are drawing near to the FCAT which begins early March. Please make sure your child is reading nightly to build their vocabulary, fluency and stamina for this very important test.
Thanks for all your support!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Next week I will collect this first reading textbook and students will be issued the second reading textbook. It follows the same pattern; vocabulary, story and weekly skill focus.
We are drawing near to the FCAT which begins early March. Please make sure your child is reading nightly to build their vocabulary, fluency and stamina for this very important test.
Thanks for all your support!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Reading Week of January 18
We are wrapping up the end of the 2nd nine weeks. Can you believe it??? This week we will begin our reading, spelling and vocabulary focus but won't have tests until next week, Wednesday, January 27 due to the short week.
Reading
This week's story is The Garden of Abdul Gasazi. Students will be focused on story structure. Story structure is identifying the characters, setting and plot (problem and solution) of a story.
Students should be reading the weekly textbook selection at least 3 times throughout the week as these are solid third grade level texts.
Students should also be studying vocabulary words that are in the textbook one page before the weekly story.
Writing
We have now finished the informational standard and students should have turned in their report that we were working on in class. If they weren't finished in the class time allowed they were assigned to take it home to finish it. Ask you child what they learned about in their report.
Spelling
This week the spelling focus is homophones. Students will need to know the meaning of the words as well as the spelling to differentiate which word to write on the spelling test next week.
Important dates:
No School Friday January 22 Planning day
Tests next Wednesday January 27
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Reading
This week's story is The Garden of Abdul Gasazi. Students will be focused on story structure. Story structure is identifying the characters, setting and plot (problem and solution) of a story.
Students should be reading the weekly textbook selection at least 3 times throughout the week as these are solid third grade level texts.
Students should also be studying vocabulary words that are in the textbook one page before the weekly story.
Writing
We have now finished the informational standard and students should have turned in their report that we were working on in class. If they weren't finished in the class time allowed they were assigned to take it home to finish it. Ask you child what they learned about in their report.
Spelling
This week the spelling focus is homophones. Students will need to know the meaning of the words as well as the spelling to differentiate which word to write on the spelling test next week.
Important dates:
No School Friday January 22 Planning day
Tests next Wednesday January 27
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
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