Sunday, November 25, 2012

I am Thankful

The turkey has been eaten, the pies are all gone, and out come the Christmas trees and decorations.  It seems like yesterday it was fall, now the snow is starting to fall!  On the eve of the last day of Thanksgiving Recess, I pull out my lesson plans, and start to fill in the blanks I have left to fill.  Last week was crazy! Getting ready for Thanksgiving, finishing the essays, meeting with parents for conferences.  It seemed like one thing after another, but it was a really good week.  It was so great talking with parents about their children.  I had such a good time talking with the kids about their essays, and listening to them read!  It was busy, but fun!

But I can't help but to wonder....how did the "I am Thankful" essays go over?  Did anyone read them to their families during their meal, or did they chicken out?  I am looking forward to tomorrow just so I can hear all about them!

Also, don't forget!  This Wednesday we are going on our field trip to Helmer's Nature Center!  We had so much fun last year, and I am sure the kids are going to have a great experience this year as well.  We will be back in time for lunch in the cafeteria, so they can buy if they want to.  Part of the field trip will be outside, so please have your child dress for the weather!  Let me know if you have any questions!

Have a great week!

Mrs. Burns  :)

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Native American Projects

Hello everyone!

Sorry, I am a little late on posting...we have had some busy weeks!  As you know, report cards are going home this Friday!  Everyone is scheduled for a conference time and I sent home reminders of your day and time this week.  If the reminder didn't make it and you need another reminder, or you are no longer able to attend, please let me know asap.  We can arrange another time!

Last week, we introduced our Native American projects.  Students picked out a project they would like to do.  We have had a lot of conversations about these projects!  They will be due December 17th, which seems like a long time from now, but it will sneak up on us quickly!  I wanted to address some "frequently asked questions" from both the students and parents:

1.  What should be included in the project? 
Each student's project should contain the following:
* a visual presentation of the assigned topic
* a written (or typed) explanation of the information illustrated by the project
* a list of references (books, websites, etc.) used for the assignment

2.  Where can we get examples of past year's projects?
Mrs. Coene has a wonderful page of examples and informational resources that can be used.  Visit her classroom webpage HERE.

3.  When are the projects due?
All projects are due in school, December 17th.  Large projects should not be brought on the bus.  Projects can always be brought in before the 17th.

4.  How much help should I give my child?
Your child is expected to do most of the work on this project, however, they are going to need some help!  This is a great opportunity to work on a project together, but we don't want the parents to do all of the work...you all already went to 4th grade!

5.  Do I have to go out and buy a bunch of materials for this project?
We do not want families to go out and buy lots of things and spend a ton of money.  Feel free to use materials you have at home.  Recycling is a great idea!  The native americans used what resources they had to survive.  If you choose to go buy things, that is fine, but it is not required.  If you are having trouble getting some materials, please let me know and we can work something out.

6.  What if we have a question about the project?
Anytime you have a question, please do not hesitate to send me a note, email, or call! 


I know there may be more questions, so please do not hesitate to ask!  After a few weeks, I will send home a "status check" for your child to complete, to see how much they have done, and what else they need to do.  This way, we are keeping tabs on it so they do not wait until December 16th to work on it!  Once we get the projects in, we will have a Native American Museum, where students can see what everyone has done and give feedback about the projects.  We will keep the projects on display throughout the school, so everyone can see what we have been working on.

I am looking forward to meeting with all of you to talk about your child, and the progress they have made!  Have a great week, and a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Mrs. Burns