As we continue to work on this motto for best behavior, we are discussing the role model of Dr. Martin Luther King who worked to change people's attitudes and laws with his words and his brain....not with violence! I am using the reason for the holiday on Monday to talk about the power of words, to introduce the next genre we will study ( biographies) and to reinforce that all people are the same inside and should be judged on their character and not their looks!
I hope you are enjoying reading Charlotte's web with your child. It is a great book for everyone - no matter their age. We are doing activities in class (and next week with our buddies) to keep the excitement going in school. Please check out the One School One Book blog on the Slingerlands website and send us photos of your family enjoying reading together!
The Raffe Report for next week:
Mon. No School
Math: mental subtraction strategies (if you wish to switch the Xtra math practice to subtraction for this unit you can - just follow the instructions for the parents on the website), next week is the January timed facts tests
Reading: finishing up myths(Reader's Theater presentations), science booklet reading for SImple Machines
Writing: learning to include specific content vocabulary and definitions in information writing (or using a glossary)
Spelling/word work: Unit 14 ip words, spelling/use of question words
Science: finishing up simple machines/starting balance and weighing unit
Notes of interest:
There is a new behavior program in place in the cafeteria for reinforcing the following behaviors:
Hands/Feet/Objects to Self
Being Respectful
Following Directions
Children are given warnings and an oops! reminder slip by noon hour aides. When they get an oops slip they will need to speak to Mrs. Bonacquist, if they get a second then parents are called. Students who follow the rules can earn Blue ribbons and a chance in a lottery drawing to eat lunch with Mrs. Bonacquist.
Friday January 31st is the last day for two long- time, valuable employees. Mrs. Marilyn Valentini, a district teacher will retire (Clarksville/Slingerlands), and so will Cathy Hasselbach who has been a classroom aide in many different grades/rooms. If your child has had either of these wonderful women and would like to write a card for them, please feel free to send it in and I will be sure they receive it. We wish them both good health and lots of fun in retirement. Thursday, 1/30 will be "Dress Like A Farmer Day" . For the donation of $1.00 (to go to the Humane Society) your child can dress up like a farmer for the day. A letter explaining this program will come home next week. I can't wait....
