Spelling Lists and Homework

There will be no spelling homework assigned over the Holidays except for studying the words.  A regular test will be conducted upon our return to school. 

Grade 2
chip
chop
rich
which
much
such
bunch
lunch
branch
ache
children
stomach

Grade 3
age
page
large
budge
ridge
edge
bandage
college
manage
cage
stage
change
fudge
bridge
ledge
village
challenge

Grade 4
wanted
wasn't
wasting
we're
we've
weak
wealth
wheels
whether
weary
weather
weren't
western
whale
what's
wheat
whenever

Reminder

Tomorrow, math homework and spelling homework is due.
Also, please remember to bring in your $5 wrapped gift for Friday morning!

Math Homework

Tonight a yellow homework sheet came home in the green folder.

It will be due on Wednesday.
Today in Geometry, we learned about 3 new movements.

Reflections = flips
Rotations = turns
Translations = slides
Click on the link to watch a short clip below for an explanation on all three.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1eZi59PC5o

It's Time to Celebrate!

Christmas is just around the corner and we’re planning to have a great day next Friday!


Starting with Santa Gift exchange. This is a game that requires each student to bring in a special $5 wrapped gift. Since there are only 4 girls in the class, they are asked to bring in a ‘girlie’ gift. All the boys may bring in a gift meant for boys. The rules of the game will be explained the day of. Please inform me personally if affordability is an issue.
We will also be watching a Holiday movie and will enjoy some Christmas carols and treats. Families are invited to share their special holiday treat/sweet. If it is a homemade treat and you are able to send in the recipe, please do as I will be compiling them in hopes to put together a family recipe book that can be shared with all.

Spelling Homework - Due next Wednesday Dec.15

All children are asked to write out the words from this week's spelling list 5x each in the little spelling booklet.

Spelling Lists

Grade 2
shell
ship
shop
sheep
shut
dish
fish
wish
rush
push
shape
finish

Grade 3
gas
game
gate
gave
garden
garbage
garage
geese
giggle
gum
guard
guess
guest
guide
guy
guardian
language

Grade 4
baking

bandage
baskets
began
believe
belong
below
benches
between
blanket
bloom
boil
bold
books
bottle
bought
break

Agendas and Homework

No time today to write in the agenda.

There was a yellow homework sheet sent home on Monday that was due today.  Please send it in tomorrow if it hasn't been completed.
There was also a white sheet sent home Tuesday and is due tomorrow. 
Thanks!

DPA Winners

Congratulations to Preyom and Kian! They were our DPA winners for the last two weeks.  Well done boys!

Just Another Day in Room 203...

Every once in a while, Alex has the urge to turn himself inside out. And why not attach a spoon to the nose?!! 

Who knew Domino's could be so exciting?!

Looking for LIDS

We are collecting a certain size lid from containers like sour cream, large yogurts, feta/ricotta cheese etc. Try to remember to keep them and send them in with your child. Thanks

You have to try this!

Spelling City
This is a fun and effective site for practicing our spelling words.  Just enter the words you're studying and choose from all sorts of games and practice tests, and many more activities.  You'll love it!

http://www.spellingcity.com/

New spelling Words

Grade 2
than
that
them
then
these
think
bath
both
with
there
mother
father

Grade 3
jacket
jar
jeans
jelly
jet
job
joke
judge
jump
just
gentle
general
giant
giraffe
gym
jungle
gigantic

Grade 4
direction
daughter
decorator
creation
glacier
guess
tomorrow
remember
continue
amount
against
arguing
annual
answer
exercise
evening
battle

Starting tomorrow...

I will be writing in the agenda daily.  Comments will be short and to the point, updating you on your child's progress and behaviour.  It would be very helpful if parents continue to check AND sign the agenda daily.

In Science...

In science we are observing our mung beans go through the germination process.  Some of our planting techniques are proving to be better than others.  We are also discussing the importance that plants place on society and how people, animals and plants all depend on eachother.

Watch a short clip of a mung bean germinating.  Amazing!

Volunteers for Friday's Trip

I have been selected to attend a full-day ESL workshop this Friday.  Therefore, I will not be going on the trip.  I have however, secured Mrs. Orfao, a former teacher from our school who is familiar with the class.  As well, I have chosen 2 additional volunteers. The kids will be very well taken care of. 

In Language...

Reading
Today I will be meeting with the levelled reading groups.  Together we will discuss our books, share our homework, and take part in a read-aloud.  Further instructions on what to do with the book will be coming home today.

Writing
As you know, we've been focusing in retelling and summarizing. We are also getting into inferencing.  When you are reading with your child, its important that you are stopping every once in a while to ask an inferencing question.  For example, we have been reading a book called Lily and the Paper Man.  It's about a little girl who sees a homeless man everyday as she comes home from school.  The man is in tattered clothing, its winter, and he stands out on the corner selling newspapers for $1. The little girl is concerned for the man and an inferencing question I have asked is "how do you think the little girl feels towards the homeless man?"  Students are encouraged to answer this question using examples from the book and their own experiences to explain their thinking. 

In Math...Geometry and Spatial Sense

We are taking a break from Data Management and working our way forward.
This week we are starting to focus on Movement and Locations of objects on a grid.  We will be using language such as left, right, up, down, diagonal, north, west, east, south, reflection, translation and rotation. 
Using co-ordinates is another area we will be focusing on starting with the famous board game Battleship.

In Social Studies...

We have begun to disect Urban and Rural Communities. 
We are discovering that they are very different and have some similarities.  We are also learning that they very much depend on one another.  See below  for some of their distinct features.  Then, watch a short video that compares the two communities. 

