Newsletter 9/28-10/2

Here's What's Happening...

English/Language Arts: This week, we will dig in to the skills of author's purpose and context clues.  Though students should be familiar with author's purpose, we dive a little deeper into this skill by looking at the reasons why authors use specific lines or paragraphs in their texts.  As for context clues, we discuss the different types of context clues that they can use to help with determining the meaning of unknown words.  There will also be continued practice of Word Work List 2 words.

Science: In our Patterns of Earth and Sky Unit, we are trying to help the Museum of Archaeology determine what the missing piece of an artifact that was found in China looks like.  Students will have the opportunity to share their thoughts on this, as well as evaluate their learning so far of the key ideas of the unit.  We will also move forward into Chapter 2, which focuses on the question "Why is the sun up sometimes, but not other times?"  

Social Studies: We will continue to work on Ch. 4, L.2, learning about the founding of the colony of New Spain, as well as Pizzaro and the conquest of the Incan Empire.  Students will work on the skill of organizing information in chronological order.  They will wrap up the week with a "Show what you know" graded activity.

Advanced Math: We are wrapping up Topic 1 this week!  On Tuesday, students will take time to review Lessons 4-6, in preparation for a Homework Review on Wednesday.  Then, on Thursday, we will review all of Topic 1, and students will take the Topic 1 Test on Friday.  As a reminder, students can use their notes and resources to help them with the Homework Review.  However, they may not use them for the test.  Students were told on Friday about the test, and I have encouraged them to begin reviewing already to ensure they are prepared!

Important Info:

Curriculum Night!

Curriculum Night is on Tuesday, September 29th.  The virtual format will be as follows: You will receive an email on Monday which contains links to pre-recorded presentations by Mr. Pagel, the Encore team, the instructional coaches, and the 5th grade team.  You will also receive a separate email with the advanced math presentation.  Please make time to watch these presentations before our Curriclulum Night on Tuesday.  Then, on Tuesday, you will receive a link to our virtual Homeroom Question & Answer session, which will take place from 7:20-7:40pm.  During this time, I will give a very brief presentation about myself and some specific homeroom items, and then open the floor for any questions you may have about our fifth grade year.  I hope you are able to join me on Tuesday night! 

Schedule of Events

• Monday, September 28th: No School, Remote Learning Plan Day
• Tuesday, September 29th: Virtual Curriculum Night
• Friday,  October 2nd: Midterm of 1st Trimester