We have officially closed the first nine weeks. We are moving right along with our studies in Math and Science. Students may need to refresh some supplies like pencils and paper as we move into the new nine weeks. Students also are now familiar with the classroom routines and classwork/homework expectations. I taught, and retaught many classroom and conduct rituals and routines without academic consequence, however I have let the students know that I am now holding them accountable for their conduct and missing work or lack of effort put into their work. I had many discussions and handed back many papers to be redone the first nine weeks. The second nine weeks I am expecting students to follow the expectations of the school and classroom.
Math
We are in Module 3 of Duval Math. Students have worked on multiplication and we have now moved into division. The standard algorithm is not part of the fourth grade standards, however students will be introduced to it but not assessed on it. They will need to know other ways to solve problems such as: using an array, area model, partial products, place value chart. This is all leading up to their understanding why the algorithm works. Students need a firm working memory of their multiplication facts. Please review them nightly.
Science
We are going to be finishing up our study of Matter. Students should have turned in their last journal to me until they turn in their completed Science Fair project. The project is due Monday or Tuesday, November 23 and 24th. The Dollar Tree has the backboards for just $1. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.
Dates to Remember
Tuesday, November 10....................................Veteran's Day Assembly
Wednesday, November 11................................No School-Holiday
Monday-Tuesday, November 23-24.................Science Fair Projects due
Wednesday-Monday, November 25-30............No School-Thanksgiving Holiday
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Monday, November 2, 2015
Monday, October 26, 2015
Updates Week of October 26-30, 2015
Here we are....the end of the first nine weeks already. Very hard to believe. We have completed studies in place value, rounding, comparing numbers, metric measurement and multiplication so far in Math and the practice of science and matter in Science. We will continue with weekly math practice page and the science fair for the second nine weeks for homework.
Math
We will take the mid-module 3 test today and move on to division the rest of the week. Students will begin with using place value and representational ways to understand division then move on to the algorithm. Students really need to know their multiplication facts. I am finding students still counting on fingers, skip counting or making errors when using algorithms to find answers. The problem with this is everything from classroom practice to tests, especially the FSA, are timed. Having to figure out multiplication facts take too much of that time. Plus in order to be successful at division students must know multiplication. Students need to still drill and practice these facts at home.
Science
We will be finishing up our chapter on Matter this week and test next week. Students should be working on their Science Fair project by this point. They were to turn in their hypothesis last week. Very few turned it in and many that did, did not have it written correctly. The hypothesis should be written as an "If....then....because..."statement. I will be sending a note home in the planner to students who are behind in their science fair project. There is still plenty of time. It is not due until November 23.
Important dates to remember
Red Ribbon Week...................................October 26-29
End of nine weeks...................................October 26
Character Parade.....................................October 29
Planning day-No School.........................October 30
Veteran's Day Assembly..........................November 10
Veteran's Day-No School........................November 11
Thanksgiving Holiday.............................November 25-30
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
We will take the mid-module 3 test today and move on to division the rest of the week. Students will begin with using place value and representational ways to understand division then move on to the algorithm. Students really need to know their multiplication facts. I am finding students still counting on fingers, skip counting or making errors when using algorithms to find answers. The problem with this is everything from classroom practice to tests, especially the FSA, are timed. Having to figure out multiplication facts take too much of that time. Plus in order to be successful at division students must know multiplication. Students need to still drill and practice these facts at home.
Science
We will be finishing up our chapter on Matter this week and test next week. Students should be working on their Science Fair project by this point. They were to turn in their hypothesis last week. Very few turned it in and many that did, did not have it written correctly. The hypothesis should be written as an "If....then....because..."statement. I will be sending a note home in the planner to students who are behind in their science fair project. There is still plenty of time. It is not due until November 23.
