In the past two weeks, we have kept very busy. We wrapped up our science unit, switched back to exploring Texas regions, and written a personal narrative. Coming up, we have parent/teacher conferences, a three day weekend, and fall pictures. Families should have already seen progress reports going home (and back to me with a signature, and back home again).
Hopefully, you have already received an email linked to a sign-up for parent conferences. Mrs. Pinter, Mrs. Ahn, and I are hoping to be able to attend all of the conferences together. We appreciate your understanding regarding the range of dates and times this will entail. Along the same lines, we recognize that many families have two households. If there is anyone left off of the email list that should be receiving information, please email me and I will do what I can to remedy the problem.
In science, we finished our study of classifying matter and soil. We have begun looking at forces and changes to land. In addition, due to a family sending them in, we have been able to observe a pair of caterpillars. They are currently in their chrysalises, but I'm sure you will hear about the next stage in their metamorphosis.
Now that we have completed the "Texas Bus Tour" of the regions, the class will be looking deeper at the natural resources each region has to offer. We will examine the native tribes that settled throughout Texas, and the influence the resources had on their lifestyles.
Students are really increasing endurance in writing. They have finished their first major composition. The scoring rubric for these is based on the end of year expectation, much like what you remember from the primary grades. This can feel awkward at first, but it is helpful for goal setting and fine-tuning students' achievements.
I look forward to meeting with families over the next few weeks. Please feel free to email me with any questions or concerns you may have.