Urban
Over Developed
large population (over 2,500)
many homes
tall buildings
noisy
traffic
many cars
little open space
high pollution
entertainment
many shops and stores
many jobs
restaurants
factories
signs and billboards

Rural
underdeveloped
small population (less than 2,500)
few homes
small buildings
quiet
less traffic
few cars
lots of open space
farms
few shops and stores
few restaurants
forests/trees

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGUkjzPS9sU

Homework

Math homework came home lastnight and is due on Wednesday along with the Spelling homework. 

Reminders - Important Dates

Today or Tomorrow - Scholastic Book Orders are due
Friday, December 3rd - afternoon trip to Young Peoples Theatre
Thursday, December 9th - Winter Concert (we will be performing in the Spring Concert)
Friday, December 18th - last day before Winter Break
January 3rd - 1st Day back to school

Spelling lists

Grade 2 Words
Come
some
from
one
done
none
love
of
gone
does
once
above

Grade 3 Words
back
pack
neck
trick
cricket
lock
block
clock
creek
leak
speak
break
oak
croak
shook
freckles
chuckle

Grade 4 Words
enemy
enjoy
instead
sudden
uncle
jungle
depth
pledge
length
depth
brass
bulk
wreck
craft

Thank You!

I want to thank all parents and students for being so responsible with all the new additions to the Grade 3 program.  I understand it's a lot to take in in a short time, but we're off to a great start!  Everyone came to school prepared today with all their belongings.  Make sure your son or daughter is referring to the checklist each morning and night and I will do the same.  Keep up the good work!

The Agenda is in Use!

We started using the agenda today!  we entered our weekly spelling words and some up-coming events and homework.  Remember to use the agenda when wanting to get a message to me and remind your child to show me when they get to school. 

A Trial Run in Spelling

As you may know, our class has a wide range of learners and as a result, there is more then one grade level of spelling lists being provided.  In addition to the grade 2 and 3 words, I am now introducing the grade 4 words as there are several strong spellers who would benefit from a more challenging list.

Here's how it will work:
From now on, I will post all three lists (grade 2, 3 and now 4).  Those who are being assessed on grade 2 words know who they are.  Everyone else will be assessed on the grade 3 words.  Here's the tricky part...all those who want to 'challenge' themselves to the grade 4 words are welcome to HOWEVER, the only score that counts, comes from the grade 3 word list.

Any questions or confusion?  Don't hesitate to post your comment. I will explain this fully to the class this morning!

Levelled Reading Books

Most of the books that were sent home yesterday have a letter on them indicating the level. This is a different levelling system than the one I use on the children.  Please disregard.  :)
Also, I don't think I indicated that this book and bag is to come to school everyday in the event that we will be doing something with it. And, the homework assigned to the books is to be brought in on Monday, Nov. 29th. 

Theatre Trip Form and Money DUE tomorrow

There are still a number of families who haven't sent in their money for permission forms.  They were due yesterday but I will accept them tomorrow.  Thanks.

Lots of things to look for tonight...

**Please ensure that the red and green folders, agenda and checklists are brought to school every single day**

Today there are many things for your child to explain to you once you get home from school.  Please look in his/her bag for the following: 

#1 - A red folder - Student Reading Log -  Students are to enter the title of the books and pages they read along with the date and a parents signature. We will also will be recording the books we read at school so this folder is to be in their school bag everyday. 

#2 - A zip lock bag and book - Guided Reading Program - starting this week, students have been assigned a book and corresponding work.  In the bag is a white sheet with instructions.  This is due on Monday, November 29th. 

#3 - A checklist - You will find a white sheet with 4 checklists. Please help in reviewing this list with your child each day.  Eventually it should be done independently. 

#4 - a pink sheet - this sheet outlines everything stated above. 

DreamBox Update

I was unaware of a couple things.  One being that the DREAMBOX game site can't be played after 5pm.  My suggestion to families is to have your child play directly after school.  Also, I've been informed that it is only a trial and will expire at the end of December.  If I can make some changes to that I will be sure to let you know. 

As of today, I am Banning...

Bay Blades and Silly Bands. 
After MANY requests and gentle reminds to students to put their Silly Bands and Bay Blades away, I am forced to resort to a complete ban on both.  They are not to be brought to school on Monday.  If students are caught with these I will take them until the end of the year.

Happy Eid!

To all our Muslim Families....Wishing you a very Happy Eid.  Hope you are enjoying the celebrations!

Spelling lesson 11 - Words with s or c

safe
season
sell
sent
seven
silly
sister
soft
sunset
cell
cent
centre
celebrate
city
recess
science
scissors

Our Dreambox Pilot - Try it out!

What is it?
DreamBox Learning K-3 Math is a fun adventure full of stories, interactive games, and more! It’s a highly individualized, effective math program, made engaging so children will be motivated to play and learn — it’s serious learning that’s seriously fun.

It’s serious learning because:
DreamBox individualizes learning through continuous assessment and adaptations during lesson game play. Lessons, hints, level of difficulty, pace, sequence, instructional tools, and many other aspects of the experience are tailored to help each student learn.
It’s a robust math curriculum, with over 500 lessons built on the math learning Focal Points from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
It builds understanding and confidence in math fundamentals being taught in the classroom, through in-depth focus on Number Sense and Computation, and Algebra.
To improve conceptual understanding, students use virtual manipulatives to “show their work” rather than just clicking on an answer. And because our adaptation engine captures every mouse click, this deep, rich data enables highly sophisticated individualization.
DreamBox has online Teacher and Parent dashboards that report on each student’s progress in real time. Teachers can review detailed progress for their whole classroom and for each student. And parents get progress reports and practical tips on bringing math fun into everyday life.

It’s seriously fun because:
- Kids choose from 4 adventure themes (pirates, pixies, dinosaurs, and pets), each with 8 stories, and hundreds of choices for activities in the online adventures.
- DreamBox makes math lessons fun and interactive, so kids build confidence and a sense of accomplishment!
- Kids can choose from 36 characters to represent themselves on screen.
Positive audio and visual feedback encourages progress.
- Kids get rewards such as collectible Adventure Friends, tokens to play Carnival games, and Achievement Certificate awards that can be printed out and proudly displayed.

