Families of 4C,
My sentiments will be particularly gushy this week, as we head into the final week of the 2018-2019 academic year. It has truly been a wonderful school year with all of your children, and we have certainly been through growth and many changes, both as a class and as individuals. I feel exceedingly fortunate and blessed to have been given the group of wonderful thinkers and achievers that make up this year's 4C cohort. I could not have hand-selected a more fitting group of students to have in my first class as a new teacher, and I'm thankful to have gotten to know each of them, and you, this year. Thank you, parents, for supporting our students and our classroom this year. I consider myself lucky to have been absorbed into the Archway Arete family!
This week will not be typical like the others we have had this year; however, we will be keeping with the theme of sharing our love of knowledge and learning with one another! Assignments in class this week will be largely based on participation, and it is my goal to have as little homework as possible.
Monday and Tuesday will be full days, and Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday are all half days.
On Wednesday, students will be cleaning out everything from their desks and taking their items home.
On Thursday, we will be doing virtue shoutouts for everyone in our class!
On Friday, we will be having our class celebration and signing yearbooks (sign-up to help with the class party will be sent Monday)! Friday is also a SPIRIT WEAR day!
In my early preparations for the next school year, I am wanting to gauge interest in weekly grade reports. Please take a moment to fill out this google form with your input regarding grade reports, so I may improve the experience for the parents of my students next year. Thanks! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe_TbhWSEEDjzThS-QIzXwwznW6VayMeuY4_nA5E7DoZZh9oA/viewform?usp=sf_link
This Week:
Science: On Monday, students will be presenting their health brochures if they would like to. All final brochures are due Monday, though presenting is completely optional.
Poetry: Any students who did not get to recite their poem on Friday will finish reciting on Monday.
Math: For math, we will be reviewing any concepts students would like to spend more time reviewing by doing extra practice as a class. We do not have any more math tests for this year.
Grammar/Writing: For writing, students will practice some creative writing using previous Spalding words, but there will be no new Spalding words this week.
Idioms/Proverbs: Students will be learning new idioms and proverbs, as well as doing some socratic seminars on virtue.
Literature: This week, we will be reading Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh!
If you've made it this far in my final blog post of the year, I also implore you to encourage any of your kids to join yearbook club next year! I'm looking for a group of creative and hardworking fifth graders to help me next year (especially those interested in photography and/or writing), and I know many of our kiddos in 4C this year would add incredible value to that team! ;)
Have a marvelous Summer!
--Mrs. Conforti
Sunday, May 19, 2019
Monday, May 13, 2019
Week of May 13-17
Families of 4C,
This week will be our final full week of the school year, as next week is mostly half days.
The final day of math tutoring will be on Monday, May 13. There will be no tutoring on Thursday, or for the rest of the year.
Grade reports will be sent out by Wednesday of this week. I apologize for the delay in the week 8 grade report. My migraines have gotten me a little behind on grading and sending out reports. Thanks for your understanding!
All missing/absent/makeup work is due this Thursday, May 16. Any late work turned in after Thursday will not be taken for a grade.
Testing Schedule This Week:
This Week:
Writing/Grammar: Students will be writing their comparison essays on The Wonderful Wizard of Oz this week.
History: Students will be taking their final history test of the year this week on Tuesday May 14, and will take their final quiz of the year on Monday, May 13.
Literature: Students will be watching The Wizard of Oz this week and will write comparison essays between the 1939 film adaptation and the book.
Math: Students will learn about tessellations and symmetry this week, and will spend the week preparing for the Singapore Math Assessment that they will take on Friday, May 17. This test does not impact their overall math grade.
Poem: Students should continue to study "George Washington" in preparation to recite the poem on Friday, May 17.
Greek and Latin Roots: The final test over all 100 roots will be this Wednesday, May 15.
Science: Students will be taking their final science test of the year on Monday, May 13 over the respiratory system. Throughout the week, students will be creating heath brochures with the information they have learned this year.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 29 words, balance ----- disappear. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you have a great week!
--Mrs. Conforti
This week will be our final full week of the school year, as next week is mostly half days.
The final day of math tutoring will be on Monday, May 13. There will be no tutoring on Thursday, or for the rest of the year.
Grade reports will be sent out by Wednesday of this week. I apologize for the delay in the week 8 grade report. My migraines have gotten me a little behind on grading and sending out reports. Thanks for your understanding!
All missing/absent/makeup work is due this Thursday, May 16. Any late work turned in after Thursday will not be taken for a grade.
Testing Schedule This Week:
- Monday (5/13)
- Math 11.5 A on Volume
- History Quiz ch.1-8
- Science Test Respiratory System
- Tuesday (5/14)
- History Test ch. 1-9
- Wednesday (5/15)
- Roots Test
- Thursday (5/16)
- All late work due
- Friday (5/17)
- Singapore Math Test
- "George Washington" Poetry Recitations
- Spalding Test
This Week:
Writing/Grammar: Students will be writing their comparison essays on The Wonderful Wizard of Oz this week.
History: Students will be taking their final history test of the year this week on Tuesday May 14, and will take their final quiz of the year on Monday, May 13.
Literature: Students will be watching The Wizard of Oz this week and will write comparison essays between the 1939 film adaptation and the book.
Math: Students will learn about tessellations and symmetry this week, and will spend the week preparing for the Singapore Math Assessment that they will take on Friday, May 17. This test does not impact their overall math grade.
Poem: Students should continue to study "George Washington" in preparation to recite the poem on Friday, May 17.
Greek and Latin Roots: The final test over all 100 roots will be this Wednesday, May 15.
Science: Students will be taking their final science test of the year on Monday, May 13 over the respiratory system. Throughout the week, students will be creating heath brochures with the information they have learned this year.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 29 words, balance ----- disappear. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you have a great week!
--Mrs. Conforti
Monday, May 6, 2019
Week of May 6-10
Families of 4C,
Incredible to think that we only have three weeks remaining in your student’s fourth grade year! As the year is coming to a close, students are feeling the itch for summer early. A number of them, way more than normal, did poorly on the last math test on composite figures. We gave each student 6 minutes to look over their corrected first attempt, and gave them the opportunity to try again for a better score. Many students are missing points from not reading carefully or from not completing the entire problem. Please support your child by reminding them to give the same level of effort in these last few weeks that they have trained to give toward their studies throughout the year. I don't want to see them practice bad habits right before they leave for the summer and prepare for fifth grade.
This class of scholars continue to impress me constantly with their behavior and academic and moral virtue. Our group had excellent etiquette as audience members during the Spring Concert, and represented our school as well-behaved scholars on the field trip to A.T Still University. During the field trip, our students were complimented multiple times on their scientific inquisitiveness, knowledge of the cardiovascular system, and diligent note-taking! I have been exceptionally fortunate as a first year teacher to have a group of kids that I can trust so much to be positive leaders.
This Week:
Writing/Grammar: This week, students will dive into poetry. Each night, students will have a poem to write if there isn't time to finish it during class. This week, I will be grading students on effort instead of the quality of work. Poetry isn't easy. Some consider it the highest form of writing. It will be a good challenge for them, and all I ask of them is their best effort. Some may find they are pretty good at it and enjoy it.
History: Students will be taking their final history test of the year next week and their last quizzes this week. Please see the study guide attached to this post below that Mr. Naaktgeboren has provided.
Literature: Students will continue reading The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Next week, students will be watching the 1939 film adaptation, The Wizard of Oz, and writing an essay comparing and contrasting the two mediums. (This is my personal favorite film of all time, and I am having difficulty containing my excitement!)
Math: Students will prepare for the Unit 1-7 cumulative test that they will take on Thursday. After that, they will spend time preparing for the Great Hearts Singapore assessment. This assessment is meant to gauge their understanding of key strands taught by the Singapore Math program. The GH Singapore assessment does not impact the student's math grade.
Poem: Students should continue to study "George Washington" in preparation to recite the poem on Friday, May 17.
Greek and Latin Roots: The students should be studying all 100 roots in preparation for the end of quarter Greek and Latin roots test which will cover all one hundred roots. However, the assessment this week is only over roots 94-96, and students will learn the last three roots for the year!
Science: Students will learn about breathing, lung ailments, and will be making a brochure about living a healthy lifestyle. Students will take their unit test on the respiratory system next week.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, agreement ----- attorney. On Monday, they will take their final 50-word spelling test of the year. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
History Quiz Study Guide
History: Early Presidents Quiz
1. What did Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson disagree about?
a. whether manufacturing or farming was more important
b. if there should be more small towns or large cities
c. whether the central government should be strong or weak
d. all of the above
2. What is impressment?
a. forcing members of one country into the service of another country
b. having a good opinion of someone
c. taking soldiers captive during a war
d. forcing citizens to pay for their country’s war
3. Which position did George Washington NOT hold?
a. president
b. vice president
c. president of the Constitutional Convention
d. commander in chief of the Continental Army
4. Which branches of government were established by the Constitution?
a. executive, legislative, judicial
b. executive, legislative, treasury
c. cabinet, legislative, judicial
d. the legislative, judicial, war department
5. Which of these is part of the judicial system?
a. President’s Cabinet
b. Department of State
c. Supreme Court
d. Department of the Interior
6. Which states donated the land that became Washington, D.C.?
a. New York and Pennsylvania
b. Virginia and Maryland
c. North and South Carolina
d. New Hampshire and Vermont
7. What did Jefferson believe people needed in order to govern themselves well?
a. plenty of food
b. taxes
c. education
d. slaves
8. What message did the Monroe Doctrine give to European Countries?
a. they are welcome in South America
b. they are welcome in North America
c. they should not interfere in North or South America
d. they should not interfere in the Eastern Hemisphere
9. Which of these is true of President John Quincy Adams?
a. he didn’t present his ideas forcefully
b. he was cold and hard to get to know
c. he wanted to build a national university
d. all of the above
10. Which important port city was part of the Louisiana Purchase?
a. New York City
b. New Orleans
c. Boston
d. Washington, D.C.
11. Which did not play a role in the Whiskey Rebellion?
a. corn
b. farmers
c. tractors
d. tax
12. What did President John Adams believe about war?
a. The US was too young to get involved in war
b. The US should go to war with France
c. The US was too wealthy to get involved in the war
d. France and England should go to war
History Test Study Guide
I hope you have a great week!
--Mrs. Conforti
Incredible to think that we only have three weeks remaining in your student’s fourth grade year! As the year is coming to a close, students are feeling the itch for summer early. A number of them, way more than normal, did poorly on the last math test on composite figures. We gave each student 6 minutes to look over their corrected first attempt, and gave them the opportunity to try again for a better score. Many students are missing points from not reading carefully or from not completing the entire problem. Please support your child by reminding them to give the same level of effort in these last few weeks that they have trained to give toward their studies throughout the year. I don't want to see them practice bad habits right before they leave for the summer and prepare for fifth grade.