Important dates to remember
Red Ribbon Week...................................October 26-29
End of nine weeks...................................October 26
Character Parade.....................................October 29
Planning day-No School.........................October 30
Veteran's Day Assembly..........................November 10
Veteran's Day-No School........................November 11
Thanksgiving Holiday.............................November 25-30
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Updates Week of October 19-23, 2015
We are rapidly coming up on the end of the first nine weeks...already!! It is hard to believe. Students are doing a fine job in the classroom and I am very proud of them!! Thank you to all who have participated in the new fundraiser. If you haven't seen it yet, ask your child about the envelope they received last week. It is a real simple one this time. Everything is online :)
Math
We have completed Module 2 on metric measurements and conversions. Students did very well on the end of module test. We have moved on to Module 3 which will cover area, perimeter, multiplication and division. It is a much longer module. Students will need to review and practice their multiplication facts. Even if they knew them well last year, some have forgotten them. Flashcards are great, however practicing in the form of division will help students when we work with area and word problems that require missing factors or division. For example, practicing 7 X 8 = 56 is good but practicing 7 X ___ = 56 is better. Look for a study guide this weekend coming up with a mid-module test on Monday, October 26.
Science
We have completed Chapter 1 on the Practice of Science. Students did very well on the Chapter 1 test. We have moved on to Chapter 2 on Matter. You should see new vocabulary words and pages to complete coming home. Students should also be working on their science project. I have collected the journal now twice. They will turn it in this week with their hypothesis for their project. The complete project is due November 23.
Dates to Remember
Wednesday, October 21...........................Early dismissal
Friday, October 23...................................Science journal due
Monday, October 26................................Mid-module 2 test and End of 1st nine weeks
Monday, October 26................................Begins Red Ribbon Week-Crazy socks day
Tuesday, October 27................................Wear red to school
Wednesday, October 28...........................Team shirt day
Thursday, October 29...............................Character Day Parade
Friday, October 30....................................Planning Day, No School
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
We have completed Module 2 on metric measurements and conversions. Students did very well on the end of module test. We have moved on to Module 3 which will cover area, perimeter, multiplication and division. It is a much longer module. Students will need to review and practice their multiplication facts. Even if they knew them well last year, some have forgotten them. Flashcards are great, however practicing in the form of division will help students when we work with area and word problems that require missing factors or division. For example, practicing 7 X 8 = 56 is good but practicing 7 X ___ = 56 is better. Look for a study guide this weekend coming up with a mid-module test on Monday, October 26.
Science
We have completed Chapter 1 on the Practice of Science. Students did very well on the Chapter 1 test. We have moved on to Chapter 2 on Matter. You should see new vocabulary words and pages to complete coming home. Students should also be working on their science project. I have collected the journal now twice. They will turn it in this week with their hypothesis for their project. The complete project is due November 23.
Dates to Remember
Wednesday, October 21...........................Early dismissal
Friday, October 23...................................Science journal due
Monday, October 26................................Mid-module 2 test and End of 1st nine weeks
Monday, October 26................................Begins Red Ribbon Week-Crazy socks day
Tuesday, October 27................................Wear red to school
Wednesday, October 28...........................Team shirt day
Thursday, October 29...............................Character Day Parade
Friday, October 30....................................Planning Day, No School
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, October 11, 2015
Updates Week of October 2-16, 2015
You can feel fall in the air! It is such a beautiful time of year. It is hard to believe the first nine weeks will be over in only 2 weeks!! We are moving right along with our math and science curriculum. You should have seen a Science Fair folder at home and students should have already decided what they are going to do for their project. If there are any questions please make notes in the folder and I will help the best I can :)
Math
We have completed Module 1 on place value, rounding, and the addition and subtraction algorithm. We have moved on to the second Module which covers the metric system. Students have been converting metric units and then using the addition or subtraction algorithm to solve word problems. We will have a test this Tuesday, October 13th. The county has not provided any time in the curriculum guide to remediate this module so students will not have time to study a study guide. I will be sending one home anyway Monday, October 12. Beginning Wednesday, October 14 we will begin Module 3 which will cover multiplication and division. Students will need to know their facts so they should be reviewing them daily for practice at home.
Science
We have moved into chapter 2 on Matter. Students have a new set of vocabulary cards to complete and study. You will also see a new set of chapter review to complete and study coming home later in the week. Please review the timeline in the Science Fair folder for the due dates. Students who turn in their work late will have it returned late. This may make is difficult to complete the journal data collection.
Dates to Remember
End of the nine weeks......................Monday, October 26
Character parade..............................Thursday, October 29
Planning day-No school...................Friday, October 30
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
We have completed Module 1 on place value, rounding, and the addition and subtraction algorithm. We have moved on to the second Module which covers the metric system. Students have been converting metric units and then using the addition or subtraction algorithm to solve word problems. We will have a test this Tuesday, October 13th. The county has not provided any time in the curriculum guide to remediate this module so students will not have time to study a study guide. I will be sending one home anyway Monday, October 12. Beginning Wednesday, October 14 we will begin Module 3 which will cover multiplication and division. Students will need to know their facts so they should be reviewing them daily for practice at home.