This program will be used during each computer session on day 4. Students are invited to also use the program at home. Use the link below to help you navigate to DreamBox. Have Fun!


http://play.dreambox.com/c/dfdhj

Progress Reports and BOOK FAIR!!

Today the Progress Report with interview times will be sent home. Also, The Book Fair takes place this week and our class has been assigned the following time slot:

Tuesday, November 16th, 1st recess.

Students are also invited to visit the fair after school each day until 3:30pm starting Tuesday.

Scholastic Orders

4-5 catelogues came home today. I will be putting the book orders through on Novemeber 29th.

Remembrance Day

Thursday, November 11th, is Remembrance Day. Clairlea holds a service each year. This year, our class has contributed to the decorating of the gym. We wrote notes to soldiers and made white crosses with poppies. You are invited to join us tomorrow at 10:30 but keep in mind there may be standing room only. The entire school squeezes into the gym for this and it's very, very tight. Also, poppies will be distributed and donations are accepted. The amount is left up to the donator. Please know that your gratitude is extremely valued and thank you in advance for any denomination that you send in.

Spelling List #8 - Word with C or K

camp
camera
cave
colour
cost
contest
cub
keep
key
kids
kindergarten
kiss
kitchen
kite
kitten
ketchup

There are only 16 words this week. For HOMEWORK I've given students the choice to do ONE of the following:
- create sentences with all spelling words
- define 8 or all of the words
- create a story using as many of the words as possible
- find 3 rhyming words for each spelling word

I'm impressed!

The interview request sheet was sent home on Monday and 16 families have responded! I'm happy to say that most of your request have been met. Your interview time will be included in your childs report card on Monday. For those families yet to make a request, below are the time slots that I still have available.

Thursday 4:30-5:30, 6:30-7:00
Friday 10:15-11:00

I look forward to seeing you all next week. Thank you for your active role in this process.

Robert Munsch Afternoon Play

A 1/2 day trip to the theatre is planned for December 3rd. Please have the permission form and fee back to school by November 22nd. Thanks

Notices and Tests - IMPORTANT!

In the green folder, or simply in your childs bag, you will find the following:
- a mapping pop quiz (has been marked and needs to be signed and returned)
- a spelling test
- a Clairlea Spirit Wear order form - Due Nov.26 - (make cheques payable to Clairlea School Council)
- a Parent Teacher Interview Form - must be returned ASAP to hold your preferred time. Times are based on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Data Management Homework - due Wednesday - Students need to study the graph and transfer the data into a table.

Science Test - Returned

Families, you will find the most recent science test on Plants in your childs bag. I've indicated that I would like it reviewed, signed and returned. We went over the test this afternoon and corrected the mistakes.

Spelling List #7 - words with "ear"

This weeks spelling Homework: write a short story using as many of these spelling words as possible.

bear
pear
wear
tear
ear
dear
fear
near
clear
hear
heard
learn
earth
earn
early
appear
earthquake

...In addition to...

You'll be pleased to see that you no longer need to navigate through pages of posts to find what you're looking for. Simply scroll down. It will go as far as a month back. Also, you can now leave comments for me and others to see. Below each post you will notice the word 'comment'. Simply click and type away. I will check them regularily in the event that responses are required!

Photosynthesis - Sunlight + CO2+Water=sugar (food for the plant)

Erosion part 1of3

The videos below were viewed back at the beginning of our soils unit. Nothing like a refresher!

Erosion part 2of3

Erosion part 3 of 3

Plant Parts and Functions

Slowly but surely

After fiddling around with this blog I'm figuring some things out! Last week it was pictures, this week...videos!
If I post videos on the blog, please watch. They have probably been shown in class and are good to be reinforced at home. Before watching them with your child, ask them to recall the video to see how well they were listening. ;)

Spelling Test - Thursday

I will be moving the originally scheduled spelling test to Thrusday of this week. One more day of studying!!

!Happy Halloween!

Graphing Homework

On Friday, I sent home the homework that is due Tuesday. It was not necessarily intended to be done until Monday evening. This is because we have not yet discussed the y axis having increments of more than one, but rather 5's or 10's if necessary. We would use larger increments if we had data that exceeds an amount that can't be worked with due to space restraints.
This will be covered on Monday, however if you are confident in your ability to guide your child through this homework, please do!
Sorry for any confusion.

Another Happy Birthday!

Taymour...from our entire class, Happy Birthday to you! Enjoy your day.

Forest Valley Photos

It took awhile, but here they are. Enjoy!

Graphing Homework - Due Tuesday

Tonight you will find the pink clothing survey and an blank grid for your child to complete. They are to use the data they collected from their closet/dresser and place it in graph form on the grid. This is Due Tuesday, Nov.2.

and I forgot...

another very special boy celebrated his 8th birthday last week. Sweet Kian, I'm sorry...HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

Happy Birthday Aaron!

Wow...another 8 year old. Happy Birthday to Aaron and thank you to Mrs.Penaflor for the AMAZING cupcakes. Hope you enjoy your Birthday weekend Aaron!

Homework - Due Tomorrow - Friday, Oct. 29th.

In the green folder is homework requesting you to sit and list any food items that you serve for an event or feast. Please make sure this comes back tomorrow.

Halloween

My apologies for not posting something sooner. There are not BIG plans for Halloween so I didn't put much importance on informing everyone of the 'plan'.

Tomorrow morning there is movie scheduled. The middle of the day is tied up with Drama and Music and the final part of the day, 2pm-315pm, we will have our 'party'. I welcome treats of your choice but am not requesting them. I feel they will be hopped up on enough adrenaline that sweets are not necessary. I will leave it up to you.