This class of scholars continue to impress me constantly with their behavior and academic and moral virtue. Our group had excellent etiquette as audience members during the Spring Concert, and represented our school as well-behaved scholars on the field trip to A.T Still University. During the field trip, our students were complimented multiple times on their scientific inquisitiveness, knowledge of the cardiovascular system, and diligent note-taking! I have been exceptionally fortunate as a first year teacher to have a group of kids that I can trust so much to be positive leaders.
This Week:
Writing/Grammar: This week, students will dive into poetry. Each night, students will have a poem to write if there isn't time to finish it during class. This week, I will be grading students on effort instead of the quality of work. Poetry isn't easy. Some consider it the highest form of writing. It will be a good challenge for them, and all I ask of them is their best effort. Some may find they are pretty good at it and enjoy it.
History: Students will be taking their final history test of the year next week and their last quizzes this week. Please see the study guide attached to this post below that Mr. Naaktgeboren has provided.
Literature: Students will continue reading The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Next week, students will be watching the 1939 film adaptation, The Wizard of Oz, and writing an essay comparing and contrasting the two mediums. (This is my personal favorite film of all time, and I am having difficulty containing my excitement!)
Math: Students will prepare for the Unit 1-7 cumulative test that they will take on Thursday. After that, they will spend time preparing for the Great Hearts Singapore assessment. This assessment is meant to gauge their understanding of key strands taught by the Singapore Math program. The GH Singapore assessment does not impact the student's math grade.
Poem: Students should continue to study "George Washington" in preparation to recite the poem on Friday, May 17.
Greek and Latin Roots: The students should be studying all 100 roots in preparation for the end of quarter Greek and Latin roots test which will cover all one hundred roots. However, the assessment this week is only over roots 94-96, and students will learn the last three roots for the year!
Science: Students will learn about breathing, lung ailments, and will be making a brochure about living a healthy lifestyle. Students will take their unit test on the respiratory system next week.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, agreement ----- attorney. On Monday, they will take their final 50-word spelling test of the year. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
History Quiz Study Guide
History: Early Presidents Quiz
1. What did Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson disagree about?
a. whether manufacturing or farming was more important
b. if there should be more small towns or large cities
c. whether the central government should be strong or weak
d. all of the above
2. What is impressment?
a. forcing members of one country into the service of another country
b. having a good opinion of someone
c. taking soldiers captive during a war
d. forcing citizens to pay for their country’s war
3. Which position did George Washington NOT hold?
a. president
b. vice president
c. president of the Constitutional Convention
d. commander in chief of the Continental Army
4. Which branches of government were established by the Constitution?
a. executive, legislative, judicial
b. executive, legislative, treasury
c. cabinet, legislative, judicial
d. the legislative, judicial, war department
5. Which of these is part of the judicial system?
a. President’s Cabinet
b. Department of State
c. Supreme Court
d. Department of the Interior
6. Which states donated the land that became Washington, D.C.?
a. New York and Pennsylvania
b. Virginia and Maryland
c. North and South Carolina
d. New Hampshire and Vermont
7. What did Jefferson believe people needed in order to govern themselves well?
a. plenty of food
b. taxes
c. education
d. slaves
8. What message did the Monroe Doctrine give to European Countries?
a. they are welcome in South America
b. they are welcome in North America
c. they should not interfere in North or South America
d. they should not interfere in the Eastern Hemisphere
9. Which of these is true of President John Quincy Adams?
a. he didn’t present his ideas forcefully
b. he was cold and hard to get to know
c. he wanted to build a national university
d. all of the above
10. Which important port city was part of the Louisiana Purchase?
a. New York City
b. New Orleans
c. Boston
d. Washington, D.C.
11. Which did not play a role in the Whiskey Rebellion?
a. corn
b. farmers
c. tractors
d. tax
12. What did President John Adams believe about war?
a. The US was too young to get involved in war
b. The US should go to war with France
c. The US was too wealthy to get involved in the war
d. France and England should go to war
History Test Study Guide
- What positions did George Washington hold?
- Which branches of government were established by the Constitution?
- What is the top of the judicial system?
- How does the government get most of its money to operate?
- What did Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson disagree about?
- What played a role in the Whiskey Rebellion?
- What did President John Adams believe about war?
- Which states donated the land that became Washington, D.C.?
- What did Thomas Jefferson believe people needed in order to govern themselves well?
- Which important port city was part of the Louisiana Purchase?
- What is impressment?
- What message did the Monroe Doctrine give to European countries?
- Which of these is true of President John Quincy Adams?
- What was the Indian Removal Act?
- How was Andrew Jackson's background different from the backgrounds of presidents before him?
- The second president, who kept the U.S. out of a war
- Author of "The Star-Spangled Banner"
- The president who said, "I walk on untrodden ground"
- The president who was a hero at the Battle of New Orleans
- The third president, who was an architect, a lawyer, an inventor, and a writer
- African-American scientist who helped survey Washington, D.C.
- Son of a president who also became a president
- The president who declared war against Great Britain
- George Washington's secretary of the treasury who favored a strong central government
- The president whose doctrine told Europe to stay out of the Western Hemisphere
I hope you have a great week!
--Mrs. Conforti
Monday, April 29, 2019
Week 6 Grade Reports
Good Morning!
My email is acting up, so some grade reports may not have been delivered to you, however on my end it says it is still trying to deliver them to you. If you do not receive a grade report by the end of the day (4/29), send me an email letting me know you were one of the ones who did not get it, and I would be happy to send you another.
Thanks!
Mrs. Conforti
My email is acting up, so some grade reports may not have been delivered to you, however on my end it says it is still trying to deliver them to you. If you do not receive a grade report by the end of the day (4/29), send me an email letting me know you were one of the ones who did not get it, and I would be happy to send you another.
Thanks!
Mrs. Conforti
Sunday, April 28, 2019
Week of April 29 - May 3
Families of 4C,
A.T. Still University Field Trip
Last year, one of our excellent fourth-grade teachers has been accepted to A.T. Still University for med school and had connections to the university because her brother had gone there. She reached out to them, and they put on a wonderful learning experience for the fourth-grade students last year.
This year, with the help of Ms. Allgood, whose husband is one of the teachers at ATSU, helped set up the trip again this year. The trip is scheduled for Thursday, May 2nd.
There are some things that make this trip different.
Please have your child return the permission slip and $7 (cash or check) on Tuesday. If your child is absent on Tuesday, they can return it when they get to school. If your child cannot attend the trip, please do not return the permission slip or pay the fee.
If you have any other questions about the trip, please feel free to let us know. The students seemed very excited about the virtual lab and large models. It is a great way to learn about the human body and really supports what they learned last year (muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems) and this year (circulatory and respiratory systems).
Spring Concert
Our Spring Concert is this week! It will be at Higley Center for the Performing Arts on May 1st. Students’ attire for our performances is NOT school uniform. Gentlemen are expected to wear a plain white dress shirt, black pants, black socks and black closed toed shoes. Solid dark colored vests and ties are optional for gentlemen. Ladies are expected to wear a white top, black skirt, black tights and black closed toed shoes. Please have your 4th graders at Higley Center for the Performing Arts by 6:30pm.
Please visit aretek-2music.blogspot.com or email jweddle@archwayarete.org for questions regarding the concert!
PSO Survey
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfs3gqBF0kc0rdyzpLP6sqTsnoi4iSRHAM_OEQUsdlPM0N5DA/viewform
Tissues
With allergy season in the air, our class has been going through tissues quickly. If you are willing and able, any donations of tissues would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Excessive Heat
Now that the warmer weather is on the way, please remember to send your student to school with a refillable water bottle every day. We encourage students to take water bottles with them to every recess and lunch break.
Please note that all missing/absent work will not be accepted after Thursday, May 16.
Lessons:
Math: Students will be taking review tests at the beginning of the week, as well as their weekly quiz on Wednesday. Toward the end of the week, we will be reviewing and expanding upon students’ understanding of how to calculate area and perimeter.
Literature: Students will continue our final literature book of the year, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 21 words, difficulty ----- respect. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
History: Students will continue to learn about the founding fathers, focusing this week on Hamilton and Jefferson and their differing political ideals, as well as learning about the important contributions John Adams made to the establishment of the American government. Students will also begin their essays on U.S. Presidents this week.
Science: Students will be presenting their heart healthy foods to the class on Monday. Throughout the rest of the week, students will learn about the respiratory systems and the difference between breathing and respiration.
Poetry: This week, students will be learning their final poem for recitation, “George Washington” by Rosemary and Stephen Vincent Benet. Recitations for this poem will be on Friday, May 17.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will continue to learn new Greek and Latin Roots and quiz on previous roots every Wednesday. This week’s quiz will be, over roots 91-93.
-- Mrs. Conforti
A.T. Still University Field Trip
Last year, one of our excellent fourth-grade teachers has been accepted to A.T. Still University for med school and had connections to the university because her brother had gone there. She reached out to them, and they put on a wonderful learning experience for the fourth-grade students last year.
This year, with the help of Ms. Allgood, whose husband is one of the teachers at ATSU, helped set up the trip again this year. The trip is scheduled for Thursday, May 2nd.
There are some things that make this trip different.
- First, because this trip is so brief and contained, we do not have chaperones attend this trip with us.
- Second, because we have already taken our field trip, families have to cover the cost of this trip. Because ATSU graciously allows us to visit for free, we only have to pay for the bus. The cost is $7 per student (families with financial difficulties should inform the teacher).
- Third, we only get one bus because the university is located at Recker and Baseline. If it wasn't for the business of Baseline's traffic, we would likely walk. Thus, the students are taken to and back in shifts.
- Fourth, the students don't need to bring any money or a special lunch. There is a store on campus, but I don't think they have anything the students need to purchase. They will also be back before lunch so they can bring a normal lunch or have hot lunch.
Please have your child return the permission slip and $7 (cash or check) on Tuesday. If your child is absent on Tuesday, they can return it when they get to school. If your child cannot attend the trip, please do not return the permission slip or pay the fee.
If you have any other questions about the trip, please feel free to let us know. The students seemed very excited about the virtual lab and large models. It is a great way to learn about the human body and really supports what they learned last year (muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems) and this year (circulatory and respiratory systems).
Spring Concert
Our Spring Concert is this week! It will be at Higley Center for the Performing Arts on May 1st. Students’ attire for our performances is NOT school uniform. Gentlemen are expected to wear a plain white dress shirt, black pants, black socks and black closed toed shoes. Solid dark colored vests and ties are optional for gentlemen. Ladies are expected to wear a white top, black skirt, black tights and black closed toed shoes. Please have your 4th graders at Higley Center for the Performing Arts by 6:30pm.
