This week is probably one of the last "normal" weeks we will have this year. There is a LOT getting ready to happen! I will update the Upcoming Events page as soon as I have new information for you. You should have received paperwork for one of our field trips next week. Did you know we actually have a SECOND field trip next week as well? The information regarding that trip is going home today.
This week in Language Arts we are cycling through some of our previously taught concepts in reading through stations. This gives me an opportunity to work with small groups and check for understanding on a variety of tasks we learned earlier in the year. In addition we have done some practice with paired passages to ensure the students have the needed skills to work through that portion of the STAAR test next week. Typically, the paired passages portion of the test is the most challenging for students due to the sustained attention they must have to read and go back into the text often to check for answers. Students know how to apply and show strategies. This helps them check for accuracy and know that they are correct when they select their answers. Many of the answer choices are similar. It takes a very critical eye, as well as determination and stamina, to work successfully. ALL students can do it. All are prepared. Just remind your kiddos to take their time and do the best they can.
We have been doing quite a bit of perspective writing in class, and I'm absolutely amazed at the voice and creativity I'm seeing in your children's work. The latest perspective writing was yesterday. Students were asked to write from the point of view of a farmer in 1861 who had to make a choice about whether to fight with the Union army or the Confederate army. They incorporated what they had learned about what each side was fighting for in their writing. Some chose to write a story, some a journal, but so many used voice and tried to include lingo they thought portrayed a farmer of the time. This is a group of fantastic writers!
In Social Studies we are finishing up our study of Texas in the Civil War. Many students are still very curious about the war. They will learn more about it next year in American History, but there are so many great websites out there that they can access through the Cloud for further study.
Enjoy the rest of your week!