MS. SOTOLONGO'S 3RD GRADE - lsotolongo3

A very huge thank you to Mrs. Sondak and Mr. Ragland for making the memory CD happen.  It is SO FANTASTIC.  The kids and I LOVE it! Every child is going home with their own copy.  What a great way to remember this terrific year!  I hope you and your family enjoy watching it and that it becomes a keepsake. 

 

Today students received their nine week awards and the fun "end-of-the-year" awards.  All of the students are so wonderful and it has been such a pleasure to work with them.  Thank you for everything you have done to support learning, fun, and me this year.  We couldn't have had this fantastic year with you.  You are A++ parents in my book!!!!

 

Tomorrow students will go home with reports and their CRCT scores (they arrived this week).  After reviewing the grades or CRCT report, please let me know if you have any questions. 

What a great week!  We got great CRCT scores, the kids are learning all about making newsletters on word, are finishing their memory books, and celebrated today all day!  I do want to take just a moment to brag on the wonderful work the students did on CRCT.  They exceeded the already high PMES 3rd grade average for students who exceeded in reading, language arts and math.  In our classroom 72% of students exceeded, in language arts 68% exceeded, and in math 72% exceeded.  Isn't that WONDERFUL?!  I am so very proud of all their hard work, focus, and effort!

 

Next week, we wil finish our memory books and newsletters and start working on how to create good powerpoints.  We are getting all of our technology learning in while we review our response to literature and persuasive skills.  We also have step up day, yearbook signing, and our end of the year awards to look forward to.  I can't believe there are only 5 school days left! 

 

I have great kids that work very hard to behave and be respectful.  Please remind your students that this behavior is expected especially because there are only five days to go.  Thanks for your friendly reminders and encouragement!  The grades have been posted and report cards will go home on Friday.  Remember to send students to school with their bookbags empty on Thursday as we will empty out our desks and take home other items.  On Friday, no book bags or lunch bags allowed (plastic or paper bags are okay). 

 

I look forward to hearing from you before the end of the year to say good bye (until I see you again in the fall).  I will work on putting together a few ideas of things to do before fourth grade for you to ensure that your child is 100% ready for fourth. 

 

Have a great weekend.

Remember to look at the calendar for specifics on our day long celebration--there's a lot going on!  22 students have paid....3 students have not.  I plan on allowing all students to participate, but if your child did not earn/save enough, please use this as a great time to discuss the importance of good behavior and saving.  I will even ask that you let them "sweat it out" until tomorrow, so they can reflect on the importance of good behavior and saving.  THANKS!

Teachers received reports today, however individual student reports are NOT in the building and will not be in until the summer.  Parents will find individual reports in the information summer packets that will be available for pick up the week of July 25th.  I feel that each and every child tried their very best.  Please CELEBRATE all the hard work that went into earning their great scores! 

 

 

The students had such a fantastic job.  All of the volunteers deserve A HUGE THANK YOU for making everything possible.  The best part was the "Immunity-tent" for teachers only.  That is the most enjoyable spring party EVER!  THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

Students are eager to add pictures from the year to their memory books.  You can easily download pictures and print them from your home computer.  All you need to do is sign in as a member (it's free).  Then once your on the picture your child wants, right click and a downloading option will appear.  Once it's downloaded you can print, or copy/paste it into word....resize as needed.  Let me know if you need help. 

We made it through Friday the 13th with relative calmness and now the countdown is on-10 more days to go and SUMMER! 

Next week we have our 3rd grade spring party (end of the year party).  Please make sure your child has a green bandana or that you sent in $1 to Mrs. Childs.  The students and I would love for you to come and enjoy the end of the year party with us on the 18th. 

Students will also be participarting in an all day celebration this coming Friday.  We have a fun-filled day planned of relaxing and enjoying ourselves with friends.  Mrs. Boicu has graciously agreed to donate pizza during lunch for our celebration. 

This week is also textbook inventory, so make sure to turn in any textbooks and library books.  As the year wraps up, I will begin to close out grades (early this week) and prepare for the 4th nine weeks awards.  I will also have students turn in any classroom books that belong to me.  I need to sort through them and pack them for my move to fifth grade next year!  [I am so excited to move up to fifth, because that means I will hopefully get to work with my wonderful students again soon!]  Since I will be collecting books, students will be "bookless" for the last week of school.  Please send your child to school with the book they are reading at home for the last week of school, as there will be daily reading time Monday-Thursday of the last week.  Remember you don't need to buy books....the Hamilton Mill Library is full of awesome books and has the feel of a bookstore (minus the much need cafe area). 

 

As we approach the end, please feel free to email me or visit with me if you have any questions or concerns about this year or the next.  I welcome the chance to write/chat and know your thoughts. 

 

Have a fantastic weekend.

The students had SOOOOOOOO much fun!  Thank you for everything you did to support your child on this project!  Also, a big thank you to Bryce's mom and Marlena's mom who had to come and bring in items, and stayed to help me out!   I also want to thank Melissa, Robert's sister and her friend who also helped and got to shop too! 

Thank you for making me feel like the most loved teacher EVER!  I love all the individual gifts, chocolates, gift cards, and memory frame!  It is nice to feel so appreciated and cared for!

 

This week students began working on their memory book, reading project, and long division.  We will continue to work on these skills next week.  The students are working hard at keeping their behavior in check, even though they are excited about summer time quickly approaching!  Please continue to monitor grades on line.  Some grades were added this week, but more will be added over the course of the next 2 weeks.  If you have any questions or concerns, please make sure to contact me. 

 

Friday folders and choice cards went home today.  Please review these items and discuss them with your child.  Also make sure to look at the calendar of events so that you don't miss out any importants dates.  Remember to join us for our end-of-the-year spring party so you can celebrate and have fun with the kids. 

 

I want to thank Mrs. Chase and Mrs. Milam for all their hard work this year in organizing events and activities!  They did an amazing job and worked flawlessly together.  I also want to thank  Ms. Martin, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Rhine for their commitment to meeting weekly with their reading buddies.  The students loved the one on one time and made gains in their reading with your love and support.  All these wonderful ladies have been invitied to attend the volunteer breakfast coming up soon.  THANK YOU!!

 

Have a great weekend.

Since I have the BEST class ever, I love that I have a beautiful memory of us.  Thank you Ms. Milam for taking a new class picture. I like the new one better than the formal one we took.  I love how the kids signed their names.  I can only hope to get all my students again in fifth grade!  Parents, thank you for all the special attention and making me feel special.

.....gift cards!  I LOVE them.  I already knew I had the best students and parents ever, and now you are all just SPOILING ME (and I love it)!  Thank you for making me feel so loved and special.  The kids have been on there absolutely BEST behavior ever too!  I can't wait to go and spend some money!

....for all the yummy dark chocolate.  It all looks so delicious!  Thank you for thinking of me today.  You are the best!

Please take time to look through the pictures on the website and help your child download them and paste them onto a "word document".  Then you can make the sizes smaller and print them for your childs memory book.  Have them print their favorites.....a picture with a friend, field day, enjoying a celebration, playing a game, etc......

No due date....students are working on writing about their third grade memories all month.  The pictures will help decorate the book and generate ideas.

CRCT is over!  The students all worked very hard.  I know they did their best and will be very proud of their results.  I want to thank all the parents that helped make this week great by sending in food! 

 

After testing students created the seating arrangement in the room and picked where to sit.  Students who can handle the responsibility that comes with making choices will enjoy their new seats until the end of May.  A few students are beginning to behave inappropriately for the school setting.  Some of this is tied to the different schedule this week and the stress from testing.  We reviewed expectations and rules today that students will follow until the last day of school. Please take some time to remind your child about following rules and expectations up through the last day of school and the importance of avoiding the appearance of being inappropriate.  This includes making good choices when the teacher is not supervising, like restroom breaks.  To maintain safety and an appropriate learning environment for all students, students will be given one warning and then choice cards will be marked.

 

Friday folders and choice cards did not go home today.  Please make sure to return them next week and we will jump right back into our normal routine.  The economics brainstorming sheet is due this Monday and I have attached the forms again for you under "Forms".  On Tuesday the April reading logs are due.  Please also remember to send in picture money or return the envelope.  Thanks!  

 

Next week students will begin working the economics posters in class. They may bring in items for the poster.  I will provide students with the actual poster board and students will have access to construction paper.  Students will begin a month long reading and writing project.  Directions and expectations will be reviewed in class.  Students will be responsible for making sure they progress through each step of the projects and grades will be taken for the different parts.  In math, we will pick up on long division (2 and 3-step). 

 

Have a great weekend!  Enjoy the nice weather and celebrate their hard work this week. 

to all the parents and families that sent in treats and snacks for the CRCT! We have had all the things I've asked for and more sent in everyday!  The kids are enjoying all of it and I really appreciate your help in setting a positive mood for testing!

 

Today the kids continue to work well. Some are showing signs of tiring (four straight days of testing will do that to a nine-year-old), but are trying hard to focus and work through questions carefully.  All the students are working hard.  Please remember to encourage them and tell them how proud you are.  One more testing day!

 

Next week by Monday, please submit the economics brainstorming sheet that went home. Students will begin working on posters in school on Monday.  Thanks. 

The students continue to work very hard and are loving the snacks and treats!  Students took their time and showed thinking in their booklets and scratch paper today.  They did seem a little tired (from all that testing), so make sure they continue to get a very good nights sleep.  Science tomorrow! 

 

No book bags please, but make sure they come in with their reading books.  There will be reading time for the rest of the week. 

Testing today was even better than yesterday.  ALL THE STUDENTS worked extra hard today.  You could see every child take their time, eliminate poor choices, and think about the correct answer.  I am VERY PROUD them!

 

Tomorrow is Math.  Students and I practiced today and reviewed good test taking strategies for math.  Every student can earn a high score in math if they: 

 

• read carefully (even though they are tired and it's the third day of testing)
• work through all problems carefully (add, subtract, multiply and divide without errors)
• check work on problems (use addition to check subtraction and multiplication to check division)
• use the scratch papers given to SHOW ALL THINKING
• pace themselves
• use strategies (draw picture, visualize, look for key words, understand the problem, read keys to charts, tables, and graphs)

 

Students may want to spend a short while 15-20 minutes reviewing measurement and geometry (how many inches in a foot? feet in a yard? millimeters in a meter?  what's a polygon? right angle? etc...)

 

Today is an important day to sleep early and get rest to help the brain recover from the last two days of testing and prepare for day #3.  Don't forget protein for breakfast today--they'll need it for the math problem solving; and don't forget the CRCT song to get them motivated!!!!!!

Economic project guidelines went home Friday.  Students will get $20.00 in play money to shop and provide change as needed to shoppers.  Remember to turn in the information sheet letting me know what students will be making or what service they will provide. 

We began our day with apple slices and peanut butter!  It was the perfect protein snack to get us started.  Students also received SMARTIES, so they would remember to show of their SMARTS this morning!  Testing today went very well.  MOST students were working very diligently, taking their time and using strategies.  Any on looker could tell that the students were eager to do their best!  I am very proud of their efforts today.  Tomorrow is Language Arts (grammar/writing). 

Students may leave their book bags at home this week.  Feel free to send in Friday folders, choice cards, and snacks for after the test (some kids were starving and couldn't wait for lunch at 12:21) in a plastic publix bag. 

....for great parents tips on supporting your child at home.

Please enjoy the weekend and time with your family.  Make sure to complete the CRCT homework I sent last that included a warm bubble bath, earlier bedtime, healthy breakfast, and waking up to our CRCT themed songs!  If you didn't receive it, let me know and I'll resend it. 

 

Today, Friday folders went home with most of the review work they completed.  Also look for pictures, Economic's Day project guidelines, and last chance for ordering from Scholastic.  There are some great summer deals.  I will close the orders next week if you decide to order. 

 

Have a great weekend!

....thanks to two visits from our parents with goodies.  The students LOVED the treats this morning and at the end of the day!  Thank you to Mrs. Childs and Mrs. Jones for thinking of all the children and helping make today special for them. 

THANK YOU to all the parents for rushing to volunteer and supply the children with a healthy protein snack and positive thinking treat each day of the CRCT next week!  The students will not get to snack during their short break in between subject area parts and the extra protein snack will help keep them full and their mind ready to process information!  You are truly the best parents EVER!