Science
We have moved into chapter 2 on Matter. Students have a new set of vocabulary cards to complete and study. You will also see a new set of chapter review to complete and study coming home later in the week. Please review the timeline in the Science Fair folder for the due dates. Students who turn in their work late will have it returned late. This may make is difficult to complete the journal data collection.
Dates to Remember
End of the nine weeks......................Monday, October 26
Character parade..............................Thursday, October 29
Planning day-No school...................Friday, October 30
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Monday, September 28, 2015
Updates Week of September 28-October 2, 2015
Here we are already in the middle of the 1st nine weeks ready for the first midterm progress reports to go home. Most students are doing well at this point of the nine weeks. We have been focused on the base ten system with addition and subtraction. This is something most students are familiar with and understand well. We will be moving to measurement conversions then multiplication and division. Please continue to review and study multiplication and division facts nightly.
Math
This week we will finish Module 1 and move to Module 2 which is converting metric units based on the base ten number system. Students will take Module 1 test this week. Module 2 is very short so we will be in Module 3 quickly which is multiplication and division. Reviewing multiplication and division facts will help students with this upcoming module.
Science
We have been studying Chapter 1 The Process of Science. You should have seen a Science Fair folder come home. Students should have shared the folder and had a parent consent form signed to return as their first grade in the on going project. There is a timeline of due dates in the folder to guide students through their project. Parental support is highly encouraged and recommended throughout the project. I look forward to seeing all the fun project ideas that student come up with. The science fair journal will be turned in several times before the project for grades as well as keeping students focused on their project.
Important Dates to Remember
Progress reports go home..................................September 28
Zoo Field Trip.....................................................Oct. 1
Science parent consent form due......................Oct. 1
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
This week we will finish Module 1 and move to Module 2 which is converting metric units based on the base ten number system. Students will take Module 1 test this week. Module 2 is very short so we will be in Module 3 quickly which is multiplication and division. Reviewing multiplication and division facts will help students with this upcoming module.
Science
We have been studying Chapter 1 The Process of Science. You should have seen a Science Fair folder come home. Students should have shared the folder and had a parent consent form signed to return as their first grade in the on going project. There is a timeline of due dates in the folder to guide students through their project. Parental support is highly encouraged and recommended throughout the project. I look forward to seeing all the fun project ideas that student come up with. The science fair journal will be turned in several times before the project for grades as well as keeping students focused on their project.
Important Dates to Remember
Progress reports go home..................................September 28
Zoo Field Trip.....................................................Oct. 1
Science parent consent form due......................Oct. 1
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Friday, September 18, 2015
Week of September 21
Students have been working very hard in class for the last 4 weeks. Yes, can you believe it has already been 4 weeks since school began? This week progress reports will go home. Time sure does fly when you are having fun :) We are moving right along with Math and Science. Ask your child about what we are studying! To be able to explain something shows true understanding on their part.
Math
We have completed the first half of Module 1 in math. Students worked on using place value, comparing numbers, and rounding. We are now moving into our second half of the module which begins with not only using the standard algorithm for addition but students also need to be able to show the regrouping throughout the process. Students need to still review their multiplication facts at home to stay fluent.
Science
So far this year we have been focused on the Scientific Method. Students have been learning how scientists work to solve and answer questions. They have gone through the process in class with an apple inquiry. Ask you child what they asked about the apple they chose. All of this is leading into the students being able to complete their science fair project independently at home. Look for a science fair folder with information about their project and due dates to come home this week.
Dates to Remember
Week of Sept. 21...................................Progress reports go home
Wed. Sept. 23........................................Early dismissal
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
We have completed the first half of Module 1 in math. Students worked on using place value, comparing numbers, and rounding. We are now moving into our second half of the module which begins with not only using the standard algorithm for addition but students also need to be able to show the regrouping throughout the process. Students need to still review their multiplication facts at home to stay fluent.