Costumes can be worn in the afternoon and we will have a costume contest and play some games during that time as well.

FYI

This note is to inform families about a reoccuring problem in our class.

While you're waiting anxiously to meet your children at 3:15, you may often be wondering "where on earth is Ms Lowen's class? I've been waiting for 5 minutes...sometimes 10!!"

I promise you parents, time management is something I take VERY seriously. Begin on time is very important in all stages of life for all different reasons.

As November is quickly approaching, I'm sorry to say that the behaviour of the children, specifically between 3:00-3:15 is what ultimately makes us late.
The last 15 minutes of the day are spent doing our class jobs and getting ready for home. You'd think this is an easy task, but many children struggle at this time. They need MANY reminders of what is suppose to be done and what their role is. There are a handful of children who do this flawlessly and they know who they are. I'm asking families to discuss the importance of following through with class routines and more importantly, teacher directions/instructions.

At the end of the day when chaos strikes, is the time when the class gets an earful from me. Or more specifically, they get to see my bad side, a side that should never ever surface. I am required to address the problem on the spot, not the following day, so if you find yourself waiting, do not fret. They will emerge from exit door E eventually, maybe one by one, but it will happen.

If you have any questions or concerns, send them my way.
Thanks in advance for your ongoing support.

Spelling Homework - Due next Wednesday

Like last week, define 8 spelling words of your choice in your spelling booklet.

Spelling Lesson 6

Words with ar
car
far
arm
farm
star
start
smart
part
party
hard
heart
dark
mark
park
yard
startled
carpenter

DPA Winner

Today's DPA winner is Alex! I watched him closely all week and he was outstanding. Keep it up Alex!

Science Quiz - Wednesday, Oct. 27th

Today your child will be bringing home a yellow study guide. Next Wednesday, they will have a quiz in the afternoon. It will focus on the following: Plant products, plant parts and photosynthesis. Please review the sheet nightly to ensure success!

cRaZy HAT day

When do we ever get to wear a hat at school?! Tomorrow is the day so wear your craziest had to school and we can earn lots of points.

Grade 2 Spelling Words

Also in the green folder is a pink sheet with grade 2 spelling words. This is for reference only and can be used every now and then for practice.

Math Homework - due Friday

Tonight or tomorrow your child will need to conduct of clothing survey. The homework sheet can be found in the green folder or his/her bag.

Homework

Use your own words or a dictionary to define 8 spelling words of your choice.
Do this in your spelling book and bring it back next Wednesday.

Spelling Lesson 5

saw
paw
draw
straw
dawn
lawn
yawn
crawl
awful
aunt
haul
fault
because
water
wash
autumn
exhausted

It had to come sometime...

It seems like only yesterday that Ms. Kingstone joined our grade 3 class. She has been a wonderful addition to our classroom and I am so sad to announce that tomorrow is her last day. Please join me in thanking her and wishing her well on her next placement. Thank you for everything Ms.Kingstone, room 203 won't be the same without you.
All the best!

Spirit Days at Clairlea

This year, Clairlea is having a Spirit Day once a month (see below). On these specified days, students are invited to participate in the given spirit day. Each class will be visited by someone who will count the number of participants. At the end of the year, the class with the most participants will win a pizza party!

October 22nd - Hat Day
November 26th - Purple
December 17th - Clairlea Spirit Wear
January 14th - Canada Day
February 11th - Red and Pink Day
March 25th - Rainbow Day
April 29th - Glasses Day
May 27th - Sports Attire Day
June 17th - Crazy Hair Day

Studying our Spelling Words

At home, try this method of studying the spelling words
- Write each word on a cut-out of paper. Make a pile of the words.
- Choose one word at at time and study it by spelling it out loud repeatedly. If you are a visual learner, you may want to write the words repeatedly on a separate piece of scrap paper.
- Place the spelling word face-down and try spelling the word without looking.
- Don't move on the the next spelling word until you can master the previous.
- Once all the words have been studied, have a family member test you. You can either write the words or spell them out loud as they are given.
Happy Studying!

Overdue Books

There are number of children who have outstanding library books. Without bringing these books back, they are unable to sign out any more and really cannot benefit from the schools library. Please ensure that any books found in your home are sent back as soon as possible.

Please Check...

Tonight the spelling and math test were marked and sent home. Please review the tests with your child. Thank you.

DPA Winner

Sebastian proved himself very worthy of the DPA prize today! Nice Work. Who will it be next week??!

POP quiz

An addition and subtraction pop quiz was given today. You will find it in your child's bag.
A common error among some of the students is not paying close enough attention to the operation...that being - or +. Another error commonly made is when numbers are carried over but are not then added into the next column. These errors can be avoided by paying close attention. The basic steps are there but carelessness gets in the way.
Over the weekend, ensure that you are helping your child avoid problems like these. Thanks!

Another Link

Try this word problem - interactive game site. Copy and paste into your browser.

http://www.mathplayground.com/wordproblems.html

Adding and Subtracting Homework - Due Friday

Students have been provided with a math homework sheet that consists of adding and subtracting with borrowing and carrying. There are also a few word problems. This is due on Friday.

Spelling Homework - Due next Wednesday

For this weeks spelling homework, students are to find 3 rhyming words to go with each spelling word. The rhyming words cannot be taken from the spelling list.
For example: The word is cream - stream, beam, team.
Please complete this weeks spelling homework in the spelling booklet.

Math test postponed...

I've decided to move our scheduled math test to Monday, Oct. 18th.
A large portion of the class will benefit greatly from further exposure and practice.

Spelling lesson #4 - words with ng and nk

ring
rang
rung
string
strong
long
spring
thing
finger
wink
drink
blink
think
thank
bunk
shrink
stranger

Another winner!