Time is FLYING!!!!!  We will be spending a great deal of time next week, reviewing learned skills and how to use STRATEGIES in reading and math.  Friday folders went home today with 2 weeks worth of work.  Some of it was completed the week before spring break and some of it this week.  Because a lot of review work is going home, I strongly encourage parents to review all papers and jot down skills you see your child may need a little extra practice on.  Review can be done with you orally, by printing a worksheet off the internet, or even playing games on line.  Those of you who have purchased Education City, can log on and find skills there too.  All review work is being graded daily and students are relearning and correcting work the next day.  Students should be correcting in color pencil so that you can see their first choice and new answer.  

 

A practice reading and math packet was sent home with each student today.  These are optional, but a good way to review and practice.  Students that complete the packets and review/fix errors with parents will be rewarded with decision dollars.  All you have to do is write a short note, on each packet, stating that the student worked hard to practice and correct errors, then sign your name.  Please remember their is online practice tests under parent links that you can access by subject if you need additional practice for your child.

 

The most important thing about next week is to make sure your child does not become stressed, so practice but please do not overwork students.  Remind them they have worked hard all year and are already ready for testing.  In class, we will review what to expect and how to handle test anxiety and what to do if they can't figure out a problem.  Please email me with any questions or concerns.  I will be happy to talk with you. 

 

Finally, next week I will be sending out a request to send in certain items (food items) for testing.  Each test day I would like to provide students with a very healthy morning snack and a treat to lift their mood and set a positive testing tone.  I will work on the food items and treat list this weekend and send out an email.  You have all been so wonderful in supporting EVERYTHING we do in class, and I really appreciate all the money you spend!  Please know that your efforts and energy to support the students and learning are greatly appreciated and do not go unnoticed! 

 

Have a great weekend!

I want to thank our room mom for working collaboratively with all third grade room moms.  They are working hard to organize a fun and safe end-of-the-year party.  THANK YOU FOR ALREADY VOLUNTEERING to send in items for the Spring Party! 

Puckett's Mill shoe drive: April 18 - 22. Could it be time for spring cleaning at your house? If so, when you find old tennis shoes, alone or in a pair, please donate them to the PMES Shoe Drive next week. We cannot accept sandals, Crocks, or anything other than tennis shoes. Thank you for supporting the Earth during this Earth Week

  I just finished grading the unit test and the students did absolutely AMAZING!!!!!!!!  I am very proud of how hard students are working.  Many students are even asking me to teach them more advanced multiplication and have jumped into two digit times two digit multiliplication!!!  Then they are practicing because they want to learn harder math.  Isn't that GREAT!   Parents, thanks for all your hard work and support!

Students will continue to read nightly (5 night minimum) for at least 30 minutes and document reading on the April reading log passed out the week before Spring Break.  Review assessments/practice have been opened/assigned for students on the "mytestbook" site.  Students should complete 2 assessments per school night.  Parents are encouraged to review the results together with their child and review/understand errors.  Games (using links from our class site) should be used to enforce practice of weaker skills.  If your child is needing practice in a certain skill and you can't find an on line game, please email me with the skill and I will take time to research and add new games to the website.  If you find a worthwhile learning game and I don't have it, please email me the link and I will add it for others to use too!  Flexibility with homework this month is being given so students can use the time to quickly review areas of strength and spend time learning and practicing areas that need learning growth.  Please contact me with any questions or concerns regarding how to best support your child's homework learning this month. 

Education City is a fun and easy to use on line learning tool.  We use it in school and now you can purchase it for about a year for just $6.00.  Since it's internet based, your child can access it anywhere he/she has internet access.  It's that easy.  All you need to do is fill out the form "Education City" under forms (see link to the left column) or visit the school web site and it's the first thing you see.  Feel free to email me with questions or feel free to visit the school and take a look to see how great the program is.  It's a wonderful tool to support learning in school and keep learning current over the summer. 

Today is Thursday and I know many of you are getting a head start.  I hope that everyone has a fun and restful break.   I will not be sending home Friday folders or choice cards tomorrow.  Please look for them again our first Friday back.  If you find you need your child to give you a small break as you begin to approach the end of spring break, please remember these two things that will help your child for CRCT:

• reading for extended periods of time
• having their multiplication facts memorized (this is a big one)

 

We will have two full weeks of school when we return from break before CRCT.  A lot of this time will be spent reviewing strategies and practicing skills.  I will not be assigning specific homework during the month of April, but will make review practice tests accessible for each child through the testbook website we have been using for the last two weeks.  I strongly recommend these two weeks to be used in studying and reviewing all material.  Each child has different strengths and areas that need practice.  Help your child quickly review those skills they have mastered (builds confidence) and provide practice in areas that need more work.  As always, I am here if you need any support or advice and I will do my best. 

....I am currently (to my knowledge) receiving emails, but am having trouble sending them out.  Hopefully the issue will be resolved soon. 

Our Sparrow Hawks Service Club will be having a canned food drive April 11th - April 15. All food donations will be given to the food pantry at Hamilton Mill Methodist Church. Thank you for helping families in our community that are in need.

Please take time to make sure your child is completing their homework on the computer.  The website I sent out is a great learning tool as students and parents can receive immediate feedback on thier work.  Parents should log in to see results and since you can pull up the actual test results and answers (with corrections), review errors with their students.  Are they trying hard? Just clicking away to finish? This is definitely another way to monitor work habits and effort.  If you have any questions email me!  Thank you for your support with learning at home. 

Our PMES Relay for Life team is now selling t-shirts to help support cancer research.  The shirts are $10 each with the option to add names on the back of the shirts in memory or celebration for an additional $3 for each name.  If you are interested in purchasing a shirt, please fill out the form from the PMES website and send in your payment (checks payable to PMES) by April 1, 2011! 
Thank you
PMES Relay for Life team

  What a FANTASTIC DAY we had today!  Our crazy hair and dress up day was TONS of FUN!  We danced, played games, and ate ice cream!  You have to see the pictures posted to see the fun. 

 

Then I received my WONDERFUL B-day present.  THANK YOU SO MUCH for the beautiful "director's chair" (aka:  the queen's chair).  I've been wanting one for at least 3 years and now I have one!  I love it!  You are all so generous in pitching in and making me feel special.    A special thank you to the wonderful room moms who came to deliver my chair and cookies for the kids!  Mrs. Milam and Mrs. Childs --YOU ROCK.

 

Then after all the fun and games, the students went right into work mode without missing a beat!  They worked hard on their writing drafts for their persuasive brochure.  Just wait until you read these.  You'll be taking them on the next best family vacation EVER!  They also worked diligently on their elapsed time test (not yet graded).  We are so fortunate to have an amazing set of third graders! 

Report cards, Friday folders, and choice cards went home today.  There should be no surprises, but please make sure to communicate with me if you have any questions or concerns.  We have already begun the 4th nine weeks and some of you may have already noticed your child changing and growing on all levels-socially, developmentally, physically, and emotionally.  Your child is in a period of strong developmental change as they enter their pre-teen stage.  This is a big milestone and a great time to research and read up on some things to expect and how to best handle the sea of change with your particular child. 

 

Next week we have class and spring pictures. Make sure your child is dress nicely!

 

Have a great weekend.....One more week to Spring Break!

So what do allergies and elapsed time have to do with each other?  Not much, except that both are areas to watch out for this week.  If allergy season affects your child, please make sure to keep an eye out for them and give them the proper medications.  This helps for a comfortable learning day.  Also,  most of the students understand elapsed time, but are so ready for spring break that they are as focused on work as usual.  Please take a few moments to help your child see the importance of focusing, especially these next few weeks.  :o)  Thanks! 

I have been reading and analyzing the students' writing in each genre for the Gergia Writing Assessment and scoring them agaist the rubrics used in the State of Georgia.  I have seen  so much growth in each and every student's writing this year.  I AM SO VERY PROUD OF THEM!  They really worked hard and gave it their all.  Make sure to praise your child for their hard work!   You'll get these results at the end of the year. 

We began our poetry unit today and many, many students began asking .....Where can I get poetry books?  Where can I buy them?.......  I am letting the children read through my personal collection, however, many want to have their own books.  I directed them to the public library and bookstores like Borders and Barnes & Noble.   Make sure to enjoy a lot of poetry with your child over the next two weeks! 

As usual, we were very busy this week with various tasks and goals. It is that time of year when students begin to feel very comfortable in their routined environment and the teacher (me) is in work mode trying to figure out how to teach the important AKS that is left with limited time.  With this routine and stress comes an increase in forgetting that the most important thing we do each and every day is the "filling of each other's (and our own) buckets".  We began the week by reading How Full is Your Bucket? For Kids, by Tom Rath.  The students and I took some time to remember how each person has an invisible bucket and that each of us can be "bucket fillers" or "bucket dippers".  Our every action and interactions affect others, thus we become a bucket filler or dipper.  It's easy to fill someones bucket--merely being kind, giving a compliment, including others, or even just smiling at someone will fill another's bucket and your own!  Take a moment everyday and ask your child to share examples of how they were bucket fillers! 

 

Speaking of filling our buckets--the students and I had our buckets filled this week with special treats!  Thank you Mrs. Milam and Mrs. Jones for the yummy goodies and treats you brought in to brighten our St. Patrick's Day! We really enjoyed it and it definitely filled our buckets.   I also want to thank the fabulous mom that added to my bucket by surprising me with coffee -my favorite.  I also want to note how our parent volunteers help fill their reading buddy's buckets each and every week! 

 

On to business with work topics.  Homework is different this week to try and relieve student work stress and soothe the spring break itch.  Please make sure students are going on line and practicing topics we are covering in class. Many children are struggling with guide words and a few could practice mastering elapsed time. These are two great skills to work on.  It's easy to know what we're doing....just check your child's agenda or look above!  Also, please make sure you are signing your child's Friday folder, choice card, and homework.  Everything is due by Tuesday and students will begin to be fined for not having items or missing signatures. Thanks!

 

Finally, I will be working on finalizing report card grades this weekend.  You should be able to access them through the portal early this week and report cards do go home Friday. 

 

 

 

...Mrs. Sondak for labeling tons of books for our classroom library! This was a big project and it took a lot of her free time.  Thank you for saving me hours of work. 

 

....Mrs. Rhine for changing out our hallway display!

 

...our parent volunteers that come in weekly to read with their reading buddy!

 

...all the parents that spent money at the school book fair this week and put more books into the hands of our students.  We have some new titles in our classroom library too thanks to the generosity of our great parents!

 

....all the parents for all the book donations this year-new and used!  I have to order more baskets to get all the books in (isn't that exciting?!).  I will be looking for a parent to help me reorganize the library once the baskets come in. 

 

 

This week students worked hard as we navigated through the hectic and crazy schedule due to half day planning and our High Touch High Tech field trip!  The students had the opportunity to explore and apply their knowledge of rocks and minerals.  They also got to take home samples they collected and sorted.  The students and I were thrilled some parents got to come in and read over the expert pieces.  Thank you for coming in!  It was a great way to start off the week!

 

Next week, students will move forward with learning.  In reading we will specifically learn about similes and metaphors.  In writing, students will wrap up their practice pieces for persuasive and write their independent pieces for the state of Georgia writing assessment.  We will wrap up our area and perimeter unit with a test early next week and move into elapsed time.  Grades will be collected through early next week and then close mid-week to give me time to prepare grades for the report cards.   

 

This weekend I will be looking at some paperless options for homework that would begin next week and take us through CRCT.  Don't be surprised if students come home with a small packet that will be worked on over the next month and turned in right before CRCT. 

 

Make sure to read over the "Memory Book" email I sent out.  Collection will begin next week.  Enjoy the sunny and warm weekend we are supposed to have!   

It's that time of year again – capture school memories with portraits by Lifetouch. Mark your calendars and get ready for Picture Day on Wednesday, March 30, 2011 (K-2) and Thursday, March 31, 2011 (3-5).

Students will receiv flyers this week (3/11) at school with all of the detailed information you need. Portraits offer casual, studio-style photography that gives students more freedom to create a look that’s truly their own. Visit www.lifetouch.com for clothing suggestions, grooming tips, program details and more. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact Janis Jones at Janis_Jones@gwinnett.k12.ga.us or 678.765.5133. Thanks!

Calling All Writers!  Calling All Readers!

Mill Creek Student Literacy Institute

July 25- 28  8:30- 11:30 a.m.

 

The 7^th Annual Mill Creek Student Writing Institute is looking for readers and writers! Do you love to write?  Do you love to read? Do something different this summer!  Publish a book!   Information about the program and registration forms can be found on your school’s website.  You don’t want to miss this opportunity to become a published author!  Space is limited! 

