News

Dear Parents,
With the hustle and bustle and excitement of Halloween just over, I wanted to update you on what is happening in the classroom and send home a few reminders.

This is quite a busy time with report cards and interviews coming up. Interviews are being held on Thursday, Nov.18th in the evening ( 3:30-7:30pm) and on Friday morning, Nov. 19th (9:00-10:30am). I have received a number of interview aheets, but there are still a number that have to come in. I slot interview times on first come, first save basis.
In the past few weeks I have already seen a number of parents. I think that another interview at this time for those parents is redundant, unless you have an issue you would like to address. I would like everyone to keep in mind that the new report card is a PROGRESS report. It will not be as detailed as the old first term report. It is a snapshot view of how your child has done over the last two months. There will be no marks given.

In language we are focusing on regular and irregular verbs and past verbs. We are also learning about linking verbs. The spelling programme is well on its way. This programme focuses on high frequency words, sentence structure, grammar and phonics. Each week focuses on a different concept and throughout the week the children participate in spelling tasks. As parents, you can always mix it up and make spelling a fun activity by playing around with words. For example, making crossword puzzles or unscambling words, etc. Encourage your child to spell these words correctly in his/hwer writing. As well, I am trying to reinforce using correct punctuation within writing, so any extra encouragement would be helpful!
We continue to read Roald Dalhs' book, "The Witches". We will follow this up with a class novel study. The children are really enjoying the series.

In Math we are learning about addition, by using the "Doubles" and "near Doubles" concept. We have been playing a math game the children are thoroughly enjoying to try and help them to remember their addition facts. We have finished our unit on graphing and the children did well on their math test.
Please encourage adding and subtracting at home as quick mental math is a great way to build confidence in the children as they build on their skills.

In Social Studies we are continuing with Traditions of different cultures as well as our own. We have started the Special Person of the Week Presentations and they have been great. The children have proven to be good and thoughtful listeners for the speaker. It is a wonderful way for the children to learn about public speaking, voice modulation and poise.

In Science, we are finishing up our unit on Liquids and Solids. The children have really enjoyed all our experiments! I will be sending home a sheet for homework on finding products in your household that have a safety symbol on it. Please return it the following day.

The evaluation and reporting process is well underway and the children will be receiving their reports on Monday, Nov. 15th with a P.A. Day on Nov.19th.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the parents who signed up to help with treats for our Halloween party. It was a huge success; great costumes and great fun. It was fun to see everyone come out to the parade. Josette Grech, our Scholastic Mom, will be able to order some wonderful books for our classroom, so a huge Thank You to those of you who order through the program. The next order will be coming out with lots of good idea for Christmas gifts, so make sure to check it out.

Thursday, Nov.11th we will be holding our Remembrance Day ceremony in the gym at 10:30am. On Monday, Nov. 15th we will be going to see the production of Toad and Frog. So, all in all a busy time ahead!

Lastly, thank you to all the children in Room 156 for coming to school with such enthusiasm and for bringing smiles to our classroom every day. I am proud of how well they have settled into the new grade and commend them for their hard work and positive attitudes each day! Keep up the great work!

Mrs. Seitz