Please visit aretek-2music.blogspot.com or email jweddle@archwayarete.org for questions regarding the concert!
PSO Survey
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfs3gqBF0kc0rdyzpLP6sqTsnoi4iSRHAM_OEQUsdlPM0N5DA/viewform
Tissues
With allergy season in the air, our class has been going through tissues quickly. If you are willing and able, any donations of tissues would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Excessive Heat
Now that the warmer weather is on the way, please remember to send your student to school with a refillable water bottle every day. We encourage students to take water bottles with them to every recess and lunch break.
Please note that all missing/absent work will not be accepted after Thursday, May 16.
Lessons:
Math: Students will be taking review tests at the beginning of the week, as well as their weekly quiz on Wednesday. Toward the end of the week, we will be reviewing and expanding upon students’ understanding of how to calculate area and perimeter.
Literature: Students will continue our final literature book of the year, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 21 words, difficulty ----- respect. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
History: Students will continue to learn about the founding fathers, focusing this week on Hamilton and Jefferson and their differing political ideals, as well as learning about the important contributions John Adams made to the establishment of the American government. Students will also begin their essays on U.S. Presidents this week.
Science: Students will be presenting their heart healthy foods to the class on Monday. Throughout the rest of the week, students will learn about the respiratory systems and the difference between breathing and respiration.
Poetry: This week, students will be learning their final poem for recitation, “George Washington” by Rosemary and Stephen Vincent Benet. Recitations for this poem will be on Friday, May 17.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will continue to learn new Greek and Latin Roots and quiz on previous roots every Wednesday. This week’s quiz will be, over roots 91-93.
-- Mrs. Conforti
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
Week of April 23-26
Families of 4C,
It’s hard to believe the final quarter is more than half over. I have been eagerly anticipating our upcoming units of study!
Keep an eye out for regular grade reports being sent home for the final weeks of the quarter.
A.T. Still University Field Trip
Last year, one of our excellent fourth-grade teachers has been accepted to A.T. Still University for med school and had connections to the university because her brother had gone there. She reached out to them, and they put on a wonderful learning experience for the fourth-grade students last year.
This year, with the help of Ms. Allgood, whose husband is one of the teachers at ATSU, helped set up the trip again this year. The trip is scheduled for May 2nd.
There are some things that make this trip different.
Please have your child return the permission slip and $7 (cash or check) on Tuesday. If your child is absent on Tuesday, they can return it when they get to school. If your child cannot attend the trip, please do not return the permission slip or pay the fee.
If you have any other questions about the trip, please feel free to let us know. The students seemed very excited about the virtual lab and large models. It is a great way to learn about the human body and really supports what they learned last year (muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems) and this year (circulatory and respiratory systems).
Spring Concert
Our Spring Concert is quickly approaching! It will be at Higley Center for the Performing Arts on May 1st. Students’ attire for our performances is NOT school uniform. Gentlemen are expected to wear a white dress shirt, black pants, black socks and black closed toed shoes. Solid dark colored vests and ties are optional for gentlemen. Ladies are expected to wear a white top, black skirt and black closed toed shoes. Please have your 4th graders at Higley Center for the Performing Arts by 6:30pm.
THANK YOU to Mrs. Nicole Burns for putting on a concert clothing exchange. She has collected concert attire from students that have outgrown their concert clothes. If you would like to participate in the exchange by either donating concert uniforms or receiving articles of clothing, please contact Nicole at: nikki.burns@hotmail.com
Please visit aretek-2music.blogspot.com or email jweddle@archwayarete.org for questions regarding the concert!
Tissues
With allergy season in the air, our class has been going through tissues quickly. If you are willing and able, any donations of tissues would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Weekly Lessons:
Math: Students will be reviewing geometry concepts previously taught and will be learning new geometry concepts, such as nets of geometric solids. Students can expect to have regular unit exams again in addition to their weekly quizzes.
Literature: Students will continue our final literature book of the year, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 21 words, meant ----- apply. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
History: During the third quarter, students learned how patriots fought against tyranny to gain their independence. Once the colonists defeated Britain, the challenge turned to how they should govern themselves. Students will have their test on chapters 1-10 on Friday. All quizzes and tests are open-note. Signers’ Project presentations will be this Wednesday, April 24.
Science: This week, students will learn about heart-healthy foods and diets, and will be taking their unit exam on the circulatory system on Thursday.
Poetry: Students are practicing their memorization of the Preamble to the "Constitution of the United States." Recitation for this will be Friday, April 26. We have been reciting this as a class every day after the Pledge of Allegiance, so there should hopefully be no issue with students being prepared.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will continue to learn new Greek and Latin Roots and quiz on previous roots every Wednesday. This week’s quiz will be over roots 88-90.
-- Mrs. Conforti
It’s hard to believe the final quarter is more than half over. I have been eagerly anticipating our upcoming units of study!
Keep an eye out for regular grade reports being sent home for the final weeks of the quarter.
A.T. Still University Field Trip
Last year, one of our excellent fourth-grade teachers has been accepted to A.T. Still University for med school and had connections to the university because her brother had gone there. She reached out to them, and they put on a wonderful learning experience for the fourth-grade students last year.
This year, with the help of Ms. Allgood, whose husband is one of the teachers at ATSU, helped set up the trip again this year. The trip is scheduled for May 2nd.
There are some things that make this trip different.
- First, because this trip is so brief and contained, we do not have chaperones attend this trip with us.
- Second, because we have already taken our field trip, families have to cover the cost of this trip. Because ATSU graciously allows us to visit for free, we only have to pay for the bus. The cost is $7 per student (families with financial difficulties should inform the teacher).
- Third, we only get one bus because the university is located at Recker and Baseline. If it wasn't for the business of Baseline's traffic, we would likely walk. Thus, the students are taken to and back in shifts.
- Fourth, the students don't need to bring any money or a special lunch. There is a store on campus, but I don't think they have anything the students need to purchase. They will also be back before lunch so they can bring a normal lunch or have hot lunch.
Please have your child return the permission slip and $7 (cash or check) on Tuesday. If your child is absent on Tuesday, they can return it when they get to school. If your child cannot attend the trip, please do not return the permission slip or pay the fee.
If you have any other questions about the trip, please feel free to let us know. The students seemed very excited about the virtual lab and large models. It is a great way to learn about the human body and really supports what they learned last year (muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems) and this year (circulatory and respiratory systems).
Spring Concert
Our Spring Concert is quickly approaching! It will be at Higley Center for the Performing Arts on May 1st. Students’ attire for our performances is NOT school uniform. Gentlemen are expected to wear a white dress shirt, black pants, black socks and black closed toed shoes. Solid dark colored vests and ties are optional for gentlemen. Ladies are expected to wear a white top, black skirt and black closed toed shoes. Please have your 4th graders at Higley Center for the Performing Arts by 6:30pm.
THANK YOU to Mrs. Nicole Burns for putting on a concert clothing exchange. She has collected concert attire from students that have outgrown their concert clothes. If you would like to participate in the exchange by either donating concert uniforms or receiving articles of clothing, please contact Nicole at: nikki.burns@hotmail.com
Please visit aretek-2music.blogspot.com or email jweddle@archwayarete.org for questions regarding the concert!
Tissues
With allergy season in the air, our class has been going through tissues quickly. If you are willing and able, any donations of tissues would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Weekly Lessons:
Math: Students will be reviewing geometry concepts previously taught and will be learning new geometry concepts, such as nets of geometric solids. Students can expect to have regular unit exams again in addition to their weekly quizzes.
Literature: Students will continue our final literature book of the year, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 21 words, meant ----- apply. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
History: During the third quarter, students learned how patriots fought against tyranny to gain their independence. Once the colonists defeated Britain, the challenge turned to how they should govern themselves. Students will have their test on chapters 1-10 on Friday. All quizzes and tests are open-note. Signers’ Project presentations will be this Wednesday, April 24.
Science: This week, students will learn about heart-healthy foods and diets, and will be taking their unit exam on the circulatory system on Thursday.
Poetry: Students are practicing their memorization of the Preamble to the "Constitution of the United States." Recitation for this will be Friday, April 26. We have been reciting this as a class every day after the Pledge of Allegiance, so there should hopefully be no issue with students being prepared.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will continue to learn new Greek and Latin Roots and quiz on previous roots every Wednesday. This week’s quiz will be over roots 88-90.
-- Mrs. Conforti
Friday, April 12, 2019
Week of April 15-18
Families of 4C,
Students will conclude AzMERIT testing on Monday, April 15, as they take Part 2 of Reading and Math. Students should get a good night’s sleep the night before and eat a balanced breakfast the day of the test.
Since testing has concluded after Monday, regular grade reports will be sent out at the end of this week. If your student is deficient in one or more subjects, you will be receiving an additional progress report next week.
Our Spring Concert is quickly approaching! It will be at Higley Center for the Performing Arts on May 1st. Students’ attire for our performances is NOT school uniform. Gentlemen are expected to wear a white dress shirt, black pants, black socks and black closed toed shoes. Solid dark colored vests and ties are optional for gentlemen. Ladies are expected to wear a white top, black skirt and black closed toed shoes. Please have your 4th graders at Higley Center for the Performing Arts by 6:30pm.
THANK YOU to Mrs. Nicole Burns for putting on a concert clothing exchange. She has collected concert attire from students that have outgrown their concert clothes. If you would like to participate in the exchange by either donating concert uniforms or receiving articles of clothing, please contact Nicole at: nikki.burns@hotmail.com
Please visit aretek-2music.blogspot.com or email jweddle@archwayarete.org for questions regarding the concert!
There will be no school on Friday, April 19 or on Monday, April 22.
With allergy season in the air, our class has been going through tissues quickly. If you are willing and able, any donations of tissues would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
This Week:
Math: Now that AzMERIT testing has concluded, students will be reviewing geometry concepts previously taught and will be learning new geometry concepts, such as nets of geometric solids.
Literature: This week, students will begin our final literature book of the year, and my personal favorite, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 21 words, medicine ----- wrestle. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
History: During the third quarter, students learned how patriots fought against tyranny to gain their independence. Once the colonists defeated Britain, the challenge turned to how they should govern themselves. That will be the focus over the next six weeks. The test and quiz schedule for the remainder of this unit is as follows: a quiz week five, and a test week six. All of these quizzes and tests are open notes. Students may find it helpful to complete the study guides at home for the two tests. Students should continue working on their Signers’ Project, which is due Wednesday, April 24.