Thanks to mother nature doing what she does best, the children were taken outside Friday for their DPA session. The award was given to Charlie who did an outstanding job. Keep it up Charlie!

Our DPA Winner is....

Last week, we incorporated our DPA and Terry Fox run to see who would be most deserving of the award. And the winner is JOSHUA! Well done Josh.
This week I've posted new exercise cards around the room. Let's see who adapts the best.

Spelling Lesson #3 - Words with a- and be-

about
above
across
again
ago
agree
alike
alive
alone
along
become
belong
below
beside
between
beforehand
alongside

Useful Math Sites

It is time once again for a Math test! I will be giving the class a test next Thursday, Oct.14 on addition and subtraction of 2 and 3 digit numbers. There will also be problem solving questions included. Visit the sites below to further enhance these concepts.

http://www.internet4classrooms.com/skill_builders/addition_review_math_third_3rd_grade.htm

I've provided the site below in the past but this time you need to click on the addition and/or subtraction option.

http://www.kidport.com/GRADE3/MATH/MATHINDEX.HTM

Word Problems - An interactive website

http://www.gamequarium.com/problemsolving.html

Spelling List #2 - Words with Long i

find
kind
mind
wind
blind
grind
behind
mild
wild
child
children
die
lie
pie
tie
kindness
wilderness

This weeks homework: Put each word in a sentence! Please do this in your spelling book or you can type it out! Underline each spelling word.

Welcome Joshua and Apilan!

I am so excited and pleased to welcome 2 new boys to our family. Joshua and Apilan started off the year in Mrs. Hawkins 2/3 class but due to increasing numbers in the primary level, a bit of shuffling had to take place. So now we're up to 22 - 5 girls, 17 boys!

Forest Valley...here we come!

Here is just a few reminders of how to be prepared for our outdoor trip tomorrow.
The weather looks like its going to cooperate. Please dress accordingly.

Children are encouraged to bring their school bag so they can store the following:
-a couple snacks
-an extra pair of socks in the event of wet grounds
-a hat
-a light jacket that can be removed and stored in their bag

Children are encouraged to wear a pair of jeans and a t-shirt with a remove able sweater on top.
Sunglasses and sanitizer are always useful, and applying sunscreen before leaving the house is also recommended.

I'm inviting all families to have a talk with their son or daughter about proper school trip behaviour. Especially on the bus and around the camp fire. It is not meant to be a day of policing or disciplining, but rather a fun, hassle-free day.
Thanks for your support!

Please be aware...

At afternoon recess today, there was an incident between 2-3 boys in our class. It involved fighting, but more disturbingly, it involved many bystanders. First of all, I am extremely disappointed that something like this would happen between kids in this class, and second, the fact that so many of their friends stood by and cheered them on, or tired to intervene, means that we have a lot of learning to do.
We spent an hour this afternoon discussing the steps to take when things like this happen. Its important for all to remember that there is a NO TOUCHING policy at Clairlea and we are not to put our hands on anyone for whatever reason. The horse play that takes place at recess ultimately ends up in physical violence which results in precious class time spent ironing out the issue. I am pleading with parents to have serious sit down chats about proper behaviour at school, and often.
Please be aware that there may be times when problems occur close to the end of the day and as a result, a later dismissal may be in order(late dismissal is a gentle term for detention). I will not be able to warn you of this, but it could happen at any time. In the event of a detention, whether whole class or individual, I will inform the office, that's the best I can do.
Regarding the incident today, the individuals involved whether they were bystanders or culprits, will be staying in for recess tomorrow. Specific consequences will be revealed at that time.

Spelling test tomorrow

This is just a reminder that after lunch tomorrow the children will be given their first spelling test. The homework's spelling sentence are also due at this time. Please keep in mind that the sentences can be written directly in the spelling book. PLEASE remember to send the book back to school tomorrow as new words will be given out!

Your assistance is required!

Hello all!!
In an attempt to keep in touch with families, I collected your email addresses on Curriculum Night. Because I did not make the spaces big enough,you had to squish your letters and as a result, many of them are difficult to make out. Even though I've tried my best to figure them out, they are still being sent back to me as an "undeliverable" email address. I am hoping that everyone can do me a big favour and email my account from the email address they use most frequently.
Please send me a 'test' email to jessica.lowen@tdsb.on.ca and that way I will have a readable email address on file. Thanks so much!!

Out with the old, in with the new!

Today we cleaned out our desks.
Our classroom is equipped with all the necessary tools to get through the day.
I know that I originally welcomed students to bring in their own school supplies but as the year has progressed we're finding that they are not necessary and in fact cause more unnecessary distractions and interruptions. Please be advised that your child's belongings have been packing into his/her bag and can be left at home. The other option is to simply leave them in their bags and they can use them during times that are suitable. Thanks for your cooperation and understanding.

There's always next week...

So, we have heat + wind + Friday + no Ms. Kingstone...what do you get? A hairy afternoon in room 203!Not much was accomplished this afternoon - but we did have a good time drawing, reading, playing and listening to music!
Have a great weekend!

YAY Trevis!!

Today our DPA prize recipipient was Trevis. Well Done!

Acrostic Mania!

As an extension to our Terry Fox discussions and research, the class has been puttting together acrostic poems. We came up with a number of words that related to Terry and pairs of students decided on one they wanted to use for their poem.
The poems will be posted around the gym tomorrow. Here's a poem we put together as a class:

Raise money for cancer
Unique
Number of km/day=42
Never gave up
Incredible person
Nice
Great spirit

One Word...AMAZING!!

Well, I was able to correct the tests last night.
The entire class aced the test...92% overall class average!!
I'm so proud of everyone for their hard work. Keep it up!

1st Test in Grade 3

I will make every attempt to mark and return the tests this Friday. In the past, I have asked for test to be signed and returned. This year, I am confident that the tests will get seen and reviewed by a parent, and therefore it can stay at home. In the event of a very low score, a phone call home will be made to discuss the results.