Science
So far this year we have been focused on the Scientific Method. Students have been learning how scientists work to solve and answer questions. They have gone through the process in class with an apple inquiry. Ask you child what they asked about the apple they chose. All of this is leading into the students being able to complete their science fair project independently at home. Look for a science fair folder with information about their project and due dates to come home this week.
Dates to Remember
Week of Sept. 21...................................Progress reports go home
Wed. Sept. 23........................................Early dismissal
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Open House
Wow! It was wonderful to see all the parents last night at Open House!! Thank you for taking the time to come and visit our classroom and learn more about our school. If you weren't able to come look for a communication letter and Math newletter today in your child's Friday Folder!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Welcome to the New School Year!
I am glad you found our classroom website. This is where I will post upcoming information about what is happening in the classroom as well as the school. Welcome to our classroom!!
I am so happy with how well all the students have already mastered so many of the classroom routines and expectations. We are getting our baseline assessments completed and beginning the math curriculum.
Thank you to all the parents who have sent in supplies for the classroom! It is greatly appreciated and the students now have the tools they need to be successful this year.
Math
We have begun working in the new math curriculum. Students are enjoying the fluency sprints and other activities we are focusing on to enhance previous math skills. We are currently working on place value. Place value is an extremely important foundation for understand other math concepts. I also have begun sending math homework this week. Students received a math handout on Monday and it will be due on Friday. They may work at it through the week at their pace. To help your child at home, review multiplication facts for memorization. Students need to know their facts and could have forgotten some over the summer.
Science
We will begin the year with a focus on scientific practices. Students will study what scientists do such as observe, test, experiment, make conclusions. This will help prepare students for their science fair project that they will begin working on soon. To help your child in science begin brainstorming ideas for a science fair project. I will send home important information and dates soon.
Date to Remember
Wednesday, September 9..............................Early Dismissal
Thursday, September 17...............................Open House
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
I am so happy with how well all the students have already mastered so many of the classroom routines and expectations. We are getting our baseline assessments completed and beginning the math curriculum.
Thank you to all the parents who have sent in supplies for the classroom! It is greatly appreciated and the students now have the tools they need to be successful this year.
Math
We have begun working in the new math curriculum. Students are enjoying the fluency sprints and other activities we are focusing on to enhance previous math skills. We are currently working on place value. Place value is an extremely important foundation for understand other math concepts. I also have begun sending math homework this week. Students received a math handout on Monday and it will be due on Friday. They may work at it through the week at their pace. To help your child at home, review multiplication facts for memorization. Students need to know their facts and could have forgotten some over the summer.
Science
We will begin the year with a focus on scientific practices. Students will study what scientists do such as observe, test, experiment, make conclusions. This will help prepare students for their science fair project that they will begin working on soon. To help your child in science begin brainstorming ideas for a science fair project. I will send home important information and dates soon.
Date to Remember
Wednesday, September 9..............................Early Dismissal
Thursday, September 17...............................Open House
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, April 12, 2015
Week of April 13-17, 2015
It is hard to believe 3rd nine weeks report cards will go home this week. Students are working hard these final weeks to do well on their next 2 hurdles...the Science Post CGA and the final I-Ready test. Students can access the I-Ready website from home. This is excellent practice in math! They know the website and their usernames and passwords. I encourage all to work on this at home to help fill in skills they may still need help with.
Math
This week in math we will review and study fractions. Students will practice adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions. You should still see math home coming home in the form of their weekly page which is due every Friday.
Science
We have finished our study of Rocks, Minerals and Natural Resources. Students have a vocabulary list and study guide to help them review and prepare for their test Friday, April 17. We are moving on to Earth and Space. One of the assignments students will have will be to track the moon for the next month.
Dates to Remember
Friday, April 17.........................Report cards go home
Friday, May 1............................FSA Picnic
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
This week in math we will review and study fractions. Students will practice adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions. You should still see math home coming home in the form of their weekly page which is due every Friday.
Science
We have finished our study of Rocks, Minerals and Natural Resources. Students have a vocabulary list and study guide to help them review and prepare for their test Friday, April 17. We are moving on to Earth and Space. One of the assignments students will have will be to track the moon for the next month.