Science: In science, students have begun a new unit, and we will continue our study of the human body systems for the remainder of the year. Students have learned about the circulatory system, and will have a quiz this week and a test the following week on these concepts. This week, students will learn about blood types and functions of certain internal organs. They will also learn about types of cardiovascular disease and the impact they have on the body, with specific regard to the circulatory system.
Poetry: Students are practicing their memorization of the Preamble to the "Constitution of the United States." Recitation for this will be Friday, April 26.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will continue to learn new Greek and Latin roots and quiz on previous roots every Wednesday. This week’s quiz will be cumulative, over roots 1-87, in preparation for their cumulative test over 1-100 at the end of the school year.
I hope everyone has a restful weekend!
-- Mrs. Conforti
Students will conclude AzMERIT testing on Monday, April 15, as they take Part 2 of Reading and Math. Students should get a good night’s sleep the night before and eat a balanced breakfast the day of the test.
Since testing has concluded after Monday, regular grade reports will be sent out at the end of this week. If your student is deficient in one or more subjects, you will be receiving an additional progress report next week.
Our Spring Concert is quickly approaching! It will be at Higley Center for the Performing Arts on May 1st. Students’ attire for our performances is NOT school uniform. Gentlemen are expected to wear a white dress shirt, black pants, black socks and black closed toed shoes. Solid dark colored vests and ties are optional for gentlemen. Ladies are expected to wear a white top, black skirt and black closed toed shoes. Please have your 4th graders at Higley Center for the Performing Arts by 6:30pm.
THANK YOU to Mrs. Nicole Burns for putting on a concert clothing exchange. She has collected concert attire from students that have outgrown their concert clothes. If you would like to participate in the exchange by either donating concert uniforms or receiving articles of clothing, please contact Nicole at: nikki.burns@hotmail.com
Please visit aretek-2music.blogspot.com or email jweddle@archwayarete.org for questions regarding the concert!
Thank you to all who attended our Usborne Book Fair this week! It was a joy to see you and we are so thankful for your support. If you are interested in purchasing more Usborne books, please visit the link below. This link will bring you to a unique page connected to our school and will be valid until April 19th. After your purchase, you will receive contact from our Usborne Representative, Mrs. Cleary, and she will refund you the shipping cost.
Please email Ms. Modisett (bmodisett@archwayarete.org) with any questions!
https://j4938.myubam.com/1272858
https://j4938.myubam.com/1272858
Thank you!
With allergy season in the air, our class has been going through tissues quickly. If you are willing and able, any donations of tissues would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
This Week:
Math: Now that AzMERIT testing has concluded, students will be reviewing geometry concepts previously taught and will be learning new geometry concepts, such as nets of geometric solids.
Literature: This week, students will begin our final literature book of the year, and my personal favorite, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 21 words, medicine ----- wrestle. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
History: During the third quarter, students learned how patriots fought against tyranny to gain their independence. Once the colonists defeated Britain, the challenge turned to how they should govern themselves. That will be the focus over the next six weeks. The test and quiz schedule for the remainder of this unit is as follows: a quiz week five, and a test week six. All of these quizzes and tests are open notes. Students may find it helpful to complete the study guides at home for the two tests. Students should continue working on their Signers’ Project, which is due Wednesday, April 24.
Science: In science, students have begun a new unit, and we will continue our study of the human body systems for the remainder of the year. Students have learned about the circulatory system, and will have a quiz this week and a test the following week on these concepts. This week, students will learn about blood types and functions of certain internal organs. They will also learn about types of cardiovascular disease and the impact they have on the body, with specific regard to the circulatory system.
Poetry: Students are practicing their memorization of the Preamble to the "Constitution of the United States." Recitation for this will be Friday, April 26.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will continue to learn new Greek and Latin roots and quiz on previous roots every Wednesday. This week’s quiz will be cumulative, over roots 1-87, in preparation for their cumulative test over 1-100 at the end of the school year.
I hope everyone has a restful weekend!
-- Mrs. Conforti
Monday, April 1, 2019
Week of April 1-5
Families of 4C,
Hello Archway Arete Family! Fine Arts and French Night is Wednesday, April 10th from 5:30 to 7:30. Please bring your friends and family for a night of celebrating our student’s achievements in Art and French! Art will be displayed on the walls by classrooms, French videos and performances will take place in the MPR, and there will be mini art lessons in the art room. Light refreshments will be served on the playground courtyard by our lovely PSO. Excited to see you there!
The Book Fair is coming up! If you like to volunteer, please visit the Sign-Up genius here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4EA5A72DA7F58-book. You may also view the flyer for more information!
Here is the link to Ms. Weddle's music class blog, where she has posted some information regarding the German song students are currently learning. ------> https://aretek-2music.blogspot.com/
You may also visit the blog post from our class blog detailing the AzMERIT testing schedule here: https://conforti4c.blogspot.com/2019/03/azmerit-testing-schedule-and-information.html
Though there is testing on Monday and Thursday, we will be spending our remaining time this week continuing to review and prepare for the other upcoming AzMERIT tests. However, students can still expect to have their weekly roots and math quizzes on the weeks of testing.
Have a great week!
--Mrs. Conforti
Hello Archway Arete Family! Fine Arts and French Night is Wednesday, April 10th from 5:30 to 7:30. Please bring your friends and family for a night of celebrating our student’s achievements in Art and French! Art will be displayed on the walls by classrooms, French videos and performances will take place in the MPR, and there will be mini art lessons in the art room. Light refreshments will be served on the playground courtyard by our lovely PSO. Excited to see you there!
The Book Fair is coming up! If you like to volunteer, please visit the Sign-Up genius here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4EA5A72DA7F58-book. You may also view the flyer for more information!
Here is the link to Ms. Weddle's music class blog, where she has posted some information regarding the German song students are currently learning. ------> https://aretek-2music.blogspot.com/
You may also visit the blog post from our class blog detailing the AzMERIT testing schedule here: https://conforti4c.blogspot.com/2019/03/azmerit-testing-schedule-and-information.html
Though there is testing on Monday and Thursday, we will be spending our remaining time this week continuing to review and prepare for the other upcoming AzMERIT tests. However, students can still expect to have their weekly roots and math quizzes on the weeks of testing.
Have a great week!
--Mrs. Conforti
Sunday, March 31, 2019
AzMERIT Testing Schedule and Information
Families of 4C,
Our students have been working very hard to prepare for the AzMERIT and Science AIMS tests coming up in April. Here is a look at testing dates for each tests. Please note that all students need to present on the days of testing.
Our students have been working very hard to prepare for the AzMERIT and Science AIMS tests coming up in April. Here is a look at testing dates for each tests. Please note that all students need to present on the days of testing.
- Monday, April 1: Science AIMS Test
- Thursday, April 4: AzMERIT Writing Test
- Friday, April 12: AzMERIT Reading and Math Part 1
- Monday, April 15: AzMERIT Reading and Math Part 2
Before each day of testing, students should get a good night's rest and should eat a balanced breakfast the day of.
As the state tests are all taken on computers, please note that all students need their own pair of headphones or earbuds on testing days. Most students are already keeping a set at school, but in case they are not already, they should bring them with them for the AIMS Science test this Monday.
Students should also have a book prepared to read when they are finished with their test. Silent, independent reading will be the only option for students to do once they are finished. Students will get a 30 minute break for recess and snack between testing segments, and most students should be finished with testing around 10:00 on most testing days.
So that students are relaxed in their preparation for these state tests, I will not be sending out weekly Grade Reports until after state testing has concluded.
All of our scholars have put forth incredible academic effort throughout this school year, and I know their hard-earned efforts will pay off. Still, it is important to keep in mind that these tests are only just that-- tests. While it is important for students to try their best, my hope is that they all go into testing with confidence in their own efforts, rather than anxiety or fear of not performing well. I went out of my way on Friday to reiterate to them all that they have trained for their marathon exceptionally well this year, and to come in ready to do good work just as they have done every single day of fourth grade to this point.
If you have any further questions regarding AzMERIT or AIMS testing, do not hesitate to reach out.
--Mrs. Conforti
Monday, March 25, 2019
Outdoor P.E.
Students will be having P.E. outdoors for the next 4-5 weeks. Please plan on applying sunscreen at home, and don't forget to send your student to school with a water bottle! Keep in mind that during this time of year, there is a lot of dust and pollen in the air. Please plan accordingly for any health needs for your students (i.e. inhalers, allergy medication, etc.) For week 2-4 lesson plans, see last week's blog post.
Monday, March 18, 2019
Weeks of March 19 - April 12 (Q4 W1-4)
Families of 4C,
I hope our students enjoyed their well-deserved time off and are eager to come back to school!
Tutoring will begin week 2 on Monday, March 25. If tutoring is recommended for your child, you will receive an email invitation at the end of week 1.
With AzMERIT and AIMS Science around the corner, much of what we are doing over the next four weeks is in preparation for that. Thus, instead of writing the same thing over and over for the next four weeks, I'm going to just give you one long blog post so you know what to expect. Before the break, Mr. Naaktgeboren sent out a post about AzMERIT and how we will be preparing for that. If you’d like to read it, you can take a look here.
Lessons:
Math: In math, over the next four weeks, students will spend time learning about data analysis, graphing, and units of measurement. However, the majority of the time will be spent reviewing things they have learned in prior units such as factors and multiples, fractions and decimals, and the four operations. There will be nightly homework and weekly quizzes in math, but no tests.
Literature: During the literature time over the next four weeks, students will be reading short stories and articles to practice their comprehension skills. Hopefully, this time spent focused on reading fluency and comprehension will help them practice the skills necessary to grow in this area.
Spalding: Students will not be assigned Spalding words over the next four weeks. Instead, this time will be allotted to more ELA practice. Some of this time will be used to review vocabulary and other word features such as rhyme, synonyms, and antonyms. There will be no Spalding homework for the first four weeks.
History: During the third quarter, students learned how patriots fought against tyranny to gain their independence. Once the colonists defeated Britain, the challenge turned to how they should govern themselves. That will be the focus over the next six weeks. The test and quiz schedule for this unit is as follows: a quiz during week one, a quiz during week two, a test during week three, a quiz week five, and a test week six. All of these quizzes and tests are open notes. Students may find it helpful to complete the study guides at home for the two tests.
Writing: Students will have two writing assignments over the next couple of weeks. Both of these will be completed in one day to simulate the expectations for AzMERIT. Week one's essay will be an opinion essay. The prompt is would you rather serve as a scientist in the Amazon or Antartica. Week two's essay will be an expository essay. The prompt is to explain how the Three R's and composting are helping solve the trash problem. In addition to these activities, students will start their second major project. Each student will be assigned a signer of the constitution. They will then write a short biography (five paragraphs) on this individual and create a board for an oral presentation. This project is similar to the Europe project they did earlier this year, but it requires less work. Students will be provided with the information for their research, and only a posterboard is required (students are not expected to dress as the individual or to bring any food or other items in, however they may bring in items if they think it is beneficial). This will be due at the end of week six.