The Dirt on Soil...

Where does soil come from?
Well we discovered that answer today. After much debate,we learned that soil comes from ROCKS!!! Yes, thanks to EROSION, we have this wonderful thing called soil. Erosion is the wearing down of rocks and other surfaces. There are various ways for rocks and surfaces to be worn down. Watch the 3 Bill Nye videos below to see how. Until I have figured out the way to post videos, you'll have to go to Youtube.com and search the following titles:

erosion1of3
erosion2of3
erosion3of3

Spelling Program

In addition to our weekly homework, students will be receiving their weekly spelling words TODAY! (Words are derived from the a Scholastic Spelling Program)

Here's how the program works:
- The children are given a small booklet for this program.
- On Wednesdays, a pre-test of 17 words they haven't been tested on yet this year will be sited to them.
- Their pre-test will be marked and scored by a fellow classmate.
- Corrections will be made.
- In addition to studying the list, an assignment will be given to the words (i.e. put all words in sentences, define each word, etc)
- The assignment will be due, and the test will be conducted on the following Wednesday.
- Also, at that time, a new set of words will be given.

Spelling List #1
Spelling Concept - HOMOPHONES
A homophone is a word that is pronounced the same as another word but differs in meaning. For example: I just walked up a flight of stairs and watch as that bird takes flight!

main
mane
sail
sale
weak
week
heal
heel
right
write
side
sighed
road
rode
rowed
wade
weighed

The assignment this week is to put each word in a proper sentence. Don't forget capitals and periods!

FYI

The pink sheet that came home today was simply a practice and/or review. It does not need to be signed or returned. Everyone did quite well. Tomorrow's test should be a breeze!

Cheeeeeeeeeeese!!!!

Well they're not professionaly done, but we thought we'd give you a sneak-peak at our class photo.

DPA - Directed Physical Activity

Each week we perform DPA 3 times. Exercising is an important part of life and so we make sure that on the days we don't have gym, we will raise our heart rate in another way. Each week, students are observed very closely for showing good participation, effort, enthusiasm, and technique, and each week an award is given out to the student who did their best. So far, Calliope and Christopher have been the DPA award recipients - Congratulations! Who will it be this week?
Stay tuned!

Bring in your Books!

If anyone has a chapter book or a series of books they like to read, bring it into class so that during our reading block, you can jump into one of your favourites. Don't forget to put your name inside.

Picture Day

Tomorrow is our picture day! Please come prepared with your photo form.

Terry Fox Research...Homework

Go to google tonight and type in Terry Fox. See what you can come up with. If you find something interesting and can print it off, please do. If you are just reading some articles, then make sure you're able to share some information with the class tomorrow.

To all Soccer Fans!!

This morning, Hafsa and Autumn versed each other in soccer...it was a tie!!

this afternoon, Calliope and Joelle played and Calli's team won 1-0. Way-to-Go!!

Reminders

-Thursdays homework is due on Monday, Sept. 20.
-Picture day is Tuesday, Sept. 21
-Forest Valley forms and $$ due on Thursday Sept. 23.
-Scholastic Book Order $$ due Tuesday, Sept. 28.

Interactive Math Site

This morning in computers the children worked on rounding, putting numbers in expanded form, and place value. Its a useful activity to help reinforce what they have been learning this week and last. Please ensure that you visit it over the course of next week to further prepare your son or daughter for the test!

http://www.kidport.com/GRADE3/MATH/MATHINDEX.HTM

this link will need to be copied and pasted into your address bar.

Thank You!

Parents and Family Memebers of my lovely students! Thank you so much for coming out lastnight. It was a nice surprise to see so many faces...I'm excited about the enthusiam and dedication you all have to your childs learning and growth in grade 3.

Don't Forget!

Tomorrow night is Curriculum Night, better known as Meet the Teacher Night!
Please come out for 630pm and up to room 203. Myself and Ms. Kingston are looking forward to it!

Testing Testing!

In just a short while I will be giving the class a math test. On Wednesday, September 22, they will be tested on Number Sense and Numeracy expectations. The test will consist of the following:
-Rounding numbers to the nearest ten, hundred and thousand
-writing numbers in words up to 100
-writing numbers in expanded form
-ordering numbers
-place value
-adding two-digit numbers after they have been rounded to the nearest ten

The students can better prepare themselve for this test by practicing the above concepts at home.

World Cup Soccer

The primary players have been assigned to a team and the games start today!
Stayed tuned for daily results.

When you're reading...follow-up with some writing or discussion

The primary division, here at Clairlea, is working on a common writing form this month. Retelling provides an opportunity for readers to process what they have read by organizing and explaining it to others. Retelling develops students’ story grammar because they must identify crucial points and the support information. It also reinforces sequencing since it demands remembering information, events, and processes. It encourages interacting with the text from a variety of perspectives: their own, their audience’s, and the author’s.
Retelling supports good reading because students must engage in repeated readings of the text, which supports fluency. Naturally, retelling is its own form of assessment – since the student’s recitation confirms his/her reading of it and reveals the extent of his/her comprehension. Research indicates that retelling increases both the quantity and quality of what is comprehended. Teachers can use retelling as a way to build silent reading fluency and to measure comprehension. Having a student retell allows a teacher to assess a student’s understanding. Retelling allows teachers to gain insight into what a student views as important and also how the student organizes information. A checklist of what is to be covered is helpful as the student retells the text. This strategy can determine whether the student knows the main idea, can make inferences, identify concepts, make generalizations, and connect to the text.

When you have the time to sit with your son or daughter, do some retelling with them for extra practice.

Cursive Continues...

