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