As parents you have done a fantastic job of making sure students bring in only healthy snacks to eat in class during the day.  Unfortunately, throughout the school the carpets are getting a lot of wear and tear (great idiom) and some newer more stringent guidelines need to be in place.  Please continue to supply your child with healthy snacks to eat in class, however, these snacks now need to be as 'messy resistant' as possible.  When choosing healthy snacks for your child please select an easy to eat and easy to clean up snack.  For example, although I love yogurt as a snack option, this is one of the messy snacks.  Once it spills on the floor the carpet is stained and difficult to clean.  Another example may be not to send your child in with popcorn if you know your child frequently gets it on the floor (which is later stepped on and ground into the carpet).  I will be reviewing the new guidelines with students on Monday.  One of the new guidelines will be that they are only allowed to eat snack between 9:40-10:00 and only at their desk.  I appreciate your support in helping students stick to the new guidelines so that all students at PMES can continue to enjoy healthy snacks during the workday.  Mrs. Farmer will be addressing new guidelines in the next Message from the Mill and we will continue to take our cues from her as we adjust to the new expectations.  Let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

We need Box Tops!  Help us try and win for this 9 weeks.  All Box Tops are due by this Friday.  Place them in a zip lock bag with your child's name, my name, and third grade. 

This week was off to a great start as we celebrated Dr. Suess week, won the door contest (thanks to Mrs. Rhine), and started shopping the Scholastic book fair.  Then, unfortunately, I got sick and was out two days at the end of the week.  I really don't like missing work and missed the kids, however, I know that they worked hard during the days I was out.  I left detailed plans for the substitute to continue teaching so the students wouldn't miss a beat.  I will be back on Monday as we start another week with an interesting schedule. 

Monday we begin with our High Touch High Tech in house field trip and then our classroom writing celebration at 11:20.  The students love sharing their writing with you and we look forward to your visit.  Student's expert pieces will be out as we walk around taking turns reading fellow student's writing and leaving compliments for them.  Tuesday through Thursday, grades levels will take turns having half day planning and our schedules will be altered.  If you are planning to visit your child for lunch or have a buddy in class you work with, please email first before coming in this week to check on our altered scheduled. 

We will continue to work on persuasive writing, possessive nouns, abbreviations, and area/perimter.  In reading, we will begin our unit on poetry by first learning about figurative language (idioms, similes, metaphors).  So use as many idioms as you can with your child this week and see if he/she can determine the meaning from how you use it.  Two head are better than one! 

 

Thank you to Mrs. Rhine for purchasing some books for the classroom library from our book fair.  The library is currently getting all the recently donated books added and will hopefully recieve some first aid in the form of reorganization and basket relabeling this week. 

As we move closer to Spring break and CRCT you may see a decrease in homework volume.  Use this time to make sure your child is reading a lot and maybe even try some of the CRCT practice tests listed under "Parent Links".  Make the practice test taking as positive as possible.  I always tell the students that errors are opportunities for learning.  If your child is making a mistake, work together to decide if it's based on lack of knowledge of that particular skill or could better test taking strategies have avoided the mistake.  If we understand the problem then finding the solution and applying it becomes a much easier task.  Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns. 

I will be wrapping up grades for the third nine weeks soon, so don't forget to look at current grades and effort in work from the Friday folder to see how your child is progressing.  Many, many students are really working on their focusing skills and improving.   

 

I hope you all had fun at the Carnival!  I enjoyed seeing many of you there!  Stay dry the rest of the weekend. 

 

You are invited to the 2 ^nd  annual Sci/TECH Night at Puckett’s Mill: Thursday, March 24 ^th , 6:00 – 8:00 PM .  The night will begin at 6:00 with a “Going Green” show by Arthur Atsma.   After that your family will rotate through three self-selected events while learning about the brain, astronomy, bugs & insects, the science of fencing, tortoises, chocolate making, first aid, healthy eating and much more!  Check out the brochure on the PMES website to choose your learning walk for the night!  We’ll see you there!

....for helping us win the Dr. Seuss door contest and helping our class get a free book for the classroom library!  The kids were very excited to win and getting to shop first at the book fair.  Also, thank you for purchasing some books for our classroom library.  I can't wait to get them labeled and put on the shelf with the help of my book volunteers (Mrs. Sondak and Mrs. Jones). 

Parents don’t miss the chance to have a Friday night to yourselves.  Take some time to see a movie, shop  or have a relaxing dinner out while your child has fun watching “Despicable Me” at PMES under the supervision of our wonderful PMES teachers.  Students will have fun and receive pizza and a drink all for only $15 per student. ($10 for each additional sibling)  You will be receiving flyers this week in your Friday Folders.  Thanks for supporting Relay For Life!

Reminder:  Puckett’s Mill will be having their annual carnival on Saturday, March 5^th from 12-4.  It will be a rain or shine event.  Wristbands will be sold at the door for $15.00. Tickets will  be sold 2 for $1.00.  We hope to see everyone there.  
 
Thanks!

Can you believe February's end is quickly approaching?  It seems like time goes by faster and faster.  The students have been working extremely hard and it's showing in their grades!  Grades on assignments made a major improvement this week!  Thank you for your efforts in making that happen and remember to praise your child for improvements!  Your encouragement will go a long way in ensuring that they continue to take learning into their own hands by focusing, listening, participating, and asking questions! 

 

The students want to showcase their amazing published works on their "expert pieces".  We will hold our author celebration on Monday, March 7th at 11:20.  We would love for you to join us as we read each others work and compliment the authors.  Maybe you can then stay and have a special lunch with your child before returning to work.  I'll be happy to write a note to "excuse your absence from work" for that period of time.  Let me know!

 

The students did an amazing job on their reference unit and will take their measurement test on Tuesday.  A lot of emphasis this week has been placed on using strategies we already know to support good thinking habits and arrive at the right answers. As you continue to review your child's work, make sure to emphasize the process that went into the work (showing work and going back to find answers) and not just focus on the final grade.  Stressing the process will dramatically increase work habits now for continued future sucess.  Next week we will begin many new units of study:  area, perimeter, persuasive writing, point of view(3 days) then leading into figurative language and reading poetry.

I could not get by without help from all my wonderful volunteers!  They help make our days better!

 

Mrs. Sondak ..............Thanks for all your hard work on the "at home" projects you're working on, especially helping out with getting our books one step closer to the classroom library!

 

Mrs. Rhine.........Our Dr. Seuss door is AMAZING!  The students kept saying how great it looks and they are really very proud of it.  They love that their pictures are on it too!  Thanks for being the creative one and freeing up some of my time. 

 

Mrs. Child's.......always refilling the candy jar with yummy treats and coming in on Fridays so the kids can shop and spend their hard earned money!

 

Mrs. Milam.........for always thinking about the kids and coming in do help them enjoy Valentine's Day!

 

Mrs. Martin, Mrs. Rhine, and Mrs. Jones for coming in every week and reading with their buddies.  It really helps and makes all the difference in the world!  You guys are great!

 

All my parents are FANTASTIC and help out daily by being supportive, caring and loving parents!  Your constant involvement through time with your kids, reading my weekly messages, talks with me, and sending in of supplies for projects and goodies are greatly appreciated and make our year special, fun, and memorable.  THANK YOU!  

 

She wrote a "Soaring with Kindness" note for our class.  It read:

 

To: Mrs. Sotolongo's class

They are so nice.  If I need a buddy or help with something, there are like 10 people trying to help me and it's so hard just picking one.  I love Ms. Sotolongo's class. When I came the first day I was shy, but I felt better in less than a minute because of how fast they welcomed me.  If I had a choice for what grade I wanted to be in I'd stay there forever.  Love, Alex

 

Alex thank you for recognizing what awesome amazing students we have in our class!

....to help me get donated and new books circulating in my classroom library.  I have a nice pile of donated books (mostly leveled) and a whole box of new books that need leveling.  Once the books are leveled (I'll show you how) I need to have labels made and printed for them.  They then need to go into my library, which may involve some reorganizing. 

I keep meaning to get to this project, but time is not on my side.  If you are willing to take on this project please let me know.  I would love to have the books in and reorganized so the kids have some more choices.  [I am perfectly okay with you leveling and labeling the books at home--I'll provide the labels, so that you can work in the comfort of your own home.] 

Let me know if you're interested!  Just email!

The groundhog predicted an early spring (thankfully), but make sure your child hasn't caught spring fever yet!  We are in the middle of the 3rd nine weeks and learning and behavior expectations are rising.  We are working diligently throughout each day to meet the expectation of understanding and mastering all the necessary grade level AKS. Students are receiving less behavior warnings, as they are expected to follow directions the first time given and meet clear learning expectations both independently and in groups. This is a great time to check in on your child's grades to see how they are doing. 

Many of you will notice that the reading grade is lower this nine weeks than you are accustomed to seeing.  There is a good reason for this. Students' reading level accounts for 60% of the reading grade.  This grade is determined by conducting a one-to-one reading assessment with an oral discussion to evaluate comprehension.  40% of the reading grade is based on paper and pencil tasks.  I have not entered reading level grades for students who are reading at or above grade level at this point in time.  I want to accurately show how students are performing in reading comprehension assessments on paper verses their actual ability as tested orally with me.  I continue to work with students on implementing strategies in reading that support working accurately and carefully.  As you review your child's work this week, please continue to monitor effort.  Is your child going back in reading passages to find answers and clues?  Are they completing their math thinking on paper to minimize errors?  Are they adding and subtracting carefully?  Have they mastered their multiplication facts?

 

To help your child stay focused on school there are many things you can do.  Here are some suggestions:  ensure enough sleep nightly, make sure they eat a good breakfast, send them with healthy snacks to eat in class, talk to them about school daily by asking open-ended questions (not questions they can answer with yes/no), and spend 10-15 a night reading a book aloud to him/her (they will love it). 

 

Next week students will wrap up their unit on reference materials and begin to publish their informational writing pieces.  Be on the lookout for a writing celebration date.  The students have worked very hard on revising their writing to include many details and elaboration.  I am very proud of their focused efforts in writing.  In math, we will continue to convert customary units and begin to measure using the metric system. 

 

Enjoy the weekend and warm weather!

I was happy to receive lots of chocolate and cards from all my students. 

Students began today using the ruler to measure to the nearest 1/4 inch.  This includes 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4.  This can be a tricky concept and many students were "getting stuck".  We will continue to work on it in class, but it might help if the students played some of the on line measurement games this week.  I added a few that help with reading a ruler.  The more fun they have the better!  Thanks for all you do!

...for the yummy donuts and all the fun decorating our Valentine's Day boxes!   The kids enjoyed the break. 

THANK YOU  to all the parents that sent in Jolly Ranchers.  We got so many donations I started to lose track of who sent the goodies in.  They were vary popular (and now gone).  I am pretty sure the sick and non-sick got their hands on them!   However, the candy made everyone feel better and more comfortable while in class. 

 

The students had a lot of fun during their game board celebration!  The next one is planned and the calendar.  Thanks to Mrs. Martin for updating our hallway display!  She put up the great file folder reports students worked on before the winter break.  I finally got through them all and was very impressed at how much work and detail went into the project. 

 

Learning continues at full speed and we continue to learn through the workshop model, using 10 minute mini-lessons, buddy work, and independent work.  We spent some time this week revisiting workshop expectations and discussing the importance of engaged learning and time on task.  We also continue to discuss work accuracy and many students are doing a great job of working consistently, carefully, and accurately.  Others need a little more convincing that this is the way to approach work the first time around. 

 

In reading this week we began to discuss when and how to use different types of reference materials.  The students are struggling a little with the differences between a table of contents and the index.  As you use textbooks or other reference materials at home with your child, take time to review these.  There are also some reference games listed in under "Student Links".  In writing the kids are working hard to revise their drafts.  The stress this week has been on how authors constantly revise their drafts to improve them.  In math we began measurement, with a focus on really understanding units, standard and non-standard.  We also introduced customary and metric measurement units and when to use them. Next week we will move to understanding how to read the customary ruler (inches) to the nearest 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 mark.

 

Finally, Valetine's Day is Monday.  The students will work through the day, except for a small break before lunch to decorate boxes and pass out Valentine's cards.  Our room moms are also bringing in a treat for the kids!  Thank you for the treats and those of you that sent in goodies to decorate!  Have a great weekend and Happy Valentine's Day! 

I have just added under "Parent Links" a link containing many practice CRCT exams in pdf.  There are many sample tests for each subject.   Let me know if you have any questions.