We are inching our way into more difficult letters! But nothing seems to be able to stop these grade 3's...they can handle just about anything!
Here is an update on the letters we've learned so far:

e, l, i, t, a, d, o, c, g, q, s and r

Rounding Numbers

In Math today we will be working on Rounding numbers. See the rules for rounding below. Refer to them if your son or daughter is struggling with the homework.

Rules For Rounding Numbers

Numbers can be rounded to the nearest ten, the nearest hundred, the nearest thousand, the nearest million, and so on.

If the number you are rounding is followed by 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9, round the number up. Example: 79 rounded to the nearest ten is 80

If the number you are rounding is followed by 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4, round the number down. Example: 74 rounded to the nearest ten is 70

All the numbers to the right of the place you are rounding to become zeros.

Rounded numbers are easier to remember and easier to use.

Remember, Rounded Numbers are...
-easier to work with in your head
-only approximate - they do not tell you the exact answer
-used when you just have to be close to the exact answer

Homework!

Some homework was sent home in the green folder today. Its due Wednesday and is a reflection of what we've been doing in class.
There were also 2 notices sent home. One pertaining to lunch time procedures and the other to head lice. Please read!

Homework and Agendas

This is just a reminder that if your son or daughter did not bring their homework back today, its to be back, in the green folder on Monday.
I will be sending the agendas home today as well to those who have submitted their $6...please ensure that it is placed back in your child's backpack for Monday. It should always remain there. Thanks!

Drama in Drama??

Today the children had Drama with Ms.Park. Each 5 day cycle, they will get to see Ms. Park only once for 40 minutes. Unfortunately, Ms. Park did not have very many positive things to say about their time in Drama. She said there was a lot of interuptions due to poor behaviour and listening skills. Please have a talk with your child tonight about the importance of treating all teachers equally and respectfully. Because their time in Drama is so limited, its even more important for them to be on their extra good behaviour. I will continue to enforce this daily and hope to have your support. Thanks in advance!

More with Cursive...

Today the letters got a little bit more challenging. As a result we were only able to cover the letter 'a' and 'd'. They are both very similar in formation.

Math --- Place Value

In math today we learned about place value. Numbers such as 72 have 2 digits - 7 and 2. The 7 is in the tens place and tells you that there are 7 groups of 10. Therefore, the 7 has a value of 70. The right or last digit is in the ones place and tells you that there are 2 ones. Therefore, it has a value of 2.

Please check the green folder for tonight's homework. Math and cursive writing is the focus. The homework can be submitted tomorrow, but is not due back until Monday. If the homework is not complete for tomorrow, please keep it at home but bring the green folder back in the event that there are notices to go home.

Happy Birthday Alex!

Alex turns 8 today, although he was trying to convince us that he was turning 10...sneaky sneaky. On behave of our class I'd like to wish Alexander a very Happy Birthday and hope all his wishes come true. Thanks go out to Mrs. Kendik who provided treats for the class.

Cursive is so EASY!!!

This morning we were busy working on our cursive writing skills. We started with the simplest of lowercase letters, that being 'e'. Once we mastered our e's, we moved on to l, i and t. We were able to write a few different words at the end of our practice session including it, tile, tilt, lit, and little. Tonight, I would like your children to show you what they've learned. Ask them to show you how to make these letters. I promise you will be impressed!

Welcome Ms. Kingston!

I am very excited and pleased to welcome Elizabeth Kingston to our class! Ms. Kingston is an experienced Montessori teacher looking to transfer her extensive knowledge, skills and experience to the public school sector. She is currently a teacher candidate through Canisus College in Buffalo and we are very lucky to have her for 7 weeks, where she will play a key role in our classroom community. I'd like to thank Ms. Kingston in advance for all her help and dedication to our class. We're happy to have you!

We did it!

Well, the day flew by and a lot was taken in by your little grade 3. There was a lot of talking and sharing and for the most part, it was a really good, productive day. Now, we didn't do any math, or science, or language, but we did establish our classroom expectations that include the following:

• Listen Attentively
• No talking over others
• Keep hands to yourself
• Have Respect (for all and everything)
• No bad language
• No put downs
• Be responsible
• Be honest
• Be kind and Helpful

All of us signed our list of expectations (aka rules) and promised to follow them to the best of our ability. I will be sure to keep you posted on your child's attention to these over the course of the year.

In your child's bag you will find the green folder with a yellow tab. Please review the contents of the folder and keep all items at home in a convenient spot. The brown envelop has forms that must be read and signed and sent back ASAP. Please send them back in the envelop.

I reminded the class that there is no homework tonight but expect that everyone will be reading aloud with a parent or sibling over the course of the evening.

Tomorrow they have physed (gym) first thing and should be prepared with their gym shoes. Students have received their agendas (which I've requested stay at school for now) and the $6 can be sent in any time this week.

Lastly, I'd like to thank Mrs. Gomes for sending in a back-to-school treat. Very unexpected and much appreciated! Mmmm...cupcakes

Happy First Day!

Call me crazy, but I am excited for the new school year and I hope my grade 3 families are equally excited!
I hope everyone received my letters in good time. My sincerest apologies go out to those who only received it a few days ago. I was unable to find some addresses online and therefore had to wait until the secretaries were in the office.
I just want to let everyone know that agendas will be distributed this week. There is a $6 charge which can be submitted during the first week of school. The agenda serves a great purpose for many things and will be used frequently this year.
Also this year, a green folder with a yellow label will be be used to carry homework and notices, permission forms etc, and should be always left in your child's bag. So often the items above get lost along the way home or misplaced and this folder should eliminate that problem. If you are sending anything to school with your child, ensure that it is in the folder. Also, be sure to assist your child in checking it nightly.
Lastly, I will do my best to keep this blog updated daily. Be sure to check it regularily for new postings.