Dates to Remember
Friday, April 17.........................Report cards go home
Friday, May 1............................FSA Picnic
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Updates Week of April 6-10, 2015
We are finished with the FSA for Math!! Yea!!! I am very proud of how hard the students worked and how hard they tried on the test. But....it is now on to hurdle 2 and 3. I have told students that they have 2 more end of the year assessments to complete. One is the I-ready end of the year test. This is a computer based test that they have taken 2 times this year. The scores will show their growth from the beginning of the year. The second is the Science CGA post test. This score will also show their growth through this year by comparing their baseline score from the beginning of this year to the end of the year test. Soooo, as I have told the children, there is much more work to be done. You should still see math homework coming home on Monday and due on Friday as well as Science coming home.
Math
We will be using the i-ready computer curriculum on Monday's, Tuesday's and Friday's to help prepare students for their I-ready test. On the other days we will be reviewing and ramping up for 5th grade.
Science
Students will be working through the rest of their Science curriculum using their textbook, vocabulary cards, study guides and assigned reading log books. You should see vocabulary and reading logs with questions being completed at home throughout the week.
Dates to remember:
April 6...............................4th quarter
April 8...............................early dismissal
April 17.............................Report cards go home
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
We will be using the i-ready computer curriculum on Monday's, Tuesday's and Friday's to help prepare students for their I-ready test. On the other days we will be reviewing and ramping up for 5th grade.
Science
Students will be working through the rest of their Science curriculum using their textbook, vocabulary cards, study guides and assigned reading log books. You should see vocabulary and reading logs with questions being completed at home throughout the week.
Dates to remember:
April 6...............................4th quarter
April 8...............................early dismissal
April 17.............................Report cards go home
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Updates Week of March 23-27, 2015
Well this is it! We will begin taking the FSA's this week. Students have worked hard and I know they will do their best on these tests. Here are a few tips to help your child do their best: 1. Get to bed on time for plenty of rest the nights before the test. 2. Eat a good breakfast and keep the mornings of the test calm. 3. Encourage and remind them they can do it!!
Math
We are currently working on the Measurement and Data standard in math. Students will learn about the customary and metric systems of measurement. They will practice measuring, determining approximate measurements, determining which unit to use to measure objects and how to convert units of measure from larger to smaller units. We will work with these skills in class as well as some extra practice at home.
You should have been seeing an FSA (Florida Standard Assessment) countdown packet come home over the last 3 weeks, including Spring Break. Students have also been practicing these same types of problems in class in preparation for the test for us next week.
Dates to remember:
March 25................................Early dismissal
March 26-27..........................Reading FSA Session 1 and 2
March 31-April 1...................Math FSA Session 1 and 2
April 1....................................Last day of 3rd quarter
April 2....................................Planning Day - No School
April 3....................................Good Friday Holiday- No School
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
We are currently working on the Measurement and Data standard in math. Students will learn about the customary and metric systems of measurement. They will practice measuring, determining approximate measurements, determining which unit to use to measure objects and how to convert units of measure from larger to smaller units. We will work with these skills in class as well as some extra practice at home.
You should have been seeing an FSA (Florida Standard Assessment) countdown packet come home over the last 3 weeks, including Spring Break. Students have also been practicing these same types of problems in class in preparation for the test for us next week.
Dates to remember:
March 25................................Early dismissal
March 26-27..........................Reading FSA Session 1 and 2
March 31-April 1...................Math FSA Session 1 and 2
April 1....................................Last day of 3rd quarter
April 2....................................Planning Day - No School
April 3....................................Good Friday Holiday- No School
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Countdown to the FSA-Florida State Assessments
21 days till the FSA's!!! The Math FSA's that is. The FSA is this year's equivalent to last year's FCAT. It is the way the state is going to measure student proficiency this year. There are many differences in the 2 tests.
First, this year's test is more performance based with the expectation for some written answers in math. This is something students have not been asked to do before in school. For example, they may have to write an equation in a box to represent how they would solve a word problem.
Another difference is that students will have to select multiple correct answers for one question. Not just one of the multiple choice ansewers will be correct, there may be 2 or 3 or more answers correct for the one problem.
Lastly, one way to explain the difference between the tests are that last year's FCAT was a more answer driven test. Students were posed a problem, they had to solve it and then choose the answer from a multiple choice selection of answers. This year is looks like a more "why" or "how" did you get your answer. Which equation would you use to solve the problem. It questions their thinking as well as answers.
