Week of August 15-19

Well, our first few days getting to know each other were a huge success!  I think everyone had fun and it seems we are going to have a great class!  This week we are going to get a bit more into academics.  Some light homework will be assigned as well.  Please checkout the Homework page for this week's assignments.  These will also be in your child's agenda.

A few bits of important parent info...

• Please read and sign your child's agenda each night even when they don't have homework.  This is one of the ways we can easily communicate.  I will check agendas every morning, so feel free to write me a note in the agenda anytime.
• Our first Early Release Day is Wednesday, August 24th at 12:25pm.  Please send a note if your child's transportation will change that day.
• Parent Orientation is coming up on Thursday, August 25th at 7pm.  Please make plans to attend so I can explain how our 5th grade class works and answer any questions you may have about this year.
• Finally, welcome to our class blog!  I will update at least once a week with important dates and to tell you about what we are learning.  From time to time, I will also pose questions for students and/or parents to invite 2 way communication and to expand our learning outside the classroom.

Coming up this week...

Math:  We will begin learning about place value.

Social Studies:  We will begin a study of geography.

Writing:  We will begin collecting ideas and students will also be given a writing invitation each day.

Reading:  We will begin DRA's so I can learn about your child as a reader as well as some important mini-lessons abotu choosing books.

Word Study:  We will play some word study games including Scrabble to get a feel for the kids' spelling abilities.

Science:  We will begin rotate science in and out with social studies or reading throughout the year.  We have some great units planned to make it fun and hands-on!

So, that's what's going on this week in Mrs. Whitley's room.  If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to call or shoot me an e-mail at jennifer.whitley@oldham.kyschools.us.