Newsletter Info

Science
Our new unit on Water has begun. Ask your child about the results of Super Ice Bowl I. In that exciting competition we learned what is required to change ice into water in the most efficient way possible. This week, we will become better acquainted with an important tool: the thermometer. We will practice taking the temperature of ice as it melts. This will enable us to practice the habits that good scientists use: chart making, taking accurate measurements, and recording observations. We will use the data from each group to make one large class chart, which will focus our discussion on the importance of similar data/explaining data discrepancies. We will also do some research in the textbook on the many uses of water; this will be a graded assignment where the textbook can be used as a guide. We will then move on to condensation and evaporation. Look for more info next week.

Note: Please be patient with us as we work to score the "Create-a-Lab" projects. Due to many student absences and the time required to complete the evaporation labs that students proposed, we are still finishing up the scoring rubrics.

Social Studies
Our study of ancient Rome continues with a more focused look at the intricacies of the Roman government system. We will learn about the voting practices and assembly system that was used. We will also learn about the highly organized system of roads and aqueducts that were utilized in this society for efficient transport of armies, goods, and water. There will be a quiz on Friday. Don't forget to start planning ahead for the Toga Celebration on Februrary 18th. Remember, costumes are optional, but if you choose to wear one, school clothes must be worn underneath.


Valentine's Day Ice Cream Social
Thanks so much for all your generous donations and support. Our party is going to be a great success! Please remember to send all items in by Friday, February 11th. Also, if your child plans to make cards, they must include one for all members of their homeroom class. We want to be sure everyone feels loved on this special day!


In our Math Investigation studies we have been focusing on polygons! The students know the attributes of a polygon (i.e. it has 3 or more straight, closed sides). We discussed and sorted examples and non-examples of polygons and we had a great time using Power Polygons! This week, the students will sort quadrilaterals according to a variety of criteria and we will discuss the properties of quadrilaterals. Ask your child the relationship between squares and rectangles. We will have a Math Quiz on Tuesday. Homework Sheet #20 will be checked in class on Wednesday and Friday.