Important Dates to Remember:

Thursday, Sept. 16 - Curriculum Night
Tuesday, Sept. 21 - Picture Day
Thursday, Sept. 30 - Forest Valley Day Trip (permission forms due Sept.23)

Forest Valley Cookout

As you know we will be heading to Forest Valley on the 13th of April. I was given the option to have the kids bring a bagged lunch or have the experience of roasting hot dogs over a fire. To make the trip the most memorable, I thought a cookout would be a good idea. The cost of the lunch has been included in the price of the trip. The lunch includes 2 hot dogs, 1 drink and 1 fruit. Today a request sheet was sent home. Please fill out the slip and send it back by April 7th. Thanks!

Dates to Remember

April 13th - all day trip to Forest Valley

April 19th - all day trip to Pioneer Village

April 22th - Spring Concert at SATEC

May 30th-June 4th - EQAO testing

Spelling Lesson 25

scout
scream
scrub
skunk
skin
slip
sled
smell
smooth
snack
spell
spend
straight
sweet
swamp
scribble
snowflakes

Congratulations!

Yesterday our two recipients of the Honesty award were Ali and George! Congratulations on your accomplishments!

Recognition Awards - FAIRNESS

I'd like to extend a huge congratulations to JULIAN and JOSHUA for receiving the fairness award at this months recognition assembly. For the month of March, we will be focusing on displaying Honesty in and out of the classroom.

Spelling Lesson 23

words with the sound of air

care
dare
scare
share
stare
parents
air
airplane
chair
fair
fairy
hair
pair
stairs
their
everywhere
square

Notices

2 Forms were sent home today:

#1 - EQAO practice booklet form ($4) - a 116pg booklet that the students will greatly benefit from in preparation for the assessment in May. The sooner the booklet is purchased, the better.

#2 - Parent-Teacher interview form - term 2 interviews are not mandatory but may be requested by parents if I have not already done so. Please return the form as soon as possible to secure the time slot you want.

The Olympic Torch

The Torch is here!
Our class is trying to raise funds for Free the Children by giving students of Clairlea the oportunity to have their photo taken with the torch for only $2.
Please help us build a school in Africa and send in your toonies today!
Your support is greatly appreciated.

Practice Practice Practice!

As you may already know, our class will be taking part in the spring concert this year whose date is set for Thursday, April 22nd. As that may seem like a long time from now, practice time during school hours will be limited due to time and space. So please allow your child to seek out and practice our routine on YouTube.com - “Evolution of Dance”. Essentially we are doing this gentleman’s routine and its going to be SO much fun.

Thank you in advance for your assistance with this endeavor. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call me or send me an email.

Spelling Lesson 22 - Vowel Sounds oo and u

cool
fool
roof
noon
balloon
cocoon
goose
moose
loose
lose
choose
flute
rude
mule
music
shampoo
kangaroo

Spelling Lesson 20 - words that sound the same

bird
girl
first
circle
circus
hurt
turn
nurse
turtle
purple
word
work
worm
world
were
furniture
thirsty

Candy Grams

Mrs. Hawkins grade 5 class is asking that each class contribute 5-10 bags of candy to the Valentines Day Haiti fundraiser. If you can, send in a bag of candy as soon as possible so the candy grams can be put together. These will go on sale next Thursday and Friday. Thanks in advance for your contributions!

Helping Haiti

The students in Mrs. Hawkins class are making huge efforts to raise money for the Haiti crisis. Little dolls have been made by Clairlea students are are selling for $2. Mrs. Smith, a parent in her class is painting nails for $2 as well. I got mine done today! Please PLEASE help us help Haiti restore what has been lost and donate what you can. Amounts shown are minimum and of course more is welcome!

Speling Words - Lesson 19 - Words with oi or oy

oil
boil
soil
spoil
join
point
poison
noise
choice
voice
boy
joy
toy
enjoy
royal
*oyster
*loyalty

Volunteers Needed!

I am needing 4 parent helpers on the afternoon of February 3rd. We will be visited by a scientist and she requires 4 adults to run 4 stations. She will guide you through everything, and I guaranteed it will be a blast! First 4 parents to respond will get a confirmation from me!
(You will need to be here by 12:20 and will be required to stay until 3:30).

Teamwork Recognition Award

Tuesday afternoon, awards were given out to those who consistently demonstrate teamworking skills in and outside of the classroom. Madison and Jessica were chosen as they attempt to work cooperatively, inclusively and are always in support of others. Well done girls!

A few reminders..

• I will be away next week from Monday Jan. 18-Friday Jan. 22nd. The supply teacher who will be taking my place is Mr. Cripps, not Mrs. John.
• Please remind your child about appropriate and respectful behaviour for supply teachers. If we both have high expectations (teamwork) then next week should run very smoothly. Thanks in advance for your help!
• Pizza lunch forms are due next Thursday, Jan. 21st.
• During the milder weather, children are playing out in the wet snow and as a result, are getting their pants, socks and boots soaked. Sending an extra pair of socks, if not two, and a pair of pants, would be very beneficial during these times.

Spelling Lesson 17 - Words with ch or tch

coach
couch
ranch
bench
pinch
punch
crunch
catch
itch
match
watch
stretch
ditch
pitch
sandwich
ostrich
launch

Spelling Lesson 16 - Words with sh or ch

chin
check
checkers
chicken
beach
reach
teacher
march
shape
shark
shine
shy
brush
finish
machine
fashion
chapter

My Absence

Welcome back from the winter holidays! I hope that everyone is well rested and ready to begin a new and exciting year.
This notice is to inform you that from Monday, January 18th to Friday, January 22nd I will be a supervisor for the Grade 6 trip to Kearney. A supply teacher has been arranged for the five days and the children are familiar with her. They will be in very good hands. Her name is
Mrs. A. Johns and if you have any special instructions, questions and/or concerns throughout the week please direct them to her. All tutoring sessions for that week will be made up upon my return.