We will be practicing problems in class using a countdown packet. I have broken it into a homework packet as well. You should see your child working on the packets beginning this week. Packet one will be due March 9th and packet 2 will be due when they return from Spring Break on March 23. Students will most likely need to work on it during Spring Break.
Please review the packet with your child as well as multiplication facts. Many students are still adding on, skip counting or counting on their fingers to get answers. This not only slows them down on a timed test but it also hinders them when working with division, factors and multiples. Which this in turn hurts them when working on fractions. So many of the standards they are working on require a firm knowledge of multiplication facts.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask!!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
First, this year's test is more performance based with the expectation for some written answers in math. This is something students have not been asked to do before in school. For example, they may have to write an equation in a box to represent how they would solve a word problem.
Another difference is that students will have to select multiple correct answers for one question. Not just one of the multiple choice ansewers will be correct, there may be 2 or 3 or more answers correct for the one problem.
Lastly, one way to explain the difference between the tests are that last year's FCAT was a more answer driven test. Students were posed a problem, they had to solve it and then choose the answer from a multiple choice selection of answers. This year is looks like a more "why" or "how" did you get your answer. Which equation would you use to solve the problem. It questions their thinking as well as answers.
We will be practicing problems in class using a countdown packet. I have broken it into a homework packet as well. You should see your child working on the packets beginning this week. Packet one will be due March 9th and packet 2 will be due when they return from Spring Break on March 23. Students will most likely need to work on it during Spring Break.
Please review the packet with your child as well as multiplication facts. Many students are still adding on, skip counting or counting on their fingers to get answers. This not only slows them down on a timed test but it also hinders them when working with division, factors and multiples. Which this in turn hurts them when working on fractions. So many of the standards they are working on require a firm knowledge of multiplication facts.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask!!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Updates week of February 23-27, 2015
We have hit the middle of the third nine weeks. Students took home their mid-term progress report on Friday. Many students are doing a great job with their job as a fourth grade Math and Language student, however there are a few that need to put more effort into their school work as well as their homework. I asked a student Friday, "When your grade is low, what do you think I look at first? Your homework grades or your test grades?" In both classes students answered the questions beautifully with, "I think you look at the homework grades first because if you aren't doing your homework then you aren't practicing for the test and you won't know if you don't understand or not to be able to ask questions." Students have homework every night. It is very important for them to practice and reinforce what they are learning at school in the evenings. Please ask your child what they have for homework. Review it with them and make sure they understand. If they aren't understanding they can bring it in class and ask the teacher through the week.
Math
This week we will review what we have been studying which is polygons and using their attributes to categorize them. We will work on line of symmetry, area and perimeter this week also. Students have a weekly test on what we study during the week. Ask your child what they are learning in class.
Science
We are still in our chapter on rocks, minerals and natural resources. Students will be completing their study guide this week and bringing it home to review and study. Also please note that all science tests are open book. We will have read and discussed all the lessons and completed all the practice questions in the lessons prior to the test.
Dates to remember:
Progress report due back signed.....................February 23
Early dismissal................................................February 25
Spring Break...................................................March 16-20
Reading FSA...................................................March 26-27
Math FSA........................................................March 31, April 1
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
This week we will review what we have been studying which is polygons and using their attributes to categorize them. We will work on line of symmetry, area and perimeter this week also. Students have a weekly test on what we study during the week. Ask your child what they are learning in class.
Science
We are still in our chapter on rocks, minerals and natural resources. Students will be completing their study guide this week and bringing it home to review and study. Also please note that all science tests are open book. We will have read and discussed all the lessons and completed all the practice questions in the lessons prior to the test.
Dates to remember:
Progress report due back signed.....................February 23
Early dismissal................................................February 25
Spring Break...................................................March 16-20
Reading FSA...................................................March 26-27
Math FSA........................................................March 31, April 1
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Monday, February 2, 2015
Updates Week of February 2-6, 2015
I have begun a new routine for homework beginning last week. Students will bring home a math paper to complete throughout the week along with a science book and reading log. Please review both the math paper and science book with your child througout the week to reinforce what we are learning in class.
Math
This week we will continue working on patterns. Students will use geometric and numeric patterns to determine a rule and then use that rule to extend a pattern. They may also have to write an equation to show how to extend the pattern. Later in the week students will also make tables and graph patterns they are working with. Ask your child to find patterns at home and when you are out and about in the neighborhood.
