Last week, the Benchmark assessments in reading and math slowed our progress.  This week, we will be working hard in class to develop more successful strategies to prepare for ISATs in March.  I hope you had a chance to work with your child in their ISAT books over the weekend.  My goal is to prepare students as much as possible so they are successful.

Again, we could really use Kleenex.  If you think about it and can donate some, our runny noses would really appreciate it!  If you have any questions, please contact me via email:  agkrecik@cps.edu.

<strong>Reading</strong><strong>: </strong>In addition to students’ daily responsibilities in Reader’s Workshop, we will review the reading strategy, using context clues.  In addition, students will write an extended response to a read aloud in class.   For weekend ISAT practice, students will work on identifying story elements.  <strong>Students should be reading books to accomplish their AR goal for the quarter.</strong>

<strong>Writing: </strong>Students will present group writing projects:   “Make A Menu”.  <strong>In addition, students will write expository essays to practice for ISAT and read, analyze and write poetry in class.</strong>

<strong>Math:</strong> This week, we will complete Unit 4:  Division.  We will clarify different methods for division and dividing decimals and work on Short answer Responses and extended responses.  For weekend ISAT practice, students will work on fractions.  Students will take a Unit 4 test on Thursday.  We will begin Unit 5:  Fractions next week.  <strong>Homework:</strong> SL 4.5, 4.6 and Math Journal pp:  110, 113-114.

<strong>Science: </strong>This week we will make observations on ordinary objects and practice communicating our observations in writing.

<strong>Social Studies: </strong><strong>Because of the Geography Bee, we have fallen behind schedule in Social Studies. </strong>This week, students will continue presenting their Explorer Treasure boxes.  We will read about Dutch and French colonization this week. Students will take the Chapter 5 exam next week.<strong> </strong>

<strong>Spelling: </strong>Students should study weekly spelling words for the week.  <strong>Our test will be Friday.</strong>