Crew News 9.22.11

Constitution Day In honor of Constitution Day on September 17th, we took some time today to talk about the Constitution. We had a great conversation talking about themes of showing citizenship by saying the pledge of allegiance, voting, following laws, and jury duty. Share with your child how you show citizenship.

Crew Learning Expedition: Students have done an excellent job this week debriefing all their learning from Bent’s Fort. Expert groups shared their most important facts, and we revisited the guiding questions to discuss the big ideas. Now students are beginning to put together photo essay to share learning and expertise on Bent’s Fort. HINTS AT HOME: Share some learning about Bent’s Fort. What facts are you going to share in your photo essay?

Writing/Language Workshop: In writer's workshop, we supported our photo-essay writing with lessons about adding details to writing (showing instead of telling) and combining sentences. In language workshop, students practiced writing photo essays with pictures from home. HINTS AT HOME: What have you learned about writing photo essays,

Math: In math, we have explored new addition and subtraction algorithms. This year students will be presented many methods to solve math problems. The key is to become familiar by trying each and then mastering one to use. HINTS AT HOME: Continue to give authentic opportunities to use addition and subtraction skills (money, time, etc.).

Reading Workshop: (Continued from last week…) Our reading theme involves learning about other cultures around the world. Our reading strategy is asking meaningful questions and understanding how this enables us to better comprehend the text. HINTS AT HOME: Set a routine for 3rd graders to be reading every night. Ask them what questions they are asking as they read.

Spelling : Click here for this week's list. (Week 7)

Reminders:

Sept 23: Book orders due (online please!)

Sept 23: No students; teacher-work day

Sept 26: Picture Retake

Sept 30: Official Count Day

Oct 10-24: Fall Break

Oct 25: Students return from Fall Break

Nov 7-11: Fall Climbing 9:55-10:45am