We are back to taking our timed multiplication facts test in preparation for the timed state test. I was finding some were getting slow again after working with fractions and winter break. Drill facts nightly, tests will be every Friday.
Science
We have finished our chapter on energy. Students took their test last Friday. You should have seen them studying a study guide at home. We will move on to our chapter on rocks and minerals. Ask your child what they learned each day in science about rocks and minerals.
Conduct
Students need to follow class and school routines. They are fully aware of our class and school routines however, there are times lately where class and school routines are not being followed. Ask your child about our class and school expectations in the hallways, during class, packing up and dismissal. They should be able to tell you. If you see a note stapled in the planner it will most likely be because they are not meeting the expectations for class and school routines. Please review them with them.
As always, thank you for your support for your child's success!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
This week we will continue working on patterns. Students will use geometric and numeric patterns to determine a rule and then use that rule to extend a pattern. They may also have to write an equation to show how to extend the pattern. Later in the week students will also make tables and graph patterns they are working with. Ask your child to find patterns at home and when you are out and about in the neighborhood.
We are back to taking our timed multiplication facts test in preparation for the timed state test. I was finding some were getting slow again after working with fractions and winter break. Drill facts nightly, tests will be every Friday.
Science
We have finished our chapter on energy. Students took their test last Friday. You should have seen them studying a study guide at home. We will move on to our chapter on rocks and minerals. Ask your child what they learned each day in science about rocks and minerals.
Conduct
Students need to follow class and school routines. They are fully aware of our class and school routines however, there are times lately where class and school routines are not being followed. Ask your child about our class and school expectations in the hallways, during class, packing up and dismissal. They should be able to tell you. If you see a note stapled in the planner it will most likely be because they are not meeting the expectations for class and school routines. Please review them with them.
As always, thank you for your support for your child's success!
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Updates Week of January 26-30, 2015
Well, we have finished the second round of progress monitoring assessments; the i-ready and the curriculum guide assessment. I will be reviewing the students' progress here at mid-year and looking for any areas of weakness that will need to be retaught before the state assessment coming at the end of March. One way to really help your child in Math is to make sure they know their multiplication facts without having to stop and figure them out on paper or fingers. Their state test is timed and not knowing their facts could cause them to run out of time. Also, please look for and review nightly homework in Math and Science Monday thru Thursday.
Math
We have concluded our focus on multiplication, division, fractions and decimals. We will be moving on this 3rd nine weeks with patterns, geometry and measurement and data. With that being said, students will still receive homework on the past skills so they don't forget them. This week students will practice looking for patterns in shapes and numbers. They will look for rules to apply to explain the pattern and in some cases an arithmetic expression to explain the pattern. Such as, add 2. Look for things around the house that have a pattern and have your child describe the pattern.
Science
We are still closing our study on energy. Students will be moving on to rocks and minerals after their test.
Date to remember:
January 28..........................Early dismissal and report cards go home
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
We have concluded our focus on multiplication, division, fractions and decimals. We will be moving on this 3rd nine weeks with patterns, geometry and measurement and data. With that being said, students will still receive homework on the past skills so they don't forget them. This week students will practice looking for patterns in shapes and numbers. They will look for rules to apply to explain the pattern and in some cases an arithmetic expression to explain the pattern. Such as, add 2. Look for things around the house that have a pattern and have your child describe the pattern.
Science
We are still closing our study on energy. Students will be moving on to rocks and minerals after their test.
Date to remember:
January 28..........................Early dismissal and report cards go home
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Monday, January 19, 2015
Updates Week of January 19
We have now officially completed the second nine weeks of school. Grades are in and the new nine weeks has begun. We will conclude the second nine weeks this week with the curriculum guide assessment. Reading will be administered Wednesday and Math on Thursday. It will be an 80 minute test. Please make sure your child rests and is ready to show what they know for this nine weeks.
Math
Last week students took their mid year diagnostic on the i-ready website for Math. I was very please with the progress they are making. Please continue to practice and review homework every night.
This week along with the CGA 2 students will work on learning about decimals in math. This is an extension of fractions which we have been working on. They will need to understand the place value system as well as compare and convert decimals and fractions. Look for homework to come home this week.
