Conflicts, Quotients, and Coastal States

I admit, it was a stretch with the "k" sounds in the title, but I think I pulled it off!  Anyway, here is what's happening in the Room 25 this week and next:

Language Arts
Word Study
Due to the shortened week, we will not be adding any new word study words this week.  We will end the week with List 11 (compound words) and have the quiz on Thursday.  Here are the words for the week.

Reading
This week and next we will be focusing on Mood/Tone a fictional story, as well as conflict.  Conflict consists of two types: External Conflict (Person vs. Person, Person vs. Nature, or Person vs. Society) and Internal Conflict (Person vs. Self).  Currently we are reading the novel Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume; using it as a example text to find examples of Mood/Tone and Conflict.  I will be assigning additional reading for homework that can also double as the required 30-minutes each night.

Writing

Currently we are writing a persuasive essay around the controversial topic of whether backyard trampolines should be banned or not.  The conversations have been heating and I've heard many gruesome stories of accidents in many families!  STAY SAFE!

Social Studies

Last week we began our next unit: The Southeast Region.  Students will be bringing home maps of the region that include the states and capitals.  The test over this regions states and capitals will be after Thanksgiving break (November 29th).  In addition to the geography, we will be focusing on the rich history of this region, including slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement.  

On top of all that, the last few days have been filled with talk of the presidential election.  We have done some research in class about the candidates and even participated in a mock election hosted by the 5th grade classes!

Math

This week and next we will finish-up our division unit.  I am taking a few extra days next week to make sure we have a mutual understandings of the division strategies before assessing everyone.  Fractions are coming up next, and I want to make sure we are all ready!  If you are wondering HOW I am teaching these strategies, click on the pictures below for a refresher.

               Long Division                                                                Repeated Subtraction

A few more important announcements:

• There will be confirmation letters going home tomorrow. letting you know what time your parent/teacher conference is scheduled for.  If there are any changes you need to make, please return them ASAP.
• Next Tuesday, November 15th, is Parent/Grandparent visitation day for the school.  The fourth grade teachers will be in a mandatory meeting all day, so I am inviting you to visit on Wednesday, November 16th!
• Next Friday, November 18th, we will be performing our Pandora's Box plays in the classroom at 12:30.  You are all invited to come and watch the performances!  I will send home reminders next week!

Have a wonderful rest of the week!  If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.