If you have any large used t-shirts that could be used in art to protect clothing, please send it in.  The current ones are becoming unusable.  Thanks!

Thank you for attending conferences and being so positive!  I hope you found the summary about your child's learning style and "Habits of Mind" informative and helpful.  I also want to thank you for your support at home in reviewing school rules and expectations with your child.  The students returned this week more focused and ready to learn, leaving all the distractions behind.  Many of you will see marked improvements in the choice cards. 

The theme for the nine weeks seems to be "Increasing Focus & Accuracy".  I will continue to stress upon students the importance of striving for accuracy in their work habits.  I know as we reinforce this consistently between home and school the students will begin to improve their work habits by reading directions and questions carefully, answering responsibly, and double checking answers.  Spending February and March on work habits will enable the students to really show their best efforts in April testing. 

Speaking of testing, I AM SO PROUD OF THE STUDENTS GAINS IN READING!  Reading levels continue to rise and students are increasing their use of thinking strategies when they read.  Next week we will begin to look at the various types of reference materials, when they should be used, and how to properly use them.  This will be a two week endeavor.  There are many fun links I've added to the student link page for students to use and reinforce learning about reference material. 

In mathematics, we wrapped up our fractions and decimals unit and begin our unit on measurement.  We will specifically learn about linear measurement.  At the end of the unit students will be able to identify the differences between customary and metric measurements, know which unit of measure is used in different scenarios, convert units of measure (inches to feet, meters to kilometers, etc...), and apply their knowledge of measurement to solve various types of world problems.  Shortly after this unit we will explore perimeter, area, and elapsed time.  We will be spending a very short amount of class time on elapsed time.  It would be great if students began reviewing telling time to the minute with you.  The best way to do this is having them wear a watch (non-digital) and practice telling the time.  You can also jump start learning elapsed time by asking questions like:  Dinner will be in 25 minutes.  What time will dinner be ready? 

Be on the lookout soon for an additional page added to the website that will have power points to help review 3rd grade concepts.

CRCT Tip:  All students have been issued math and social studies books, which they can take home if they have not done so already.  These are a great resource for review and even contain practice CRCT tests!  This is a great way to review and reading from the social studies book can count toward reading time! 

Have a fantastic weekend! 

Conferences today went great!  I loved meeting will all the parents.  Thank you for being so wonderful and supportive.  :o) 

I want to thank all the parents that came today. I enjoyed meeting with you and appreciate your support in making sure your child continues to succeed to their best ability.  Please accept my apologies for running late on some of the meetings and thank you for being generous with  your time. 

...that donated some more goodies for the school store.  The kids and I really appreciate it! 

Believe it or not this is the first week students had to go to school for two consecutive weeks and we're at the end of January!  Many students are right on track-working hard and focusing on learning new materials.  Unfortunately others struggled this week with making responsible choices that at many times interrupted the learning environment of other learners.  Please take time this week to review the choice card with your child and discuss the three school rules of being ready, respectful, and responsible.  I am sure that all the students will be back on track next week as we march through and continue learning new AKS. 

 

As I reviewed work from this week, including papers that I graded tonight which are not in this weekend's Friday folder, there is a decrease in good work habits.  When reviewing your child's work make sure to focus on their work habits and thinking process rather than the final grade.  Things to look for include: reading questions carefully, answering all questions asked, skipped questions, clarity in explanations, and showing how they arrived at answers (especially in math for word problems) to name a few. 

 

There are different things we can do to support the students in increasing positive work habits.  It is important that your child get enough rest and are not overburdened with too many extracurricular activities.  Talk with them frequently about their active role in learning.  Praise students for being responsible in work habits by saying things like, "I can tell you read questions carefully because you highlighted key words."  Finally, set reachable goals for work habits and create a reward and/or consequence system that is directly tied to their level of effort on weekly work.   In class we have taken time to discuss the importance of good work habits and students are beginning to miss recess to fix careless mistakes in work.  I hope that after minimal days of having to rework careless errors, students will be more motivated to take their time and work well on assignments when they are first given.

 

Next week, we will wrap up our unit on text structures by working with cause and effect.  Students will begin to draft their expert pieces and many conferencing points will revolve around how to organize multiple paragraphs under appropriate headings.  A big push will also be on elaborating details.  In math,we will wrap up our unit in fractions and decimals by taking our UNIT TEST. 

 

I want to thank you, my wonderful parents, for being on top of your child's learning at home.  Most of the reading logs came back this week meeting all the requirements!  I look forward to meeting with you in conferences this week to discuss your child's progress.  We will look at current grades, test scores from CoGAT and ITBS, discuss how work habits directly impact and make a difference in "meeting or exceeding" expectations, literacy progress, and identify some "Habits of Mind" that can help guide increased productivity.    

Thank you for supporting homework completion, practice, and learning at home.  Students are doing a great job with completing and turning in the HW packet. 

 

This week there seemed to be a lot of confusion over the new reading log.  I reviewed new expectations with students again and let them know that the reading log is a very important part of the class homework.  For homework to be complete for the week, the reading log must meet all of the following requirements and be completely filled out:

 

·   Title of the book, author, and genre

·   5 nights of reading (five different days documented)

·   5 parent initials-one for each required night

·   Pages read by documenting the beginning and ending page of each session (i.e.  pg. 32-60)

·   30 minutes of reading for each session required.  This can be documented by start and end time (i.e. 7:05-7:56) or the amount of time spent reading (46 minutes)

 

Students should read one book at a time.  This will allow them to see a book through to completion quicker and give them a sense of pride, raising their self-esteem.  It also allows students to really “get into” a book-the storyline and character.  Extra reading logs are in class and students that read more than two books in the week can get more logs.  Students are encouraged to read the same book at home and school when possible.  Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns regarding the reading log requirements or expectations.  Thank you for all your support and all you do.

 

The math answers will begin to be posted on line again.  I’m sorry for the few instances it was not up for students to check. 

I will send conference dates and times this weekend or during the week.  It should be the same day of the week and time as our November conference.  I look forward to seeing you soon!

We had a very busy week as we jumped right in where we left off before our winter storm break.  The students came back ready to work and engage in rigorous learning.  As always, I am extremely proud of my students and there attentiveness to hard work, good teamwork, and amazing peer relationships.  Students did receive their awards for the second nine weeks.  We took pictures and I was glad to see many happy faces.  All the students made a big jump in grades for the second nine weeks.  This is a great testament to them and the full support they receive from their families.  YOU ROCK

 

In reading and writing this week, students became experts in understanding chronological order.  Students used this text structure to better understand non fiction text and also practiced their author skills by writing a sequence paragraph that utilize appropriate transitional words.  We also took time to practice previewing nonfiction text and how to get the brain ready to read informational articles.  Students learned to ask questions or making predictions by reading the first sentence in paragraphs.  Students also practice reading paragraphs and quickly identifying the main idea.  Stopping after each paragraph allows them to stop and think about what they are reading.  This is a wonderful segway into our week next week when I will begin testing all the students to measure their reading progress from our last meeting in November.  Testing at the beginning of the year used fiction texts, however, the focus this time around will reading, interpreting, and communicating information learned form a nonfiction text.  Our minilesson will continue to reinforce understand text structure as we will focus on compare and constrast. 

 

We continue to deepen our understanding of the English language using mentor sentences.  Students continue to look at grammatically correct and interesting sentences to learn about parts of speech and rules for writing.  At this point of the year, students should be experts in identifying nouns, pronouns, verbs, and adjectives.  Adverbs have been introduced and will be focused on soon.  Students should also be experts at the four types of sentences (declarative, imperative, interrogative, and exclamatory) as well as identify the subject and predicate.  If you find your child struggling with these skills please work with them closely when completing the homework.  Many times a little one to one with parents makes a big difference. 

 

We wrapped up our miniunit on writing a well constructed paragraph with main idea, details, elaboration, and a closing sentence.  Students did amazing and will transfer this knowledge into writing as we begin our "expert pieces".

 

In math we spent the week trying to fully understand that fractions are less than one whole and solve various real world problems by drawing pictures and writing fraction number sentences.  Fractions are often difficult for students to grasp when it moves from the just shaded shaped.  To support understanding of fractions, make sure to point it out in your daily routines (cooking, driving less than a mile, amount of space thier shoes take up in the hall closet, etc....).  Next week we will continue with problem solving and begin to look at decimals to the tenth place value.  Students will learn how decimals and fractions are both parts of wholes.  I added a quick easy to read article under parent sites that gives some good ideas for supporting fractions at home. 

 

A quick big THANK YOU to Mrs. Childs for coming in and running the classroom store!  The kids love to shop and are always eager for your visit.  

 

I hope everyone has a fun-filled and safe weekend.  I can't to see the students again on Monday! 

Our schedule for learning is now under forms. See "Learning Schedule".

It's almost like vacation all over again-almost.  I hope everyone is enjoying the extra time to unwind, relax, and bond.  I'm sure the kids are loving the snow/ice and having fun, then winding down with a good book, some hot chocolate, and some fun internet games that support learning! 

 

 

 

Happy New Year and welcome back!  The students were ABSOLUTELY AMAZING this week!  They returned to school and jumped right into engaged learning activities.  As we begin the third nine weeks, students will be engaged in more levels of independent and buddy/group activities.  As students are engaged in independent and focused learning, they will continue to increase their levels of achievement. 

In reading we continue our study of non-fiction text.  We focused on various text structures this week and discussed how to preview and skim factual passages using text features, clue words, and main ideas.  Understanding how the author organized the passage helps our brain get ready to process and understand information.  Next week we will focused on various types of chronological order (timelines, how-to's likes recipes, etc...).  We will also move our focus in word study instruction towards understanding how prefixes and suffixes effect base words.   

In writing, we have take a two week break from specific genre writing to spend time to fully understand the structure of a paragraph.  Understand paragraph structure will support the students in reading and writing non-fiction better.  The students really did a FANTASTIC job writing their responses to literature.  If you haven't had a moment to see the writing posted outside of our classroom, you should try and come by for a peek.  I can't wait to see what our expert writers will create when we begin our "Expert" writing pieces. 

 

In math, we moved into our study of fractions and decimals.  As always, the focus is on students really understanding fractions and not just memorizing rules.  A good foundation in understanding fractions this year will make understanding intermediate math (equivalent fractions, simplifing fractions, etc...) much easier. Next week we will spend a great deal of time solving word problems by drawing pictures and writing number sentences to match our solution.  

Friday folders are full of things this week.  A few things to look for:  report card, in-house field trip form, a letter from our counselor-Mrs. Smith, Scholastic flyer for ordering, and thank you cards from me.  Make sure to take your time reviewing the items and then sign and return the folder with any necessary paperwork.  Your orders on Scholastic (online) are greatly appreciated!  

Finally, I want to thank each and every parent for the gift card I received for the holidays that accompanied the book boxes you already purchased and gave me.  You are all so generous and I appreciate your kindness and support!  You and the students really do make my job fun and worth all the hard work! THANK YOU VERY MUCH!  

Reading just right books is crucial to growing as a reader.  Reading only books that are too easy does not allow your child to increase his/her fluency, comprehension, or vocabulary.  Reading books that are challenging forces the brain to overwork and growth is inhibited.  A just right book has just the right level of "challenge" for your child allowing him or her to progress at a steady and constant rate.  For parents it can be difficult to know what is just right for your child.  Books from the library and bookstore don't come leveled, so how do you choose?  I added a link under parent sites called "Does my child have a just right book?".  I hope this provides you with a guide to help you make book choices with your child.  Your opinion, vote, and voice matter!  If you find you need some additional support I will love to meet with you -- just let me know.

The students worked very hard this second nine weeks and I am very proud of their energy and effort.  Many students raised scores from the first nine weeks and continue to grow as learners.  The geometry test was given and graded today.  Students did extremely well! 

Thank you for supporting studying at home!

 

Students enjoyed many, many treats today like donuts and ice cream to celebrate Emma-Kate's and John's birthday, as well as, yummy cookie treats from the Sondak family. Many students also celebrated their passing of the 5-minute timed test with candy bars and eating upstairs with me.  Continued fluency in multiplication is essential, although I will not continue the timed tests in the classroom.  Those students who still need to work on fluency may come to me at any time this year and tell me they want to take the 5-minute drill.  I will happily reward students who pass the test with candy bars! 