Science: Over the first few weeks of the quarter, students will spend time reviewing for the AIMS Science test. This assessment is on a variety of topics and requires students to apply facts and concepts in critical ways. During the review period, the goal will be to review the content so students can access information what has been taught this year but also to help them be able to use the information in new ways to come up with original ideas about how the world works around them and to solve problems.
Poetry: During the first three weeks, students will memorize part of "The Declaration of Independence." Then, from week four through week six, students will memorize the preamble to the "Constitution of the United States."
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will continue to learn new Greek and Latin roots and quiz on previous roots every Wednesday. They should now know 75 of the 100 they will be taught this year. Here is what the first four weeks will look like:
I look forward to a very strong start to the final quarter of fourth grade!
-- Mrs. Conforti
I hope our students enjoyed their well-deserved time off and are eager to come back to school!
Tutoring will begin week 2 on Monday, March 25. If tutoring is recommended for your child, you will receive an email invitation at the end of week 1.
With AzMERIT and AIMS Science around the corner, much of what we are doing over the next four weeks is in preparation for that. Thus, instead of writing the same thing over and over for the next four weeks, I'm going to just give you one long blog post so you know what to expect. Before the break, Mr. Naaktgeboren sent out a post about AzMERIT and how we will be preparing for that. If you’d like to read it, you can take a look here.
Lessons:
Math: In math, over the next four weeks, students will spend time learning about data analysis, graphing, and units of measurement. However, the majority of the time will be spent reviewing things they have learned in prior units such as factors and multiples, fractions and decimals, and the four operations. There will be nightly homework and weekly quizzes in math, but no tests.
Literature: During the literature time over the next four weeks, students will be reading short stories and articles to practice their comprehension skills. Hopefully, this time spent focused on reading fluency and comprehension will help them practice the skills necessary to grow in this area.
Spalding: Students will not be assigned Spalding words over the next four weeks. Instead, this time will be allotted to more ELA practice. Some of this time will be used to review vocabulary and other word features such as rhyme, synonyms, and antonyms. There will be no Spalding homework for the first four weeks.
History: During the third quarter, students learned how patriots fought against tyranny to gain their independence. Once the colonists defeated Britain, the challenge turned to how they should govern themselves. That will be the focus over the next six weeks. The test and quiz schedule for this unit is as follows: a quiz during week one, a quiz during week two, a test during week three, a quiz week five, and a test week six. All of these quizzes and tests are open notes. Students may find it helpful to complete the study guides at home for the two tests.
Writing: Students will have two writing assignments over the next couple of weeks. Both of these will be completed in one day to simulate the expectations for AzMERIT. Week one's essay will be an opinion essay. The prompt is would you rather serve as a scientist in the Amazon or Antartica. Week two's essay will be an expository essay. The prompt is to explain how the Three R's and composting are helping solve the trash problem. In addition to these activities, students will start their second major project. Each student will be assigned a signer of the constitution. They will then write a short biography (five paragraphs) on this individual and create a board for an oral presentation. This project is similar to the Europe project they did earlier this year, but it requires less work. Students will be provided with the information for their research, and only a posterboard is required (students are not expected to dress as the individual or to bring any food or other items in, however they may bring in items if they think it is beneficial). This will be due at the end of week six.
Science: Over the first few weeks of the quarter, students will spend time reviewing for the AIMS Science test. This assessment is on a variety of topics and requires students to apply facts and concepts in critical ways. During the review period, the goal will be to review the content so students can access information what has been taught this year but also to help them be able to use the information in new ways to come up with original ideas about how the world works around them and to solve problems.
Poetry: During the first three weeks, students will memorize part of "The Declaration of Independence." Then, from week four through week six, students will memorize the preamble to the "Constitution of the United States."
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will continue to learn new Greek and Latin roots and quiz on previous roots every Wednesday. They should now know 75 of the 100 they will be taught this year. Here is what the first four weeks will look like:
- Week 1 - learn 76-79
- Week 2 - learn 79-81, assessed on 76-79
- Week 3 - learn 82-84, assessed on 79-81
- Week 4 - learn 85-87, assessed on 82-84
I look forward to a very strong start to the final quarter of fourth grade!
-- Mrs. Conforti
Sunday, March 3, 2019
Week of March 4-8
Families of 4C,
It was nice seeing so many of our students back to school and feeling better toward the end of the week after the bizarre stretch of illnesses that struck our class over last weekend. I hope students are able to keep showing the virtue of perseverance as they finish up the third quarter strong! We are extremely proud of the consistent model behavior and compassion for one another that they show daily!
With so many kiddos being sick, we have gone through tissues and hand sanitizer quite quickly in the past week. If you are willing and able, donations to our class would be appreciated!
All absent/missing work can be turned in up until Thursday, March 7.
Friday afternoon, we will be finishing up the week with our end-quarter celebration! We will be watching Disney’s Prince Caspian while eating lunch and snacks in the room. After lunch recess, students will come back up to the room to eat lunch so we may begin the film as soon as possible with the hope of finishing before dismissal.
There will be a Spring Break extra practice packet available if you are interested in having your child complete it, with the potential to earn extra credit. The packet will be designed to be spread over the course of multiple days, with the goal of keeping students’ minds warmed up for their return in the fourth quarter, where we will heavily be prepping for AzMERIT and Science AIMS. Aside from the extra credit packet, which is completely optional, Spring Break will be an R&R Week.
This Week:
Writing/Grammar: The final week of the third quarter will be spent reviewing the writing assignments from this quarter. The goal is to help students identify areas of concern and where they can improve their writing. We will be amping up our amount of time spent on writing in preparation of the AzMERIT Writing test until students test in April.
History: Students will be reviewing for their cumulative test on the American Revolution on Thursday, over content covered in chapters 1-20. The test will be open note, and the study guide for this exam will be due on Wednesday.
Literature: In literature, we will be finishing our reading of Carry on, Mr. Bowditch. Students will have one last journal entry for this book, totaling 8 journal entries in all. Students should also ensure they have their ship diagram glued in to their notebook and labelled for the notebook check this week.
Math: On Monday, students will be taking their test on adding and subtracting decimals. On Tuesday, students will learn how to multiply with decimals and they will be tested on this concept on Wednesday. Students will be starting Khan Academy when they finish their test, so if you are expected to volunteer, please note that this will likely be a more mellow day, as most students will be testing. On Thursday, students will learn how to divide with decimals. They will be tested on this concept on Friday.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem this week on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: The review check for this Wednesday will be cumulative over roots 1-75.
Science: This week, students will begin reviewing for the Science AIMS test. We will continue reviewing previously taught concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April. On Wednesday, students will have 40 minutes to take an in-class practice test.
Spalding: On Monday, students will be taking their monthly Morrison/McCall Test for March. This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, exact ----- metal. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I wish you all a wonderful Spring Break, and I look forward to seeing our students back for a strong start to the final quarter of fourth grade on Tuesday, March 19!
--Mrs. Conforti
It was nice seeing so many of our students back to school and feeling better toward the end of the week after the bizarre stretch of illnesses that struck our class over last weekend. I hope students are able to keep showing the virtue of perseverance as they finish up the third quarter strong! We are extremely proud of the consistent model behavior and compassion for one another that they show daily!
With so many kiddos being sick, we have gone through tissues and hand sanitizer quite quickly in the past week. If you are willing and able, donations to our class would be appreciated!
All absent/missing work can be turned in up until Thursday, March 7.
Friday afternoon, we will be finishing up the week with our end-quarter celebration! We will be watching Disney’s Prince Caspian while eating lunch and snacks in the room. After lunch recess, students will come back up to the room to eat lunch so we may begin the film as soon as possible with the hope of finishing before dismissal.
There will be a Spring Break extra practice packet available if you are interested in having your child complete it, with the potential to earn extra credit. The packet will be designed to be spread over the course of multiple days, with the goal of keeping students’ minds warmed up for their return in the fourth quarter, where we will heavily be prepping for AzMERIT and Science AIMS. Aside from the extra credit packet, which is completely optional, Spring Break will be an R&R Week.
This Week:
Writing/Grammar: The final week of the third quarter will be spent reviewing the writing assignments from this quarter. The goal is to help students identify areas of concern and where they can improve their writing. We will be amping up our amount of time spent on writing in preparation of the AzMERIT Writing test until students test in April.
History: Students will be reviewing for their cumulative test on the American Revolution on Thursday, over content covered in chapters 1-20. The test will be open note, and the study guide for this exam will be due on Wednesday.
Literature: In literature, we will be finishing our reading of Carry on, Mr. Bowditch. Students will have one last journal entry for this book, totaling 8 journal entries in all. Students should also ensure they have their ship diagram glued in to their notebook and labelled for the notebook check this week.
Math: On Monday, students will be taking their test on adding and subtracting decimals. On Tuesday, students will learn how to multiply with decimals and they will be tested on this concept on Wednesday. Students will be starting Khan Academy when they finish their test, so if you are expected to volunteer, please note that this will likely be a more mellow day, as most students will be testing. On Thursday, students will learn how to divide with decimals. They will be tested on this concept on Friday.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem this week on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: The review check for this Wednesday will be cumulative over roots 1-75.
Science: This week, students will begin reviewing for the Science AIMS test. We will continue reviewing previously taught concepts in preparation for the AIMS test in April. On Wednesday, students will have 40 minutes to take an in-class practice test.
Spalding: On Monday, students will be taking their monthly Morrison/McCall Test for March. This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, exact ----- metal. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I wish you all a wonderful Spring Break, and I look forward to seeing our students back for a strong start to the final quarter of fourth grade on Tuesday, March 19!
--Mrs. Conforti
Friday, February 22, 2019
Week of February 25 - March 1
Families of 4C,
It’s hard to believe there are only two weeks left in the quarter! Our students are still going strong every day, setting a great example of behavioral expectations!
We have had a reported case of Conjunctivitis (pink eye) in our class. Keep an eye out for the letter that was sent home on 2/22 with more information from Nurse Walters.
As a reminder, all students need to have a pair of headphones or earbuds accessible at school. In an effort to get our kids comfortable using them in preparation for AzMERIT, I’d like them to bring them in as soon as possible. My goal is to have students use them during Khan Academy and Typing Quest so they are used to wearing them for the state tests in Spring, where they will need them for audio-related questions on the test. Thanks!
Grade reports will be sent out after week 8.
