The Next Few Weeks

Thank you to all the families who sent in extra pencils and snacks. It has helped the classroom tremendously and seeing the outside donations has helped slow food requests from students with packed lunches. I really appreciate the support!

This week, we are continuing our state test adventures with the Language Arts performance task. Students are asked to read a series of articles on the same topic, reflect on the information within the reading, and then use the information to write an expository, narrative, or persuasive piece. It is a very demanding task, but the students are working hard. 

Next week, we will begin math testing. First we will have a week of multiple choice items, followed by a week off. Then, May 15-19, we will conclude state testing with the completion of the math performance task. I can't wait!

On May 10th, the sixth grade team will be heading to Portland for our annual Timbers soccer game field trip. More information will follow soon. I have room for five chaperones, but tickets are not free. If you would like to join us, please let me know. The cost is $10.

A Few Quick Notes for the Week

This week's writing homework has to do with executive functioning skills. I had students complete a short survey to help them reflect on their strengths and weakness in the classroom environment. If you have an opportunity, please take a minute to look through the survey with your child. It is interesting to see how they think they perform in the different areas. Some kids seem very in touch with their performance, some are very hard on themselves, while others appear pretty satisfied with their skills. Enjoy!

A helpful chart from Mrs. White

I also have a special plea: we are running out of pencils, tissues, and boy are these kids hungry! For most of the year, I have tried to have a few snacks available to students that do not pack lunches. But, in the last few weeks, I have a number of students asking for food. I do not mind sharing, but I also am spending quite a bit of money at Grocery Outlet supplying these snacks. If you would like to make a small donation (think granola bars, string cheese, crackers), it would be much appreciated. If you are a cold lunch packer, please take a moment to check with you child to see if they are feeling hungry throughout the day. Some students are eating their whole lunch at snack time! Any pencils or tissues are also welcome!

Finally, report cards will be coming home with your student on Thursday afternoon. Please look for the envelope. I will also include a small slip of paper for the parents to sign indicating you have reviewed the report card. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me via e-mail or telephone call. 

It's Spring!

State Testing

I hope all of you had a relaxing and refreshing spring break. In the last week, we have fully gotten back into the "spring" of things with the start of state testing. This week, your students will be finishing the first section of the language arts test. In two weeks, we will begin the essay portion of the exam. All of the kids are working very hard, taking their time, and being exceptionally respectful in the testing environment. 

You may have also noted the lack of writing homework last week; as a gift to the class, I do not assign writing homework on the weeks we have state testing. I hope the students are taking the opportunity to get outside and get some fresh air every afternoon. As we approach math testing, I may assign short writing assignments. More information will follow.

Human Growth and Development

This afternoon your student will be bringing home information about our human growth and reproduction unit. We will begin instruction next week. If you would like to look over the curriculum, or if you have any questions, please feel free send me an email. All of the materials we cover in class are available in the main office for you to preview. 

Please also take a moment to remind your student of your behavior expectations while covering this material. I have a very strict "zero-tolerance" policy for inappropriate call-outs and/or language. Students who cannot self-manage during this unit will be asked to leave class, will receive a referral, and may possibly not return to class until we are done with the unit. 

Science

Ms. C wanted me to let you know that catapults will be due on May 3rd, and the yellow folder and catapult packet are due by May 5th. The catapult project is an at-home assignment. If you have questions, please feel free to send Ms. C any queries. She is excited to see what the students create.