Friday folders did go home today, but the choice cards did not.  All students will begin the New Year with E's and a clean slate!  Learning will continue to be our focus upon our return as we hit the ground running in all subject areas.  You can preview the upcoming units in the "Curriculum Focus" area above.  Grades were posted and should be viewable on the parent portal.  I will finalize grades the Monday I return to work and reports will go home that first week back! 

Students LOVED their stocking gifts and were thrilled to go through them today.  Thank you for making their holiday month special.  THANK YOU for all the very generous kind words and additional gifts I received, in addition to the group gift of the book boxes plus my gift certificate.  Each and every gift is deeply appreciated and I thank you for the time you take to think of me and my family.  I wish you and your family a very joyous and healthy holiday break!  Happy Holidays!

 

 

 

Our fantastic room moms did a wonderful job organizing the party, with no help from me I might add.  I want to thank them for taking the extra effort and time in preparing and organizing today's event.  I know it is a lot of work.  I know they appreciate how easy all the parents make things for them by consistently supporting all their plans!  I also want to thank all the great parents that helped keep things running smooth and worked the stations.  All the students were engaged and really had a good time!  It was nice to sit back and watch the kids and parents enjoy the fun events.  THANK YOU for the super gift card that accompanied my book holder present.  You are all extremely generous and kind! 

These are for students and parents to use as a review.  I do not expect them back as it is merely another way to support understanding the items tested this week in geometry.  Let me know if you have questions!

This week we wrapped up interim testing and as soon as the test items are released I’ll be able to analyze scores and make individual student plans for remediation.  Remediation will continue side-by-side with new learning upon our return in January.  Work habits will be closely monitored in January to help students understand the connection between focus, hard work, and earning grades that are representative of what they understand and know. 

 

Over the winter break students are strongly encouraged to read a minimum of 30 minutes to an hour every day!  Reading just right books is critical for student growth in reading.  If students are reading 45 minutes to an hour a day they should be able to read about 3 just right books a week.  If students can’t read at least 3 books a week, then they are reading books that are too difficult.  Remember, reading is more about comprehension and fully understanding the text and not just about word recognition.  Also, please encourage your child to play games that support math fluency in multiplication. 

 

Next week, we have the Winter Party and students are excited for parents to come and join in on the fun!  We will be wrapping up our response to literature unit by writing a second piece and their first published pieces will be decorating our walls for you to see on Wednesday.  We will also wrap up the geometry unit.  This week we focused on quadrilaterals.   Quadrilaterals may have multiple names.  Next week we will learn about circles, congruency, and symmetry.  Make sure to check out the power point on line under math.  It is a great review for end of unit test on Thursday.  On Friday morning we will watch the much anticipated Because of Winn Dixie movie.   Thank you for sending in the permission forms! 

The stockings are filling up with wonderful goodies!  Thank you again for all the fabulous donations!  A big thank you to the volunteers for their continued support with students and in helping me getting the donated books leveled!  Now just labels and on the shelf they go! 

 

I will work diligently to have all grades posted before the break so that you may see the end of nine weeks grades! 

 

Upcoming in January:

 

Reading:  Introduction to Text Structure [beginning with chronological order]

Writing:  Expert writing pieces

Grammar:  Quotation marks

Math:  Fractions and Decimals

 

Under "Parent Sites" to the left I have added a link called "Just Right books for your child.  Refer the reading level I gave you at conferences and use the list to help you.  If you need more support email me.  I'll be glad to help!  The more your child reads "Just Right" books the better reader he/she will become.  Students should be reading just one chapter book at a time and we will also begin to use this rule in class starting in January. 

After spending a week with friends and family and relaxing from school work, students jumped right into test taking.  For the first time, students took interim exams on the computer.  I will be analyzing results to find students’ strengths and weaknesses.  Upon our return in January, students will be pulled for small groups to reteach/relearn concepts that were already taught and need mastery. 

 

To maximize student learning, I will be working on some changes in the schedule.  Subject times will be rearranged; however, lunch, recess, and specials times will remain exactly the same.  This week we continued with our response to literature unit and the students are working hard!  We hope to put up our book recommendations around the media center to encourage others to read good books!  In math we began geometry and continue to practice with multiplication fluency.  At home students should continue to memorize facts and geometry terms.  In geometry students will be tested the week before the break and will be expected to know and understand definitions of terms and application of knowledge.  In reading we began our unit on non-fiction texts.  We reviewed genres of non-fiction and began talking about features.  Next week we will continue with understanding features of non-fiction text and understanding text structure.  Learning about these components and previewing expository text before reading, will help readers understand fact-filled passages better.  

 

The stocking incentive is effective and students are hard at work and busy.  They are also busy wondering what is in their stocking each day since I won’t let them peek inside.  However, if they are learning or picking up any habits from their mischievous elves, they might be sneaking in a peek or two.  I am enjoying hearing all about the trouble these little elves get themselves into.  I wonder what Santa thinks about them letting loose. 

 

Thank you for all the book donations!  I got to keep a lot of them.  Now if I can just find time to code, label them, and organize them into the classroom library so they can get into my new beautiful book boxes!

Dear Parents,

I wanted to take a few minutes to express my gratitude for all the wonderful things you have done for me this year.  All of you have been very generous with me and the class.  I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for getting the folder/notebook holders.  You have taken a huge load off my shoulders by supplying me with them.  I started to use them immediately.  They help keep the kids organized and of course make my room look great!  You have been absolutely wonderful and it is a pleasure to teach each and every one of your kids.

Thank you again,

Ms. Sotolongo

The students had a BLAST today with the movie, popcorn, drinks, and tons of candy (thank you for the Twizzler donation and Starburst-Anna & J.T.)!  The pizza was plentiful and delicious!  Also, I LOVE MY BOOK BINDER AND BOOK HOLDERS!  They are fabulous!!!!!!  THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!  The students love them too!  I will send out a picture, so you can see them!  Have a wonderful and restful Thanksgiving break! 

The long awaited Thanksgiving holiday is upon us.  The students have grown by leaps and bounds this year by committing to high standards and expectations.  They have worked extremely hard and deserve a nice break. 

The students took their second division unit test yesterday and did a SPECTACULAR job!  I was extremely impressed!  All work completed through this Thursday will be in the Friday folder. Remember to celebrate effort and hard work (not the final grade)!  Each and every one of the students commits to learning and improvement and I am very proud of them. 

Upon our return we will begin our geometry unit, which is heavy in vocabulary.  The key is daily studying and application.  The math tab has a power point to help guide studying at home and the student links section has some games for the kids.  "Parent Sites" to the left also has a link for parents.  We will also continue to take the 5-minute timed test 2x per week.  All students are expected to memorize their multiplication facts, which should lead to passing the drill before the winter break.  In reading, we will begin our non-fiction unit of study.  Students will continue to read "just right" fiction chapter books and incorporate some non-fiction text into their daily classroom reading.  In writing, students will begin drafting their "Response to Literature" pieces. These three weeks are full of learning and high expectations, which is difficult after our week off and before the extended winter break.  Thank you for supporting the extra classroom incentive plan by donating money and stocking items to reward daily excellent behavior.  It proves to be very successful every year and I truly appreciate your continued support and donations! 

Students will be participating in a GCPS assessment beginning the Tuesday after Thanksgiving break.  Each student will participate in taking one subject area test per day on the computer on 11/30, 12/1, 12/2, 12/7, and 12/8. The results of this assessment are used to determine areas of strength in learning this year, as well as, determine areas needing more support. 

Finally, BOOKS, BOOKS, BOOKS!  Thank you for the book donations.  Those appropriate for our classroom will be labeled and put on our shelves.  All others will be used by appropriate grade levels.  Thank you for helping PMES teachers in building their classroom libraries.  Speaking of classroom libraries, I can never have enough books for our students.  Please consider purchasing books as gifts for the holidays for each person on your holiday list.  Purchasing through Scholastic will GREATLY benefit our class.  All coupons, bonus points, and incentive books given to me will go directly onto our shelves.  Our wonderful kids are burning through the books!  I will close the December Scholastic order on December 7th to allow enough time for arrival before the holidays. 

Enjoy the holiday and make sure the students read, read, read "just right" books. Remember to record reading on the log given this week!

Parents don’t miss the chance to have a Friday night to shop for the holidays or have a relaxing dinner out while your child has fun watching “How To Train A Dragon” at PMES under the supervision of our wonderful PMES teachers.  Students will have fun and receive pizza and a drink all for only $15 per student. ($10 for each additional sibling)  You will be receiving flyers this week in your Friday Folders.  Thanks for supporting Relay For Life!

Scroll down to the bottom of the page and make sure you know about our class celebration!

Thank you for wonderful parent conferences this week.  I met with all of my parents!  I enjoyed meeting with everyone.  As you reflect on our meeting, please let me know if questions or concerns arise.  I truly enjoy working with the students.  They are amazing because of the amazing job you do with them and in how you support learning.  We have four more weeks of learning before the end of the of the second nine weeks.  I really don't know how time is passing so quickly. 

Next week we will wrap up our fiction and introduction to division units.  Upon our return we will begin units on non-fiction and geometry.  We will also spend the three remaining weeks wrapping up our "Response to Literature" unit.  Over the break please continue to ensure that your child is practicing their multiplication facts and spending a lot of time reading!  If your child know their multiplication facts faster than you then you're on the right track.  Students should also read between 45 minutes to an hour a day over the break.  On Friday students will be celebrating all their hard work with "Movie/Popcorn/Pizza" celebration.  I want to thank the Boicu family for offering to supply delicious pizza from their very own restuarant! 

We are in the Box Tops lead for 3rd grade and the students are very excited.  Please continue to collect, cut, and send in Box Tops as it raises funds for our school and the students get an ice cream party!

Please remember all the wonderful events taking place at PMES-coat drive, used book drive, toy drive, and MORE!  Also, don't miss out on purchasing an autographed Carmen Deedy book!  The Library Dragon and Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach are two of my favorites!  I can't wait to see you at Literacy Night on December 2nd. 

I submitted the November order!  December's order form is still open.  Don't forget to purchase books for the winter break while also supporting our classroom with book coupons and bonus points.  All points are used to buy books for your kids this year!

Take some time to make more room on your bookshelves.  PMES is collecting books for our classrooms.  Students should bring in all books they don't want to hold onto, even if it's for younger kids.  Books appropriate for our class will be labeled for our students to use and other books will be given to appropriate grade levels.  Thanks for giving!

On Monday , all clubs will take group pictures for the yearbook.  This includes Lit Blitz, Environmental Club, etc...If there is a club t-shirt they should wear it for the photo!

We have had a very busy week and the students continue to work hard.  I am very proud of everyone's increase in focus and effort    Transitions have also begun to turn around and become much better.  I blame the rain and forced indoor recess this week for some bumps in transtions the last two days.  [Blame it on the rain.]  We have two more weeks of intense learning before we embark on our much earned Thanksgiving break.  Next week is early release (12:15) on Wednesday and Thursday, so students will have new routines for these two days.  I look forward to meeting with you to discuss your child's progress so far this year.  I will work diligently to keep my meetings to 15 minutes and run on time. 

 

Our focus next week for reading is to understand the difference between fact and opinion.  We will also be reviewing various fiction strategies and skills as we wrap up our unit on fiction.  After the fall break we will begin our unit on understanding non-fiction.  During writing, we will focus on how to write a good story summary for response to literature.  In mathematics, the students are doing a great job with understanding division and we will continue to explore understanding remainders.  I stress the "understanding" remainders as we will not begin long division until much later this year.  We will also practice mixed word problems making sure students can differentiate between multiplication and division.  Students will take an introduction to division test (no remainders) either Thursday or Friday of this week.  I always remain flexible on the date, as I want to make sure the students are ready to earn high marks.

 

I want to thank those of you that have taken the on line survey.  I will be reviewing and reflecting on results soon.  Please make sure to take the survey if you haven't had a chance yet.  I value your opinions and input! 

 

Finally, make sure to pre-order your books for our author visit by Carmen Deedy.  Pre-ordering will ensure you an autographed copy of her book(s).  She is a wonderful author and storyteller.  The students will love hearing her read and will get to interact with her.  I am not just saying this because the author and I share a Cuban background either.    Have a great weekend.    

Do you have boxes of old children's books that your kids have outgrown lying around the house? Do you have bookshelves filled with books your kids no longer read? Well...send them to school!

 

In honor of our upcoming Literacy Night on December 2nd, Puckett's Mill is having a used book drive. As you know, our students spend much of their day reading self-selected texts. In order to provide them with a wider range of reading materials, we need your help! Please send in any used books that you have around the house and we will use these to fill our classroom teachers’ libraries. 