This Week:
Writing/Grammar: This week, students will be continuing their writing project about comparing and contrasting fast geologic processes, and slow geologic processes. This writing project will carry over for science this week as well. Throughout the week, students will have a grammar review packet for homework. On Thursday, they will be taking a practice test in class to prepare for their cumulative review test on Friday, March 1.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will be learning about Valley Forge and John Paul Jones as they continue through their study of the American Revolution.
Literature: In literature, we will be continuing our reading of Carry on, Mr. Bowditch. Students will continue to have regular journal entries as part of their literature participation grade.
Math: On Monday, students will be taking their test on rounding decimals. Through the middle of the week, students will be doing a cumulative review over factors, order of operations, fractions, decimals, shapes (area, perimeter, diameter, radius, types of triangles, etc.), and geometric solids. They will take their cumulative review test on Thursday, February 28. On Friday, students will learn how to add and subtract decimals.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem next week on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 73-75. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 70-72.
Science: This week, students will be continuing their writing project about comparing and contrasting fast geologic processes, and slow geologic processes. This writing project will carry over for writing this week as well.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 30 words, approval ----- err. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all have a restful weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
It’s hard to believe there are only two weeks left in the quarter! Our students are still going strong every day, setting a great example of behavioral expectations!
We have had a reported case of Conjunctivitis (pink eye) in our class. Keep an eye out for the letter that was sent home on 2/22 with more information from Nurse Walters.
As a reminder, all students need to have a pair of headphones or earbuds accessible at school. In an effort to get our kids comfortable using them in preparation for AzMERIT, I’d like them to bring them in as soon as possible. My goal is to have students use them during Khan Academy and Typing Quest so they are used to wearing them for the state tests in Spring, where they will need them for audio-related questions on the test. Thanks!
Grade reports will be sent out after week 8.
This Week:
Writing/Grammar: This week, students will be continuing their writing project about comparing and contrasting fast geologic processes, and slow geologic processes. This writing project will carry over for science this week as well. Throughout the week, students will have a grammar review packet for homework. On Thursday, they will be taking a practice test in class to prepare for their cumulative review test on Friday, March 1.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will be learning about Valley Forge and John Paul Jones as they continue through their study of the American Revolution.
Literature: In literature, we will be continuing our reading of Carry on, Mr. Bowditch. Students will continue to have regular journal entries as part of their literature participation grade.
Math: On Monday, students will be taking their test on rounding decimals. Through the middle of the week, students will be doing a cumulative review over factors, order of operations, fractions, decimals, shapes (area, perimeter, diameter, radius, types of triangles, etc.), and geometric solids. They will take their cumulative review test on Thursday, February 28. On Friday, students will learn how to add and subtract decimals.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem next week on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 73-75. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 70-72.
Science: This week, students will be continuing their writing project about comparing and contrasting fast geologic processes, and slow geologic processes. This writing project will carry over for writing this week as well.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 30 words, approval ----- err. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all have a restful weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
Monday, February 18, 2019
Week of February 19-22
Families of 4C,
Both our field trip to the State Capitol and our Great Hearts’ Day Celebrations were very successful! Thank you to all who volunteered your time, or supplied us with goodies!
There is no school on Monday, February 18, in observance of Presidents’ Day.
Our class will be visiting the library on Friday, February 22, from 9:00-9:15.
Friday, February 22, is Spirit Wear Day! Students are permitted to wear a spirit shirt with uniform pants.
Here’s an article about sugar and the brain if you are interested in reading more about its impacts: https://www.learningliftoff.com/the-effects-of-sugar-on-a-childs-academic-performance/.
I know I personally struggle with my own sugar consumption, but I find the mornings I have a healthy snack with more protein or vitamins, my own focus and endurance are much stronger throughout the duration of the day. When I came across this article, I thought some families may find it useful and I wanted to share it out!
This Week:
Writing: This week, students will be doing a writing project about rocks, soil, weathering, and erosion. This writing assignment will carry over for science this week as well.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. On Tuesday, students will take their test over chapters 1-14 and will have their study guides on pages 219 and 220 due (#10 and #11 are from future chapters, and will be extra credit). They will continue through the American Revolution studies throughout the remainder of the week by learning about the battle of Saratoga and early America after the Declaration.
Literature: In literature, we will be continuing our reading of Carry on Mr. Bowditch. As a reminder, ALL students need to have a copy of this book. Currently, half of the students in our class do not have this book. If you are truly unable to supply a copy, your child may check this book out from the school library on Friday.
Math: This week, students will continue practicing decimals. On Wednesday, we will have Khan Academy after the students finish their test on thousandths. Later in the week, we will be studying rounding decimals and students will be tested on this concept on Friday.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 70-72. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 67-69.
Science: This week, students will be doing a writing project about rocks, soil, weathering, and erosion. This writing assignment will carry over for writing this week as well.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, minute ----- anger. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all have had a great long weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
Both our field trip to the State Capitol and our Great Hearts’ Day Celebrations were very successful! Thank you to all who volunteered your time, or supplied us with goodies!
There is no school on Monday, February 18, in observance of Presidents’ Day.
Our class will be visiting the library on Friday, February 22, from 9:00-9:15.
Friday, February 22, is Spirit Wear Day! Students are permitted to wear a spirit shirt with uniform pants.
Here’s an article about sugar and the brain if you are interested in reading more about its impacts: https://www.learningliftoff.com/the-effects-of-sugar-on-a-childs-academic-performance/.
I know I personally struggle with my own sugar consumption, but I find the mornings I have a healthy snack with more protein or vitamins, my own focus and endurance are much stronger throughout the duration of the day. When I came across this article, I thought some families may find it useful and I wanted to share it out!
This Week:
Writing: This week, students will be doing a writing project about rocks, soil, weathering, and erosion. This writing assignment will carry over for science this week as well.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. On Tuesday, students will take their test over chapters 1-14 and will have their study guides on pages 219 and 220 due (#10 and #11 are from future chapters, and will be extra credit). They will continue through the American Revolution studies throughout the remainder of the week by learning about the battle of Saratoga and early America after the Declaration.
Literature: In literature, we will be continuing our reading of Carry on Mr. Bowditch. As a reminder, ALL students need to have a copy of this book. Currently, half of the students in our class do not have this book. If you are truly unable to supply a copy, your child may check this book out from the school library on Friday.
Math: This week, students will continue practicing decimals. On Wednesday, we will have Khan Academy after the students finish their test on thousandths. Later in the week, we will be studying rounding decimals and students will be tested on this concept on Friday.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 70-72. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 67-69.
Science: This week, students will be doing a writing project about rocks, soil, weathering, and erosion. This writing assignment will carry over for writing this week as well.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, minute ----- anger. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all have had a great long weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
Saturday, February 9, 2019
Week of February 11-15
Families of 4C,
The Fourth Grade Field Trip to the Arizona State Capitol will be this Monday, February 11. The field trip will last all day, from 8:30-2:45. Students and parents attending will need to bring their own lunch. If your child requires any emergency medication, please be sure to send it with them on the trip as well.
Great Hearts Day will be Thursday, February 14. Our celebration will focus on the virtue of friendship. Students will be creating pictures that represent what friendship means to them. They will also be writing kind words on a heart-shape for each of their fellow scholars. From 1:10-1:35, we will be teaming up with 1C to do some buddy reading. Students will finish the afternoon with some healthy snacks of fruit and popcorn! See the sign-up genius if you’d like to contribute: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0f49aca628a5fb6-great
Math tutoring is cancelled on Thursday, February 14.
Grade reports will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the remainder of the quarter. You can expect to see the next grade report after this week, week 6.
As a reminder, students should still read for 25 minutes on Fridays, unless it is an announced R and R weekend.
Our class is in need of some extra tissues and hand sanitizer. If you are willing and able to contribute, you may send these items to school with your child. Thanks!
This Week:
Writing: This week, students will be doing a grammar review packet in preparation for the grammar review test they will be taking on Friday.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the Battle of Bunker Hill and the Declaration of Independence.
Literature: In literature, we will be beginning our new story, Carry on, Mr. Bowditch. Please send your child to school with this book this week.
Math: This week, students will continue practicing decimals. On Tuesday, students will be taking their test on the hundredths place, and will continue practicing with thousandths throughout the week. On Wednesday, we will have Khan Academy.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 67-69. The review check for this Wednesday will be cumulative over roots 1-66.
Science: We will continue our study of geology this week by learning about the Rock Cycle, erosion, and weathering.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, accept ----- refer. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all have a great long weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
The Fourth Grade Field Trip to the Arizona State Capitol will be this Monday, February 11. The field trip will last all day, from 8:30-2:45. Students and parents attending will need to bring their own lunch. If your child requires any emergency medication, please be sure to send it with them on the trip as well.
Great Hearts Day will be Thursday, February 14. Our celebration will focus on the virtue of friendship. Students will be creating pictures that represent what friendship means to them. They will also be writing kind words on a heart-shape for each of their fellow scholars. From 1:10-1:35, we will be teaming up with 1C to do some buddy reading. Students will finish the afternoon with some healthy snacks of fruit and popcorn! See the sign-up genius if you’d like to contribute: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0f49aca628a5fb6-great
Math tutoring is cancelled on Thursday, February 14.
Grade reports will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the remainder of the quarter. You can expect to see the next grade report after this week, week 6.
As a reminder, students should still read for 25 minutes on Fridays, unless it is an announced R and R weekend.
Our class is in need of some extra tissues and hand sanitizer. If you are willing and able to contribute, you may send these items to school with your child. Thanks!
This Week:
Writing: This week, students will be doing a grammar review packet in preparation for the grammar review test they will be taking on Friday.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the Battle of Bunker Hill and the Declaration of Independence.
Literature: In literature, we will be beginning our new story, Carry on, Mr. Bowditch. Please send your child to school with this book this week.
Math: This week, students will continue practicing decimals. On Tuesday, students will be taking their test on the hundredths place, and will continue practicing with thousandths throughout the week. On Wednesday, we will have Khan Academy.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 67-69. The review check for this Wednesday will be cumulative over roots 1-66.
Science: We will continue our study of geology this week by learning about the Rock Cycle, erosion, and weathering.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, accept ----- refer. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all have a great long weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
Monday, February 4, 2019
Math Workbook 4B
Good Afternoon Families,
As a heads up, we have begun our new math unit on decimals. This is the first unit in Workbook 4B, the second book in the Singapore Math Bundle you got at the beginning of the school year. Please locate your child's 4B Workbook and send it to school with them as soon as possible if you have not already done so, as this will be the book we work out of for the remainder of the school year.
Thank you!
--Mrs. Conforti
As a heads up, we have begun our new math unit on decimals. This is the first unit in Workbook 4B, the second book in the Singapore Math Bundle you got at the beginning of the school year. Please locate your child's 4B Workbook and send it to school with them as soon as possible if you have not already done so, as this will be the book we work out of for the remainder of the school year.
