Whew!! This is what I feel when I look back to our first 6 weeks of school.  We are still settling in to our routine and students continue to adjust to new ways of learning.  We are becoming independent readers and better students.  I want the students to take responsibility for their education.  When they feel this ownership, true engagement and learning take place.  We are beginning our second literature circle novel series.  The students will receive novel packets to help track their comprehension and thinking throughout their reading.  
Thank you for your continued support.  Please continue to review homework nightly for completion and correctness.  It is imperative that sound study habits become second nature and the students always put forth their best effort in ALL of their work.  I am always available if you have any questions or concerns.  

A GREAT beginning!  Our first two weeks of school have flown by and we are finally starting to settle.  I just wanted to blog a few thoughts as I reflect on our first two weeks.  We have a wonderful, caring group of 5th graders in our family.  I have enjoyed getting to know them and look forward to even more insights to my kids.  I know how overwhelming school can seem at times so please know I supplied you with my contact numbers because I truly want you to call if you have questions.  My cell has voice mail so leave a message if I don't answer. 
   The weekly paragraph assignment has begun and many students turned in some great writing.  Please be aware this is assigned on Monday and due on Friday.  A true revision/rough draft page is necessary.  I count off for spelling and grammatical errors along with the other integral parts the students are required to include in their paragraph.  A parent/guardian signature is required on the rough draft to signify who reviewed their work with them.  I want them to use a dictionary along with all their previous and new grammar lessons and writing lessons.  Paragraphs thrown together at the last minute will not earn a passing grade. I expect  5th grade level and beyond writing.  The students know this means creative words and sentences. 
    The students are very excited about creating their cell models.  Each student is requird to submit a plant or animal cell model for a grade.  Don't forget to label! In addition, students may work with partners or a group to submit a second model for extra credit.  I always have very creative models and I'm looking forward to seeing what this group submits.