 

As an extra incentive to clean out those basements and attics, every student that brings in 5 or more books will be entered in a drawing to win a personalized copy of Carmen Deedy's delightful book The Library Dragon. Hurry-drive ends December 2nd!!!!!

Please consider completing the easy 10-question survey [The link is under "Parent Sites"].  It is password protected and all parents should have received an email with the password.  Only one survey should be completed per household, so please complete this with your spouse.  All answers are anonymous and I value your feedback.  Please take time to add comments or suggestions as you feel necessary.  I will close the survey on November 12th.  If you have any questions please let me know.  Thank you for your time and energy. 

Students should be reading an hour a day during the Thanksgiving and Winter breaks.  Please consider placing November and December book orders.  I've entered two separate closing dates for each month's order so that they each arrive before the holiday breaks begin. Every parent order earns me a $3 coupon for a book that will go into the classroom library, as well as, a free chapter book.  I also earn bonus points that directly correlates to the amount of money you spend.  I use all boust points for the purchase of classroom books!  Also, before placing orders I consider student interests so our library is filled with books of interest.  Thank you for supporting literacy in our classroom.

The students looked great in their costumes!  They were excellently behaved all day.  The substitute they had in the morning was extremely impressed with how wonderful they were.   The students got to shop this morning while I was out thanks to Mrs. Childs.  I heard a lot of money was spent.   In the afternoon, the students really enjoyed all the specials treats and goodies.  Mrs. Milam came and brought yummy Krispy Kreme Halloween donuts for lunch to accompany the goody bags.  I want to thank all the parents that joined us upstairs for lunch and help us take pictures.  A big thank you goes out to Mrs. Rhine and Mrs. Matthews for coming to help in the afternoon.  I appreciated the help from Mrs. Matthews and the students enjoyed making the mosaic pumpkins.  They were also really excited about the pumpkins they were given.  THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!  Enjoy the weekend! 

... Ms. Matthews fore the WONDERFUL pictures. 

....all the parents that sent me little Halloween goodies!  :o)

....Sarah and her family for thinking of my family this week.  Hayden loves his bear!

....Sara for the cute pencils for the treasure box.....I think we'll pass them out tomorrow.

....Ms. Childs for running the Decision Dollar store.

....my fabulous parent helpers.

DON'T FORGET TO SEND MS. SONDAK PICTURES!!!!!!!!!

It was an interesting week as we tried to get back into our "normal rountine" after testing.  The students are really working on their transitions and have ended the week strong with much smoother transitions.  We will continue to monitor and apply our new plan to ensure continued success.  I am also trying Mrs. Brock's magic word "PICKLE" (and it seems to really be magic)! I'm am thrilled at their efforts to improve and how much they care and want to succeed!  I have the best group of third graders EVER!

 

I hope you enjoyed joining us for our Author Celebration.  The students were EXTREMELY EXCITED and OVERJOYED to share their writing with you.  We will make sure to invite you back after our third writing unit.  We will begin our second unit on response to literature next week.  I hope to produce between two to three published pieces before the winter holidays creep up on us.  There is so much transpiring during the month of December, including their Winter Party, that having an author celebration then would be a bit chaotic.  I will be sending home your child's "Published Writing Folder" for you to see on Monday along with their Reading Workshop Binders.  I won't send them home this weekend due to Halloween and thought it would be best to review them Monday and Tuesday (no school), with an expected return date of Wednesday. 

 

We began division this week in a HUGE way as we all jumped right into problem solving on day number 1.  It was a huge success and many students seem like pro's after just two days.   I know they will continue to exceed my already very high expectations.  Maybe "Santa" will be extra kind with them this year (after all it is a big transition year).  A quick preview on upcoming math skills.......Geometry will immediately follow division.  This is a big part of our AKS and it is often heavily tested.  It is also the one area of difficulty for for many students.  If you see your child is catching on quickly to division, why not start a little geometry preview?  Make if fun.  I'll try to add some geometry links soon to help out with this.  Remember, students do have math textbooks that can stay at home until the end of the year an this is another great resource tool. 

 

Finally, I have been busy retesting many students on their reading level so I can have up to date information for you at conferences.  The students are making EXTRAORDINARY GAINS in reading.  Those students who have really commited to reading and staying on task for reader's workshop are making the biggest leaps.  I am still testing one student who to date has jumped 5 levels and is trying for number 6 next week.  That's a lot of levels in just one nine weeks.  Our parent volunteers are also busy  reading with their buddies (and supporting us in grammar too).  Just imagine the gains after a little extra TLC from our very own parent volunteers! 

 

Parents thank you for always doing great things to support us in the classroom and your child's education.  All of this amazing work your children are producing is BECAUSE OF YOU! 

 

 Have a fantastic, fun-filled, and safe Happy Halloween!

Don't forget...

Thursday, December 2nd from 6-8 pm is Literacy Night!

Author Carmen Deedy will be here to tell stories and sign her books!

To order personalized copies of Carmen's books, fill out the attached form and return it to your child's teacher by Friday, November 19th. A personalized book makes a great Christmas gift!!!!

 

The students took their end of unit multiplication test and most students scored 92% or higher!    Isn't that FABULOUS!   I AM EXTREMELY PROUD OF THEM AND THEIR (yours too) HARD WORK.  I also finished scoring their second personal narrative and I am so proud of their efforts to improve areas of weaknesses from the first draft.  Most students had noticeable positive differences in their second draft! If you're able to get away from work for a short while the students and I would love to see you during our Writing Celebration this Thursday from 9:30-10:00.  Our authors  will select one of their pieces to showcase and you'll get to walk around and read our stories!  The students are looking forward to your compliments! 

 

Fall dress up day is this Friday.  Students may come in costumes, but please make sure they are comfortable.  There should be no make-up, masks, or costume weapons.  We WILL FOCUS ON LEARNING this day after Kindergarten completes their annual parade.  Students will get their goody bags that you (the parents) so generously donated items for.  They will also receive a special treat at lunch!  In the afternoon, while reading they will get to extend their thinking and imagination by participating in one or two small group activities.  Thank you for being so very supportive and generous with your time and energy in making sure the students have a fun and productive third grade year!

Kindergarten has joined with TerraCycle to start collecting empty Capri Sun pouches for our team.  They will give .02 cents back to our school for every pouch.  We need your help--starting Monday students can place their empty pouch in a container on the center tables in the lunch room.  

Ms. Sondak will be busy this year creating a digital yearbook for our students.  I am so excited!  Please help make this a special end of the year present by making sure we have your pictures. The more we have the better! You can email her copies or send them in on a "thumb drive".  Once she's copied them she can return the drive back to you.  Thanks!

ITBS testing is done!  Hooray!  The students and I are very excited to return to our "normal" schedule.  The students were focused and work diligently on their exams. I am very proud of their hard work and focus this week. Scores will be released later this year.  I want to thank you for the wonderful snack donations this week.  The kids really love the snacks!  We have a lot left over to supply students with snacks next week if they need it. 

Next week the students will be focusing on how to implement smooth, quiet, and quick transitions.  Students continue to struggle with shifting gears from subject to subject, arriving and leaving special area classes, and appropriate cafeteria behavior.  They do a wonderful job in the hallways and will now work on monitoring their actions during these transition times.  Starting next week, decision dollars will be tied to their transitions.  I am hopeful that this will help students remember to do their part in ensuring a productive and positive learning environment. 

We will jump back into our learning routine next week by wrapping up our unit on mulitiplication with another test mid week.  We will continue with the timed tests to ensure memorization of facts.  Most students did extremely well--look for this week's timed test in the Friday folder next week.  After multiplication we will dive into our division unit.  Memorization of multiplication facts will create a solid foundation for division.  In reading, I have begun to assess student growth in reading level.  I am very pround and impress with the gigantic leap many students have made in just the first nine week.  Students that have been engaged and on task reading during our workshop time have made amazing progress.  I have great news to share at our upcoming conferences regarding your child's progress.  I hope to review reading binders next week and they should be going home for you to review soon.  

In writing, the students have finished their second personal narrative.  Next week they will spend time working on their independent personal narrative which will be scored for the Georgia Writing Assessment.  On Thursday, students wil select one of their personal narrative to showcase at our Author's Celebration.  Please consider joining us from 9:30-10:00 as students celebrate their hard work by reading their classmates pieces and complementing them on their writing success.  Students are looking forward to sharing their work with you! 

Thank you for donating items for the students' Halloween goody bag and making thier week special and memorable.  Our room mom are hard at work putting everything together--THANK YOU.  Your parent TEAMWORK is amazing and the kids are going to love the treats!  Remember, candy grams will go on sale next week-2 for a $1.00.  

If you submitted a form and payment then you will have access to the tutorial beginning October 27th and it will last until February 28, 2011.  Access instruction sheets will go home in this weeks Friday folder. 

Thank you for replying so quickly with your preference times.  I will be coordinating "sibling meetings" tomorrow with other teachers.  I hope to have your conference times to you by the end of the week.  I am working diligently to try to give you one of your three preferences.  Thanks for your patience. 

Renowned author and storyteller Carmen Deedy is coming to our school!!!

When?

Thursday, December 2nd from 6-8 p.m.

Why?

To share some of her wonderful stories, talk about being an author, and sign her books!

Who is invited?

All Puckett's Mill students and parents are encouraged to attend. Carmen will present from 6-7 pm for K-2nd grade students and parents; and from 7-8 pm for 3rd-5th students and parents (if you have students in both age groups come for both!). You will not want to miss this event!

Who is Carmen Deedy?

Carmen Agra Deedy is a children's book author whose work has received national and international acclaim. Carmen has spent her life traveling, writing, and telling stories. Born in Havana, Deedy immigrated with her family during the Cuban Revolution to Decatur, Georgia, where she still lives today.

Throughout her long career, Carmen has written many wonderful and award winning books. One of Deedy’s most beloved books, The Library Dragon, tells the story of an overprotective school librarian with a fiery technique. The book is nearing its 15th anniversary and has become a favorite among teachers, librarians, and children. Recently her folktale, Martina the Beautiful Cockroach, received the prestigious Pura Belpré Honor and the International Latino Award for Best Children’s Picture Book. Her latest book, 14 Cows for America, is a New York Times bestseller.

Deedy loves to share her stories with children and adults at festivals, schools, conferences, theaters and museums across the nation and is known for her amazing ability to tell a story. Carmen has the unique ability to tell stories in a way that delights children and entertains adults at the same time.

........for donating your Diary of a Whimpy Kid to the class library.

I moved students link to its own tab and added games!  Go online to learn, practice, and have fun.  Don't forget to use Renzulli too!  Don't forget to check your math HW on line (after you've completed it on your own and with support from parents if needed)!

Please make sure to send me your preference times. I'll send another email out if I haven't heard from you soon.  Also, I'll post field day pictures up soon!

FIELD DAY WAS VERY EXCITING AND FUN FILLED!    The students really had a good time.  Everyone placed in at least one event and the class earned "Third Place" in Tug-of-War.  I really appreciate all the parental support today!  I love my parents because they are beyond wonderful.  The students love having you around and they really enjoyed the popsicle treats at lunch and at the end of the day.  Thank you for being so supportive, understanding, and giving of your time and money.  I got more prizes this week for the prize box.  These are the best goodies ever.  Your support really helps the decision dollars carry more weight in the classroom and allows the kids to enjoy their rewards.  We are having an amazing year thanks to everything you do. 

 

Our parent volunteers have begun to come in and buddy up with students.  I appreciate the time they will be spending one-on-one with students to help them in areas needing growth.  It will really make a BIG difference in each student's life.  Volunteers please remember you get a little break next week due to changes in ITBS testing.  We'll see you again the week after testing! 

 

Speaking of testing,  please make sure students are well rested and have a nutritional breakfast.  The ITBS is much longer than last month's CoGAT.  Protein for breakfast will help students maintain the stamina needed to do well on thinking hard all morning.  Thank you to the parents that volunteered to bring in healthy treats for students to have in the morning.  They love them and it sets a positive mood for testing. Every little bit helps. 

 

Report cards went home today.  There should be no surprises, but please email me with any questions or concerns you have.  I am here to help support you and your child so that they can grow as learners and be as successful as possible this year. 

 

In the spirit of giving and because you are such great role models, the students want to bring in most cans for the canned food drive (they are a little competitive).  We have 33 cans so far and the students want to try and bring in at least 3 more cans per person.  If you can help the students with this goal, they would love it!