Thank you!
--Mrs. Conforti
Week of February 4-7
Families of 4C,
Tuesday, February 5, is Class Picture Day!
There will be no Khan Academy this week (2/6) in order to allow time for other lessons, as our geometry unit progressed quickly. Thank you for your understanding.
There is no school on Friday, February 8. Enjoy the three-day weekend!
Grade reports will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the remainder of the quarter. You can expect to see the next grade report after week 6.
The Fourth Grade Field Trip to the Arizona State Capitol will be Monday, February 11, which the the Monday following the three-day weekend. You can expect to see an email with details on Monday.
Great Hearts Day will be next Thursday, February 14. There will be an email sent with details and a sign-up later in the week.
This Week:
Writing: Students will continue their third major writing assignment on Endangered Species of animals. This will be an expository essay and will still be teacher-guided; however, students will have more freedom in outlining, constructing sentences, and choosing the information that goes into their essay. Students will type their final drafts in class on Wednesday and Thursday.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the beginning conflicts in the Revolutionary War, and by reading and studying Patrick Henry’s famous “Give Me Liberty, Or Give Me Death” speech. On Friday, students will be taking their weekly quiz to review this information.
Literature: In literature, students will finish reading Prince Caspian, and we will begin reading Carry On Mr. Bowditch toward the end of the week. Students can expect to have regular journal entries in their literature notebooks, summarizing each chapter as we read. The journal entries are included in the participation grade for literature.
Math: This week, students will be learning about decimals. On Monday, students will learn about tenths and will take their test for this on Wednesday. On Thursday, students will learn about hundredths, and will be tested on this concept early next week.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 64-66. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 61-63.
Science: On Monday, students are taking their mid-unit Geology review test on what we have learned thus far. Throughout the rest of the week, students will continue to learn about mountains and they will learn about the different kinds of rocks.
Spalding: Due to the shortened week and the monthly 50-word test, there will only be ten spalding words for this week’s review. This week, students will be studying their next 10 words, organize ----- invite. On Monday, they will take their monthly 50-word spelling test for the month of February. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all have a great long weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
Tuesday, February 5, is Class Picture Day!
There will be no Khan Academy this week (2/6) in order to allow time for other lessons, as our geometry unit progressed quickly. Thank you for your understanding.
There is no school on Friday, February 8. Enjoy the three-day weekend!
Grade reports will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the remainder of the quarter. You can expect to see the next grade report after week 6.
The Fourth Grade Field Trip to the Arizona State Capitol will be Monday, February 11, which the the Monday following the three-day weekend. You can expect to see an email with details on Monday.
Great Hearts Day will be next Thursday, February 14. There will be an email sent with details and a sign-up later in the week.
This Week:
Writing: Students will continue their third major writing assignment on Endangered Species of animals. This will be an expository essay and will still be teacher-guided; however, students will have more freedom in outlining, constructing sentences, and choosing the information that goes into their essay. Students will type their final drafts in class on Wednesday and Thursday.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the beginning conflicts in the Revolutionary War, and by reading and studying Patrick Henry’s famous “Give Me Liberty, Or Give Me Death” speech. On Friday, students will be taking their weekly quiz to review this information.
Literature: In literature, students will finish reading Prince Caspian, and we will begin reading Carry On Mr. Bowditch toward the end of the week. Students can expect to have regular journal entries in their literature notebooks, summarizing each chapter as we read. The journal entries are included in the participation grade for literature.
Math: This week, students will be learning about decimals. On Monday, students will learn about tenths and will take their test for this on Wednesday. On Thursday, students will learn about hundredths, and will be tested on this concept early next week.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization for the poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Students will recite their stanza of the poem on Thursday, March 7.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 64-66. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 61-63.
Science: On Monday, students are taking their mid-unit Geology review test on what we have learned thus far. Throughout the rest of the week, students will continue to learn about mountains and they will learn about the different kinds of rocks.
Spalding: Due to the shortened week and the monthly 50-word test, there will only be ten spalding words for this week’s review. This week, students will be studying their next 10 words, organize ----- invite. On Monday, they will take their monthly 50-word spelling test for the month of February. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all have a great long weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
Sunday, January 27, 2019
Week of January 28- February 1
Families of 4C,
There will be no Khan Academy this week (1/30) or next week (2/6) in order to allow time for other lessons, as our geometry unit progresses quickly. Thank you for your understanding.
Grade reports will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the remainder of the quarter. You can expect to see the next grade report after week 4.
Athletic Field Day will be this Friday, February 1. Students are to bring their lunches, and will eat in the classroom that day. There will not be any hot lunch provided on February 1. We will need a couple coolers with ice to hold drinks and snacks. If you are interested in lending your cooler with some ice to the cause, please visit the sign-up genius here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0B4FAAAF2FAAFC1-coolers
This Week:
Writing: Students will continue their third major writing assignment on Endangered Species of animals. This will be an expository essay and will still be teacher-guided; however, students will have more freedom in outlining, constructing sentences, and choosing the information that goes into their essay.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the Boston Tea Party and doing a group activity on Parliamentary Acts. On Friday, students will take their Unit Test on chapters 1-10.
Literature: In literature, students will continue reading Prince Caspian, reading chapters ten through twelve. Students can expect to have regular journal entries in their literature notebooks, summarizing each chapter as we read. The journal entries are included in the participation grade for literature.
Math: This week will be a busy week as we finish up our geometry unit. On Monday, students will learn about the radius and diameter of a circle, and will learn about the six geometric solid figures. On Tuesday, students will be tested on this concept. On Wednesday, students will learn area and perimeter of rectangles, and will be tested on this concept on Thursday, concluding our study of geometry. On Friday, we will begin learning about tenths and decimals, and students will take their first test on decimals the following Monday (2/4).
Poetry: Students will learn their newest poem for recitation, “Paul Revere’s Ride” this week.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 61-63. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 58-60.
Science: In science, students will continue their study of geology. This week, students will learn about the formations of different types of mountains and geologic formations on the ocean floor. Throughout the week, students will be taking review quizzes for Chemistry (1/30), Electricity (1/31), and Life Sciences (2/1).
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 29 words, secret ----- volume. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
--Mrs. Conforti
There will be no Khan Academy this week (1/30) or next week (2/6) in order to allow time for other lessons, as our geometry unit progresses quickly. Thank you for your understanding.
Grade reports will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the remainder of the quarter. You can expect to see the next grade report after week 4.
Athletic Field Day will be this Friday, February 1. Students are to bring their lunches, and will eat in the classroom that day. There will not be any hot lunch provided on February 1. We will need a couple coolers with ice to hold drinks and snacks. If you are interested in lending your cooler with some ice to the cause, please visit the sign-up genius here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0B4FAAAF2FAAFC1-coolers
This Week:
Writing: Students will continue their third major writing assignment on Endangered Species of animals. This will be an expository essay and will still be teacher-guided; however, students will have more freedom in outlining, constructing sentences, and choosing the information that goes into their essay.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the Boston Tea Party and doing a group activity on Parliamentary Acts. On Friday, students will take their Unit Test on chapters 1-10.
Literature: In literature, students will continue reading Prince Caspian, reading chapters ten through twelve. Students can expect to have regular journal entries in their literature notebooks, summarizing each chapter as we read. The journal entries are included in the participation grade for literature.
Math: This week will be a busy week as we finish up our geometry unit. On Monday, students will learn about the radius and diameter of a circle, and will learn about the six geometric solid figures. On Tuesday, students will be tested on this concept. On Wednesday, students will learn area and perimeter of rectangles, and will be tested on this concept on Thursday, concluding our study of geometry. On Friday, we will begin learning about tenths and decimals, and students will take their first test on decimals the following Monday (2/4).
Poetry: Students will learn their newest poem for recitation, “Paul Revere’s Ride” this week.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 61-63. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 58-60.
Science: In science, students will continue their study of geology. This week, students will learn about the formations of different types of mountains and geologic formations on the ocean floor. Throughout the week, students will be taking review quizzes for Chemistry (1/30), Electricity (1/31), and Life Sciences (2/1).
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 29 words, secret ----- volume. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
--Mrs. Conforti
Thursday, January 24, 2019
Math Test 4.3A Correction
Families of 4C,
Upon looking through the tests, it came to our attention that the shape in question 4(b) is drawn a bit confusing and it was difficult to pinpoint the exact number of right angles in the figure. For this reason, students will be getting a point back on this test so the question does not count against them.
Thank you for your understanding!
--Mrs. Conforti
Upon looking through the tests, it came to our attention that the shape in question 4(b) is drawn a bit confusing and it was difficult to pinpoint the exact number of right angles in the figure. For this reason, students will be getting a point back on this test so the question does not count against them.
Thank you for your understanding!
--Mrs. Conforti
Friday, January 18, 2019
Week of January 22-25
Families of 4C,
There is no school on Monday, January 21 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Grade reports will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the remainder of the quarter. You can expect to see the next grade report after week 4.
Please note that our class had some low averages on quizzes this week. Do not be alarmed if you are seeing your child bring home quizzes with lower averages than what you might be typically used to. Our first Geology quiz had a class average of 68 percent, and our math quiz for week 2 had a class average of 50%. Most of the questions answered incorrectly on these exams was due to not reading the question fully or carefully. On the math quiz, many students did not complete all portions of every question, particularly the word problem and the prime vs. composite questions. In the third quarter, we are emphasizing the importance of taking time and persevering through difficult or lengthy problems. Students are encouraged to at least attempt every problem, even if it might be challenging or they might get it wrong.
This Week:
Writing: Students will continue their second major writing assignment by finishing the final drafts of their Middle Ages Essay on Tuesday and Wednesday. In the latter part of the week, students will begin their next major writing project. This will be another teacher-led workshop lasting a couple weeks, and the topic will focus on Endangered Species of animals.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the importance of the Stamp Act, Patrick Henry, and the Boston Massacre.
Literature: In literature, students will continue reading Prince Caspian, reading chapters nine through eleven. Students can expect to have regular journal entries in their literature notebooks, summarizing each chapter as we read. The journal entries are included in the participation grade for literature.
Math: Fourth grade will continue our study of geometry this week. Students will learn about quadrilaterals and triangles and will take a test on these concepts on Wednesday and Friday.
Poetry: Recitations for “Concord Hymn” by Ralph Waldo Emerson will be on Friday, January 25. Every student is expected to perform their recitation on that day, and will not be granted additional time if they are not prepared on that day.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 58-60. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 55-57.
Science: In science, students will continue their study of geology. This week, students will learn about the different types of volcanoes, famous volcanoes, and the impact that erupted volcanoes can have on the atmosphere. Later in the week, students will be constructing their own volcanoes and later on Friday, making them erupt.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, nickel ----- saucer. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all enjoy the long weekend! Happy MLK Day!