A couple ways to help your child in math are to continually practice multiplication facts and division facts with them as well as let them get on i-ready at home. They should have their usernames and passwords in their planners.
Science
We will be concluding soon the chapter on Energy. You should see a study guide coming home at the end of this week. Please review it with your child. Ask your child what energy is and what the different types are.
Date to Remember
3rd nine weeks begins........................January 15
CGA 2 Reading..................................January 21
CGA 2 Math.......................................January 22
STEAM Night....................................January 22
Report Cards go home.......................January 28
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
Last week students took their mid year diagnostic on the i-ready website for Math. I was very please with the progress they are making. Please continue to practice and review homework every night.
This week along with the CGA 2 students will work on learning about decimals in math. This is an extension of fractions which we have been working on. They will need to understand the place value system as well as compare and convert decimals and fractions. Look for homework to come home this week.
A couple ways to help your child in math are to continually practice multiplication facts and division facts with them as well as let them get on i-ready at home. They should have their usernames and passwords in their planners.
Science
We will be concluding soon the chapter on Energy. You should see a study guide coming home at the end of this week. Please review it with your child. Ask your child what energy is and what the different types are.
Date to Remember
3rd nine weeks begins........................January 15
CGA 2 Reading..................................January 21
CGA 2 Math.......................................January 22
STEAM Night....................................January 22
Report Cards go home.......................January 28
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Friday, January 9, 2015
Welcome to the New Year!!!!
I hope everyone had a wonderful winter break and a great new year!! I hope the children are ready to work as we will be coming up on the CGA 2 January 20th and the state test in March before you know it. The end of the nine weeks will be here right around the corner, too. We still have a lot of skills and standards to cover so please continue to encourage and remind your child about the seriousness and focus they need to have in class.
Math
This week we will continue to work with fractions. Students will practice comparing and ordering fractions using number lines, benchmark numbers, and equivalent fractions. We will also cover adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators and mixed numbers. Please look for math homework and review it with your child nightly.
Science
We are still on our chapter covering different types of energy. I have started a new homework routine for science which includes reading a book and completing a reading log throughout the week. Students will get their book on Monday and have all week to read the book, complete the reading log and answer the questions in the back of the book. This will be part of their science grade. Ask your child about what they are reading and learning about in their book.
Ways to help at home
Students always can use review of math multiplication facts. Have students write multiples of numbers. For example: 2: 2,4,6,8,10,12......7:7,14,21,28,35,42. Have them say, "2 times 1 is 2, 2 times 2 is 4, 2 time 3 is 6 however, they write the multiple as the say it. Also call out facts in multiplication form and division form. Ask, " 7 time 5 equals what?" or say, " What time 8 equals 32?" or say, "What times 7 gets me 28?" This will help when students are dividing as well as working with fractions.
Date to Remember
January 7.......................early dismissal
January 14....................end of the 2nd nine weeks
January 16....................Teacher Planning day-No School
January 19....................Martin Luther King Day-No School
January 20....................CGA 2 begins
January 28....................early dismissal and report cards go home
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
Math
This week we will continue to work with fractions. Students will practice comparing and ordering fractions using number lines, benchmark numbers, and equivalent fractions. We will also cover adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators and mixed numbers. Please look for math homework and review it with your child nightly.
Science
We are still on our chapter covering different types of energy. I have started a new homework routine for science which includes reading a book and completing a reading log throughout the week. Students will get their book on Monday and have all week to read the book, complete the reading log and answer the questions in the back of the book. This will be part of their science grade. Ask your child about what they are reading and learning about in their book.
Ways to help at home
Students always can use review of math multiplication facts. Have students write multiples of numbers. For example: 2: 2,4,6,8,10,12......7:7,14,21,28,35,42. Have them say, "2 times 1 is 2, 2 times 2 is 4, 2 time 3 is 6 however, they write the multiple as the say it. Also call out facts in multiplication form and division form. Ask, " 7 time 5 equals what?" or say, " What time 8 equals 32?" or say, "What times 7 gets me 28?" This will help when students are dividing as well as working with fractions.
Date to Remember
January 7.......................early dismissal
January 14....................end of the 2nd nine weeks
January 16....................Teacher Planning day-No School
January 19....................Martin Luther King Day-No School
January 20....................CGA 2 begins
January 28....................early dismissal and report cards go home
Until next time,
R. O'Steen
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