I am in awe of the amazingly kind children you have raised. They are just terrific.
We have covered a lot of ground in the last two weeks, particularly with technology. We have also had two drills - fire and lock-down - our regularly scheduled visit from the school counselor, a couple of days with substitutes, and the first round of tests.
Regarding the technology, I am really excited to get started with things so quickly. Many of you have emailed me with responses or questions. Thank you! One thing worth noting is that Round Rock ISD is really growing more involved with Google based programs. If you are willing to use Chrome, it can be helpful. It appears that most programs are compatible with the iOS based Safari, but Internet Explorer is likely to be incompatible.
On STEMScopes, anything with "vocabulary" in the assignment title is posted for reference/review only. This is the same with "STEMScopedia" - it is a virtual supplement to the textbook. The "Interactive Investigation" is an overview of the unit, and is an excellent study guide. The assignment due Monday is the "Progress Monitoring Assessment" and this is the ONLY required task.
In social studies, the class has focused on Celebrate Freedom Week curriculum, which is required by Texas state law. For fourth grade, we emphasize the Declaration of Independence. This is a little confusing, since this week was chosen because of Constitution Day on Thursday, September 17.
Writing lessons have examined figurative language, including similes, metaphors, onomatopoeia and hyperbole. The class has increased endurance in writing journal entries, and bit by bit they are becoming more relaxed. I am still getting a lot of, "Is this right, Mrs. Kirby?" and, "Like this, Mrs. Kirby?" during writing time. I want them worrying less about spelling (in their journals), and more about ideas.
Don't forget: early release next Wednesday! Enjoy Kona Ice!