 

Finally,  we will have a writing celebration soon.  I'll put it on the calendar as soon as I have narrowed down the date.  It will probably be on the Thursday or Friday (week after ITBS) at 9:25.  Look for details to come next week.  Have a great weekend.

 

 

Homework will be given out tomorrow. 

Please see new math homework that reviews skills and previews upcoming skills to be introduced.  Students should complete review skills quickly and research to find answers and learn about upcoming skills.  I will be posting the answer sheet to this new math homework on Monday's for students/parents to check answers against.  I will create a new math tab for you to easily locate answers. 

Also, note the template to be completed that supports studying math multiplication facts.  Facts should be memorized so that students may answers products quickly. 

Parent conferences: Report cards will go home on Friday.  Please begin to make a list of questions or concerns you have so that we can utilize our 15 minute conference to the best of our abilities.  If you email me specific questions, we can maximize our time together better.  Please look for dates and times coming soon for our early November meeting.  I look forward to meeting with all my parents. 

Here is our testing schedule breakdown.  Make sure students have a very good night's sleep and eat a nutritional breakfast with protein. 

Our revised classroom scheudule will follow below. 

Monday

Reading [Vocabulary (15 min.), Reading Comprehension Part 1 & 2(55 min.]

Tuesday

Language [Spelling (12 min.), Capitalization (12 min.), Punctuation (12 min.), Usage & Expression (30 min.)]

 

Wednesday

Math [Concepts & Estimation (30 min.), Problem Solving/Data Interpretation (30 min.), Computation (15 min.)]

 

Thursday

Social Studies (30 min.) & Science (30 min.)

 

Friday

Sources of Information [Maps/Diagrams (30 min.), Reference Materials (25 min.)]

 

Classroom Schedule for  ITBS week:

8:15-10:30 Testing

10:30-11:50 Learning Time [various subjects]

11:54-12:24 Lunch

12:25-12:50 Read Aloud

12:55-1:40 Specials

1:45-2:15 Recess

2:15-2:45 Learning Time con't

Make sure they visit Funbrain and practice by playing "Grammar Gorillas".  It under student sites to the lower left of the home page screen.  Make sure to check out some other new grammar links!

If you want your child to have access to the online tutorial that directly supports the mathematics AKS, make sure to turn in your form and $10.00 before the deadline this Friday.  Also, the field day t-shirts have arrived (dark green) and I will hold onto them until Friday morning.  If your child did not order a field day shirt they are welcomed to wear any dark green shirt they own. 

Today was the last week of the grading period!  I can't believe it.  I will be grading this weeks papers and entering them in the gradebook.  Afterwards, I will prepare the report cards and 9 week award winners!   Congratulations to Jake M. for earning the Wise Owl Award for September.  I wonder which magnificent student will earn it next?

 

Thank you for the donated cans!  Please keep them coming.  I also want to thank you for the enthusiam and generousity in donating items for the students to receive during Halloween.  We will be working hard on that day, but the special treats will go a long way.  Thank you for supporting our room moms.  They are doing a great job of helping me run the extra activities.  Ms. Childs also had her fun today running the classroom store!  Thank you, Ms. Childs.   Mrs. Rhine brought in some new and exciting items for the classroom store--thank you.  The students really enjoy shopping and all the cool items to chose from.  I couldn't run the classroom store without all my parents and their fabulous donations.  Thank you very, very much.

 

Next week is a short instructional week due to the holiday on Monday and field day Friday.  The kids and I would love for you to join in on the fun.  Feel free to attend, have lunch with us, and take a lot of pictures.  We will spend the Tuesday through Thursday working hard and setting new and improved learning goals for the second nine weeks. One of the goals is maintaining silent transitions to aid in a smooth and learning packed day.  Students are struggling with multitasking (talking and getting ready quickly).  I hope that after a period of silence they will be reading to whisper between subjects while simultaneously getting ready to move on quickly.  For lunch we've moved to a boy/girl seating arrangement to help maintain calmness and order.  I appreciate your continued support as students learn to gauge and monitor appropriate behavior during "less structured" times of the day. 

 

Enjoy the long weekend! 

We were very lucky to have a very special guest reader in our classroom today.  Jose Valdez from the Atlanta Falcons visited to read to our kids, sign autographs, and give out silly bands and trading cards. The kids were very excited and enjoyed this special visit.  He was very generous and giving of his time and energy.  He answered tons of questions, too!  We appreciate the special visit and goodies.  He also graciously donated food and treats to help us enjoy Halloween.  This wonderful visit was made possible by Mackenzie and her mom.  THANK YOU for the awesome opportunity!  We really enjoyed ourselves!  See the pictures on our album!

Last Friday's test was returned to students today.  The assessment really tested students understanding of long vowel patterns, due to the mixed nature of the words dictated.  This week's test will have mixed vowels within each given section.  Students met with me in small group today and showed how to study for the test (creating word ladders based on missed patterns).  They also received sheets on the patterns again with examples.  Tomorrow's HW packet will also include some long vowel practice.  Remind your child to look for patterns and rules that might work with certain patterns (we've discussed these in class also). 

Theory of Engagement, by Phillip Schelchty

1. AUTHENTIC ENGAGEMENT
• The student sees the activity as personally meaningful.
• The student’s level of interest is sufficiently high that he persists in the face of difficulty.
• The student finds the task sufficiently challenging that she believes she will accomplish something of worth by doing it.
• The student’s emphasis is on optimum performance and on “getting it right.”

Students who are engaged:
• Learn at high levels and have a profound grasp of what they learn
• Retain what they learn
• Can transfer what they learn to new contexts

2. STRATEGIC COMPLIANCE
• The official reason for the work is not the reason the student does the work—she substitutes her own goals for the goals of the work.
• The substituted goals are instrumental—grades, class rank, college acceptance, parental approval.
• The focus is on what it takes to get the desired personal outcome rather than on the nature of the task itself—satisfactions are extrinsic.
• If the task doesn’t promise to meet the extrinsic goal, the student will abandon it.

Students who are strategically compliant:
• Learn at high levels but have a superficial grasp of what they learn
• Do not retain what they learn
• Usually cannot transfer what they learn from one context to another

3. RITUAL COMPLIANCE
• The work has no meaning to the student and is not connected to what does have meaning.
• There are no substitute goals for the student.
• The student seeks to avoid either confrontation or approbation.
• The emphasis is on minimums and exit requirements—what do I have to do to get this over and get out?

Students who are ritually compliant:
• Learn only at low levels and have a superficial grasp of what they learn
• Do not retain what they learn
• Seldom can transfer what they learn from one context to another

4. RETREATISM
• The student is disengaged from current classroom activities and goals.
• The student is thinking about other things or is emotionally withdrawn from the action.
• The student rejects both the official goals and the official means of achieving the goals.
• The student feels unable to do what is being asked, or is uncertain about what is being asked.
• The student sees little that is relevant to life in the academic work.

Students who are in retreat:
• Do not participate, and therefore learn little or nothing from the task or activity assigned

5. REBELLION
• The student is disengaged from current classroom activities and goals.
• The student is actively engaged in another agenda.
• The student creates her own means and her own goals.
• The student’s rebellion is usually seen in acting out—and often in encouraging others to rebel.

Students who are in rebellion:
• Learn little or nothing from the task or activity assigned
• Sometimes learn a great deal from what they elect to do, though rarely that which was expected
• Develop poor work habits and sometimes develop negative attitudes toward intellectual tasks and formal education.

Take some time to reflect on your students to determine their individual levels of engagement. What can be done to move them closer to being Authentically Engaged?

The students had a blast today during their well deserved celebration.  They had fun playing and interacting with one another and showing me fun games and applications on their devices.  We will have our next celebration in November, but the exact date and theme is to be determined.  Thanks to Gavin and Jake M. for bringing in treats that we could all enjoy while we celebrated. :o)

 

Next week for reading we will continue to work on inferring as this has proved to be a tricky skill for many students to master.  Many times authors don't tell or obviously state the important information you need to understand the text.  The reader needs to infer or "read between the lines" to reach conclusions.  Readers need to find clues the author leaves behind and think about personal experiences they've had to help them understand.  At home you can provide extra support and practice on inferring by doing a web search on "inferencing, inferring practice, drawing conclusions".  There are online worksheets and even better yet, online practice games.  The best way to help your child infer is by reading a book jointly and asking them questions.  I will also provide additional practice worksheets on inferring in next week's homework packet.

 

In math the students are doing an amazing job with multiplication.  Next week we will focus on multiplication strategies.  Strategies are taught to help students think and apply multiplication to word problems, but MEMORIZING facts is critical for future success in math and working in a timely manner.  All students should begin memorizing their facts in different ways-  Play online math facts games, use flash cards, and play multiplication war at home with siblings and parents (played just like war but the player who gives the correct product first wins the card pairs) just to name a few.  There are also many applications out for the Ipod products that support math memorization skills (and brain games too).  Don't work on all the facts at once.  Start with the zero's, one's, and two's.  Then add 5's, 10's, and 11's.  These are the easiest for students to memorize.  Then go back and work on 3's and 4's.  Add the 6's, 7's, 8's, and 9's one at a time as they master each level before.  If students work on this 10 minutes a day they will be love multiplication and division as it gets harder.

 

The students are working very hard and I love their energy and hard work ethics!  Thank you very much for instilling wonderful values in your children and supporting learning in school.  I couldn't do it without you and you make all the difference in the world.  I appreciate you! 

 

Beginning next week we will have some of our very own parents volunteering in the classroom to support learning!  I am very excited and thankful for their support.  Also, Ms. Childs has graciously agreed to run our classroom store on Fridays.  It has become too much for me to do while trying to focus on teaching.  Now they get to shop, which they love, with Ms. Childs.  The students LOVE the new items you have been sending in.  THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR DONATIONS!  Also, Ms. Sondak has agreed to put together a digital yearbook for our students.  This will be a wonderful memory to cherish.  To help make this a beautiful memory and to ensure that all students are represented, please send me and Mrs. Sondak copies of the pictures you take during the school year.  Field day is coming up so come ready with your camera.  If you have already taken pictures (back to school picnic for instance) please send them in.  

 

As the first grading period approaches its end, please continue to monitor grades.  If you have questions or concerns please contact me and I will be happy to communicate with you. 

Have a fantastic weekend and enjoy the fall weather.   

....to Mackenzie, Jake P., and Jonathan for even more classroom shopping items.  Jonathan also donated some very cool books for our classroom library!  Jake M and Gavin brought delicious cookie treats for all of us to enjoy during our technology celebration!  :o)  Thank you!

Dear Parents, 

I want to personally invite you to attend a Mill Creek Cluster Foundation meeting with me on Tuesday, October 28th at 6:45 in the PMES media center.  The PMES Board of Trustees will also be attending the Mill Creek Cluster Foundation meeting to learn about the foundation's goals for the Mill Creek Cluster.  Please send me an email if you plan on attending that night so I can make sure to look for you, say hello, and we can share our thoughts about the foundation's future goals. 

The students are accustomed to keeping to the same pattern during the word dictation.  This week we will continue to work with long vowels, but mix up the patterns in the same box.  For example, there will be a "Long A" box and the words might be:  play, train, create, make. Students are being encouraged and we will keep a list of patterns we notice.  For example, the pattern ay is usually seen at the end of a word like in tray and ai is usually seen at the beginning or middle of a word like in aid and mail.  Students are encouraged to take home their word study notebooks to review word list already created and find patterns.  They may also practice applying pattern to words you call out.  Please email me if you have specific questions or concerns.  I'll be happy to communicate with you. 

I am VERY PROUD of the students.    Overall, they did extremely well with the majority earning A's and B's!  Grades will be posted early at the beginning of the week.  Have a great weekend.

Thank you for sending your children to school everyday this week.  Everyone completed the CogAt on the designated days and no make ups had to be given in our room.  The snacks were a big success--THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!   We have some left over and I will be letting the kids enjoy it during our celebration next week.  Enjoy the rest from testing.  Before you know it ITBS testing will be around the corner (next month). 

 

I hope everyone had fun with the online homework.  I think it was a huge success.  Please let me know how it was at home and if you think future work can be given utilizing Renzulli. 

 

The students are working hard on monitoring their talking during transition times so we can have a fun-filled and less stressful learning environment.  They continue to work hard.  Please continue to review work being sent home and the choice cards for specific information regarding your child's academic and behavior progress.  As a whole, we continue to discuss reading directions carefully and going back to check work.  Many students are doing a fantastic job of taking responsibility and putting learning first and others are on their way!

