February 13- 26 Newsletter

Hello Families! I hope you are enjoying the warmer weather. The 60 degree day gave me spring fever. Punxtatawney Phil says we still have 5 more weeks of winter! There are a couple additions/changes to the blog. The assignment notebook section now shows you the homework for the entire week, including each color day. Also, the Nature Center pictures are displayed and there is a new poll for your child to participate in about Planting. We had a great week in school. Here's where we've been and where we're headed:

Reading: We continue to learn how to think as we read. This week we are making Text to Self Connections. Starting next week, you will start to consistently see your child bring home a reading bag. Please help your child return the bag to school everyday.

Math: We have been working very hard on measurement and number patterns in Unit 7. We will have our Unit test on Tuesday. Your child's MRB (My Reference Book) will be coming home every night(except weekends) as it is a tool to help explain the homework. On every link, there is a book icon that indicates what page will help you and your child understand the problems. Please help your child return this every day. Please make sure you are checking your child's answers using the key from the family letter in the front of the link packet. Fact test scores are rising-keep up the good work at home!
Writing: Remember to write your child a letter back every weekend. TGIF journals should be returned every Monday. We continue to work hard at keyboarding. We are focusing on being in the "online" position (hands on home keys, good posture)

Science: We continue to watch our brassica plants and grass grow. Most kids have brought home their grass. We also planted wheat seeds to observe their growth. This unit continues to excite our little scientists.

Upcoming Dates: Next Friday is our Field Trip to the Domes
Tonawanda is fortunate to have a guest author, Marsha Diane Arnold, coming to visit. Her books are available to buy through the school. Check out some of the titles on the bookshelf to the right. Also check out her website: http://www.marshadianearnold.com/

Reminders: Read to Succeed Forms (Reading Log to earn a Free Great America Ticket) are due next Friday, Feb 20th. School will be starting earlier and ending a little later starting next week!

What's New?:

• You can now view and purchase class photos at Snapfish.com Look for the link to the right.
  
• MRB- Math Reference Books will be coming home to help with Home Links
• TGIF Journals- please write a letter back to your child every weekend
• Home Book Bags- your child will be bringing home a book every night