 

The technology celebration is next Friday.  Students may bring appropriate electronic games and items to relax and enjoy a morning off.  If you are unsure of what is okay just send an email and I'll be happy to reply.  Students may also bring food and drink if they want.  They are very excited about our upcoming celebration. 

 

Finally, I hope to email parents who wanted to volunteer this week.  I'm sorry it's taken a while, but I'll enjoy the help coming!  Have a great weekend.

Just in case you didn't know, YOUR KIDS LOVE TO SHOP!  I thought I would let you know what you were in store for since the teenage years are just around the corner.  I love to shop too, so our class has something in common.  THANK YOU very much to the parents who donated loads of fun and exciting items for our classroom store!  Everything is selling and the kids love the new items.  I appreciate and welcome more donations as the year moves along.  They have so much fun shopping!  Most students have paid for next weeks celebration and some have choosen not to participate because they would rather shop!  This is definitely a first!  Thank you again for helping supply our store.

Parents, the parent portal is currently under maintenance.  Grades will not be updated until Saturday the 25th. 

Just as we eased into our routines and became comfortable with procedures, the CogAT enters our life next week.  The exam will take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of next week first thing in the morning.  There are 3 sections each day, each lasting 10 minutes.  The CogAT measures a student's potential to succeed at school related tasks.  This test measures reasoning skills that the student has developed in life.  It also measures a students abilities to listen, follow directions, and focus attention.  Thank you to the parents that volunteered to donate healthy snacks for the students to eat next week as a breakfast snack before the test.  Although we have these, don't forget to give your child a nutritional breakfast (protein goes a long way). 

 

The work is becoming increasingly more challenging and requiring more indepedent student application and focus.  Please review papers going home and discuss the importance of reading directions carefully and thoughtfully before completing work.  Many times students have the skills necessary to be successful, but struggle with following the directions written.  Today students took a math quiz on tally and frequency tables and I had to require many students to go back and reread directions so that they could do as was required.  Also, take time this weekend to praise or remind your child about making good choices that revolve around learning. 

 

My October Scholastic orders went home today.  I know we just had the book fair but you can never have too many books. All the new books I received went into the classroom library today and students rushed to grab them and put them in thier book boxes for reading!  I can't wait to order more.  I want to thank all of my parents for their consistent support and dedication to the students and learning.  Your support goes a long way.  Many, many thanks for the all book money donations and purchases made to our class.

Jenna donated a great book for our classroom library and Sarah donated some multiplication flash cards for the students to use during math games!  Thank you for thinking of others, supporting learning and giving generously!

Parents, this school year, thousands of classrooms across the country, including us, will be participating in Scholastic Book Clubs’ Classrooms Care Literacy campaign—a unique reading motivation program that teaches children the importance of reading and giving. Every student in our child’s class will pledge to read ten books— and when they’ve finished, Scholastic Book Clubs and its charity partners will donate One Million Books to Kids in Need in all 50 states! 

 

By encouraging your child to read today, and by empowering him or her to share resources with those in need, we can shape a brighter future where all children benefit.  We are keeping track in the classroom and on line!

 

Visit www.scholastic.com/ClassroomsCare with your child

for more details and fun activities.

 

Thank you!

 

....for donating a copy of 39 Clues to the classroom!  I didn't have any and you just started my collection!

I want to thank all the parents and students that were able to attend tonight.  It was very nice to see the kids out and having fun!  My son, Hayden, enjoyed playing with the kids too! I also want to thank our FABULOUS ROOM MOMS, Mrs. Milam and Mrs. Childs, for setting up a lovely table with yummy cookies and a very nice classroom posters with all of our pictures displayed.  I squeezed in a little time to run to the book fair and buy books for the classroom library that will be ready next week for the kids to dive into.  THANK YOU very much for all of your very generous donations! 

I want to begin by saying that I have the best third grade students EVER!  I am so proud of the students for many reasons, but here's a short list:  (they are) polite, kind, generous, hard workers, friendly, care about learning, make new learing goals, are honest, fix/learn from past mistakes, try to improve, make me smile, and aren't afraid to think and make mistakes! 

 

My parents are pretty fabulous too:  supportive, caring, supporitive, giving, supportive, generous.....(you get the idea)!  THANK YOU to those parents who have donated book fair money so that I can buy more books for our classroom library.  The kids are helping me pick out some books.  All your donations will be used to buy books at the school book fair and go immediately into our shelves for the kids to use.  Speaking of Scholastic books, if you ordered on line from me the books are on the way and should arrive early next week.  

 

Today I printed progress reports for all the students.  Please continue to check grades on line for frequent updates.  Please note that the writing grades are not comprehensive right now and will increase in quanitity very soon.  Therefore, writing grades will move up or down depening on how students perform on up coming work.  Thank you for talking with your kids about their work habits.  I am seeing an improvement already.   This week make sure to look over and discuss with your kids the Reading Workshop binder and the Math Problem Solving Journal.  The math journal was graded by your very own kids (and reviewed by me)!  As always, please let me know if you have any questions.  I look forward to my continued conferences and seeing you tonight at the picnic!

Students will preview the book fair this Thursday and shop next Tuesday from 10:00-10:45 as a class.  Parents are welcome to come have lunch with the students and shop at the book fair.  If you do this just drop me a quick note so I know where they are and walk your child out to recess and let me know he's back (1:00 the latest). 

Homework-Packets and journals will be ready tomorrow.  No packets were given tonight.  :o)

This was another terrific week and the students and I are working hard.  Can you believe we are halfway through the nine weeks!  I will be grading papers (tests) this weekend.  Once the grades are in on Tuesday morning, make sure to look up your child's grades and see how they are doing.  Please note that there are not many grades in the grade book because we spend a great deal of time at the beginning of school learning routines and expectations.  More grades will be entered before the end of the nine week.s  If you're child needs support, I've already set up a conference with you and look forward to making a plan of action to help your child succeed.  I will print progress reports for students earning a "D" or "U" in any subject area to send home for your signature.  

 

Congrats to Emma-Kate for earning the Wise Owl award for the month of August.  I will add her name to the awards section soon.  I hope to have it up and running this week. 

 

I want to thank J.T's mom for sending in items for the prize box.  They sold like hot cakes this morning!  Speaking of spending, I have never seen kids spend so much money.  Many are saying they want to skip the "Electronics Celebration".  This is a great opportunity for you to review saving practices and decisions with your child.  I also wanted to thank Bryce's mom for helping me pass out donuts today at lunch.  I treated the kids to a nice sugary treat, which they enjoyed.

 

Friday folders today have a lot of information.  Make sure to review items carefully for field day T-shirt orders and more.  Please email me if you have any questions or concerns.  Have a great Labor Day weekend and I'll see the kids Tuesday morning (with homework)! 

The math test is tomorrow.  The test will include:  place value, expanded form, comparing numbers, ordering numbers, estimating and rounding.  All students took a rounding quiz today after spending 5 days on rounding to the nearest 10, 100, and  1,000.  We worked very hard teaching and reteaching (learning and relearning) how to round in small groups.  Today's quiz went home in the students binder (instead of tomorrow) to help you review with your child.  Also, math and social studies books were assigned today.  Students were told they may take home their books when needed.  Books do not need to be returned until the end of the year.  Feel free to use these for extra practice or to further support learning at home. 

The students had another fantastic week as we all begin to settle into our new routines and expectations.  All students who earned and "E" on their choice card and completed 100% of their homework this week enjoyed eating lunch in the classroom on Wednesday.  Help your child earn this special privilege by setting high homework expectations at home.  Once students complete work independently, review their progress and have them correct or improve their responses and answers.  Remember reading for information and understanding is a BIG part of the 3rd grade curriculum.  Make sure your child is engaged in reading and thinking a minimum of 30 minutes a night. 

 

Friday folders this week have a little more paper work for you to review.  Please take time to sit with your child and review all assignments.  Remember to praise them for effort and hard work.  Stress things like reading directions, questions and answer choices carefully.  You might discuss the importance of writing answers clearly to explain thinking.  As we begin the 3rd grade year, if you see your child is not working up to expectations on assignments, discuss concerns with them in a positive and caring way.  Then make a realistic plan with them that students can implement in the upcoming week.  Remember to revisit the plan and goals weekly to provide continuous support for learning. 

 

I am beginning to enter grades this week and there will be more to come.  Remember you have access to grades through the on line portal.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding the grading process please do not hesitate to contact me.  I am currently working on the last of my data collection in reading and writing.  Once these are done I will begin contacting parents for conferences if needed or if you requested one. 

 

Thank you for a wonderful start to the year!

Mrs. Killian has created a new site that will help you support your child in studying.  Her link is:

http://scienceandsocialstudies.shutterfly.com/

I'll add it to my links section below.  Also, today the students got a sneak peak at how word study quizzes look like in our classroom.  Make sure to visit the "Word Study" tab for ideas to help them apply the long a sound to words.  Email me with questions and I'll reply ASAP.

Science quiz this Friday.....study your words!  Students have notes and words in their folder and should bring them home to study.

Parents, Business Owners, & Grandparents we need you!  Show your enthusiasm and encouragement by taking an active role in a child's education.  By joining the PTA you show you are an active member in a child's life.  Help students become successful by being a true partner with the school.  Remember both parents can join!  As an incentive (for the kids) if we have 100% class parent participation in the PTA by September 17th we get a popcorn party.  Also the classes with the most business partners and grandparent membership will earn an ice cream party and/or pizza party respectively!

 

Thank you for attending curriculum night.  For those unable to attend, I sent the power presentation handout in your child's folder.  I appreciate all the kind words and support I received from everyone.  I really do have the best third grade students and parents.  The students are doing an excellent job of getting into a routine.  Now that expectations have been discussed, modeled, and practiced learning will begin to pick up pace.  Please continue to hold daily conversations about learning using the questions in their agenda as a guide and help students focus on and develop independence skills-  especially reading for a sustained length of time nightly.  Also, remember to sign the Friday folder and the red choice card (behavior). I will contact parents for conferences, if needed, in approximately two weeks.  Please email me with any questions or concerns as the need arises.  Have a fantastic weekend! 

It was such a nice surprise to have my students shower me with "Graduation" cards!  Thank you for thinking of me and acknowledging my hard work.  It definitely was a great way to start a Monday!  It was nice of our room moms, Ms. Childs and Ms. Milam, to bring in treats for the kids during our snack time.  The kids also loved the extra cupcakes Ms. Kopczynski delivered!  The cupcakes were delicious and they also enjoyed the juice boxes.  What a great way to start the year.  THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! 

Parents today your child took home their 'Friday Folder'. Please review the papers inside, sign, and return it.  Also there is an important parent homework called "Parent Reading Inventory".  Please complete and return with the folder.  Thanks!

The students did a fantantic job this week.  The students jumped right into the swing of things and acted like they've been in third grade for at least a month!  I am so proud of them and impressed with thier positive energy, listening skills, and thoughtful/supportive behavior.  I am thrilled to have such an amazing group of students.  Please continue to sign the agenda daily and the reading log must be initialed every day.  The homework in the "Reading and Writing Homework Journal" is due Tuesday.  I will return it on Wednesday with new assignments.  Next week students will also take home a math homework package.  Make sure to clink on the "Calendar" link to see important school announcements and updates!  Parents, thank you for all you do.  Great kids happen through your hard work and I appreciate all you do to make learning happen!

The students are exceeding my expectations and are amazing to work with!  Homework was given out today Tuesday, Aug. 10th.  Check their "Reading & Writing HW Journal" for information.  This is all the HW for this week and is due next Tuesday, Aug. 17th.  Please continue to send your students with HEALTHY snacks to keep up the brain power.  Snacks today looked good.  Students are allowed to keep water bottles on their desk. It would be a great idea for students to have "Coozies" and help keep their desk dry.  Tomorrow Wednesday they begin to attend Science & Social Studies with Mrs. Killian!  Email me with any questions or concerns!  Have a great rest of the week. 

To learn all about 3rd grade with me, make sure to read the "10-11 Handbook" on the left side under FORMS!

I am very excited about starting the school year and eager to meet all of my students and their families.  I hope everyone relaxed, had a fun-filled summer, and read a lot.  I read a ton of books and went to the pool a lot with my son, Hayden.  I am also currently finishing up my last two classes for my Specialist degree, finishing on August 15th!