--Mrs. Conforti
There is no school on Monday, January 21 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Grade reports will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the remainder of the quarter. You can expect to see the next grade report after week 4.
Please note that our class had some low averages on quizzes this week. Do not be alarmed if you are seeing your child bring home quizzes with lower averages than what you might be typically used to. Our first Geology quiz had a class average of 68 percent, and our math quiz for week 2 had a class average of 50%. Most of the questions answered incorrectly on these exams was due to not reading the question fully or carefully. On the math quiz, many students did not complete all portions of every question, particularly the word problem and the prime vs. composite questions. In the third quarter, we are emphasizing the importance of taking time and persevering through difficult or lengthy problems. Students are encouraged to at least attempt every problem, even if it might be challenging or they might get it wrong.
This Week:
Writing: Students will continue their second major writing assignment by finishing the final drafts of their Middle Ages Essay on Tuesday and Wednesday. In the latter part of the week, students will begin their next major writing project. This will be another teacher-led workshop lasting a couple weeks, and the topic will focus on Endangered Species of animals.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. Since all tests and quizzes are open-note, spelling counts! As long as students take effective notes in class, they should have all the information they need for the exam. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the importance of the Stamp Act, Patrick Henry, and the Boston Massacre.
Literature: In literature, students will continue reading Prince Caspian, reading chapters nine through eleven. Students can expect to have regular journal entries in their literature notebooks, summarizing each chapter as we read. The journal entries are included in the participation grade for literature.
Math: Fourth grade will continue our study of geometry this week. Students will learn about quadrilaterals and triangles and will take a test on these concepts on Wednesday and Friday.
Poetry: Recitations for “Concord Hymn” by Ralph Waldo Emerson will be on Friday, January 25. Every student is expected to perform their recitation on that day, and will not be granted additional time if they are not prepared on that day.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 58-60. The review check for this Wednesday will be over roots 55-57.
Science: In science, students will continue their study of geology. This week, students will learn about the different types of volcanoes, famous volcanoes, and the impact that erupted volcanoes can have on the atmosphere. Later in the week, students will be constructing their own volcanoes and later on Friday, making them erupt.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, nickel ----- saucer. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Thursday and take the final test on Friday.
I hope you all enjoy the long weekend! Happy MLK Day!
--Mrs. Conforti
Sunday, January 13, 2019
Week of January 14-18
Families of 4C,
Fourth Grade MAP Testing will take place in the morning on Thursday, January 17.
Our class will be visiting the library on Friday, January 18 from 9:00-9:15 AM.
Clubs will begin in week 2 (Jan. 14-18). You can visit this google doc for more information regarding clubs: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18DwPk4-JICmHZG_1ECNFz_ObqUlNc4rkamFSJ_a30t0/edit?usp=sharing
Grade reports will be sent after week two to allow more time for assignments to balance the grade book.
This Week:
Writing: Students will continue their second major writing assignment. This writing project will still be largely teacher-led, but students will have more freedom to form their own thoughts and sentences. This will be an opinion paper on the topic following topic: Is it right to call the Middle Ages the Dark Ages? Students will type their final drafts in-class at the end of the week.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the Seven Years’ War, the French-Indian War, and the allies of France and Great Britain during this time. Students will be taking their unit test over chapters 1-5 on Wednesday. On Thursday and Friday, students will discuss the beginning quarrels between the Colonies and Great Britain as the Revolution began.
Literature: In literature, students will continue reading Prince Caspian, reading chapters five through seven. Students can expect to have regular journal entries in their literature notebooks, summarizing each chapter as we read. The journal entries are included in the participation grade for literature.
Math: Fourth grade will continue our study of geometry this week. Students will learn about parallel and perpendicular lines and will take a test on these concepts on Friday. On Tuesday, students will take a test over last week’s concepts on measuring angles and they will take their weekly review quiz.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization of “Concord Hymn” by Ralph Waldo Emerson. This is a famous poem about the start of the American Revolution. They will be expected to recite this poem on Friday, January 25.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 55-57. The review check for this Wednesday, January 16, will be over numbers 1-54 to ensure that students are retaining the ones they learned before the winter break.
Science: In science, students will continue their study of geology. This week, students will learn about the three types of plate boundaries, earthquakes, faults, and tsunamis. They will take their geology quiz on Wednesday and should be studying their notes regularly to stay prepared. They are permitted to use part (not all) of their reading time for literature to read notes when new concepts are taught.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, college ----- listen. There will not be any Spalding on Thursday due to MAP testing. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Wednesday and take the final test on Friday.
Our students had a very strong first week back! I wish you all a fun and restful weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
Fourth Grade MAP Testing will take place in the morning on Thursday, January 17.
Our class will be visiting the library on Friday, January 18 from 9:00-9:15 AM.
Clubs will begin in week 2 (Jan. 14-18). You can visit this google doc for more information regarding clubs: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18DwPk4-JICmHZG_1ECNFz_ObqUlNc4rkamFSJ_a30t0/edit?usp=sharing
Grade reports will be sent after week two to allow more time for assignments to balance the grade book.
This Week:
Writing: Students will continue their second major writing assignment. This writing project will still be largely teacher-led, but students will have more freedom to form their own thoughts and sentences. This will be an opinion paper on the topic following topic: Is it right to call the Middle Ages the Dark Ages? Students will type their final drafts in-class at the end of the week.
History: History tests and quizzes will be open-note for the remainder of the school year. This week, students will continue their study of the American Revolution by learning about the Seven Years’ War, the French-Indian War, and the allies of France and Great Britain during this time. Students will be taking their unit test over chapters 1-5 on Wednesday. On Thursday and Friday, students will discuss the beginning quarrels between the Colonies and Great Britain as the Revolution began.
Literature: In literature, students will continue reading Prince Caspian, reading chapters five through seven. Students can expect to have regular journal entries in their literature notebooks, summarizing each chapter as we read. The journal entries are included in the participation grade for literature.
Math: Fourth grade will continue our study of geometry this week. Students will learn about parallel and perpendicular lines and will take a test on these concepts on Friday. On Tuesday, students will take a test over last week’s concepts on measuring angles and they will take their weekly review quiz.
Poetry: Students will continue their memorization of “Concord Hymn” by Ralph Waldo Emerson. This is a famous poem about the start of the American Revolution. They will be expected to recite this poem on Friday, January 25.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn Greek and Latin roots 55-57. The review check for this Wednesday, January 16, will be over numbers 1-54 to ensure that students are retaining the ones they learned before the winter break.
Science: In science, students will continue their study of geology. This week, students will learn about the three types of plate boundaries, earthquakes, faults, and tsunamis. They will take their geology quiz on Wednesday and should be studying their notes regularly to stay prepared. They are permitted to use part (not all) of their reading time for literature to read notes when new concepts are taught.
Spalding: This week, students will be studying their next 20 words, college ----- listen. There will not be any Spalding on Thursday due to MAP testing. We will typically study 30 words every week; however, this is subject to change by a word or two from week to week depending on word groupings. A family member should dictate the words to the student each night for homework. Students will review words on Wednesday and take the final test on Friday.
Our students had a very strong first week back! I wish you all a fun and restful weekend!
--Mrs. Conforti
Monday, January 7, 2019
Week of January 7-11
Families of 4C,
Happy New Year!
I hope you are all well rested after the holiday break, and are as eager for a fresh start to a new year as I am.
There will not be any math tutoring this week. Tutoring will begin on Monday, January 14 on an invite-only basis. Invitations will be sent via email later this week with more details.
Grade reports will be sent after week two to allow more time for assignments to balance in the grade book.
This Week:
Writing: Students will start their second major writing assignment. This writing project will still be largely teacher-led, but students will have more freedom to form their own thoughts and sentences. This will be an opinion paper on the topic following topic: Is it right to call the Middle Ages the Dark Ages? This writing assignment will take place in week 1 and week 2.
History: This week students will start their next unit of study: the American Revolution. However, before we get there, students will review the thirteen colonies, which they studied next year, and about the rising tension between the English, who owned the thirteen colonies, and the French, the greatest enemy of the British from their conflict during the 100 Years’ War. There is a test Friday on the thirteen colonies that is open notes so it shouldn’t be very difficult as long as students take good notes.
Literature: In literature, students will start their reading of Prince Caspian. On Monday, students will review The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Please have them bring Prince Caspian on Tuesday, January 8. Students will read chapters 1-3 this week.
Math: Fourth grade will start a study of geometry this week. There is a test later this week over chapter 1. The first test is on right angles. Everything on this test is a review from last year.
Poetry: Students will start memorizing “Concord Hymn” by Ralph Waldo Emerson. This is a famous poem about the start of the American Revolution. They will be expected to recite this poem during week three.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn the next four Greek and Latin roots this week, but there is no review check this week. However, the review check for next week will be over numbers 1-54 to ensure that students are retaining the ones they learned before the winter break.
Science: In science, students will start their study of geology. This week, they will learn about the four layers of the earth, Alfred Wegener’s Continental Drift Theory, and current theory of Plate Tectonics. There is a meteorology review quiz on Thursday.
Spalding: Students will begin the week with the monthly fifty-word spelling test to check their grade level. They will then learn twenty words and be tested on Friday.
I look forward to a strong start to the second half of the school year!
--Mrs. Conforti
Happy New Year!
I hope you are all well rested after the holiday break, and are as eager for a fresh start to a new year as I am.
There will not be any math tutoring this week. Tutoring will begin on Monday, January 14 on an invite-only basis. Invitations will be sent via email later this week with more details.
Grade reports will be sent after week two to allow more time for assignments to balance in the grade book.
This Week:
Writing: Students will start their second major writing assignment. This writing project will still be largely teacher-led, but students will have more freedom to form their own thoughts and sentences. This will be an opinion paper on the topic following topic: Is it right to call the Middle Ages the Dark Ages? This writing assignment will take place in week 1 and week 2.
History: This week students will start their next unit of study: the American Revolution. However, before we get there, students will review the thirteen colonies, which they studied next year, and about the rising tension between the English, who owned the thirteen colonies, and the French, the greatest enemy of the British from their conflict during the 100 Years’ War. There is a test Friday on the thirteen colonies that is open notes so it shouldn’t be very difficult as long as students take good notes.
Literature: In literature, students will start their reading of Prince Caspian. On Monday, students will review The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Please have them bring Prince Caspian on Tuesday, January 8. Students will read chapters 1-3 this week.
Math: Fourth grade will start a study of geometry this week. There is a test later this week over chapter 1. The first test is on right angles. Everything on this test is a review from last year.
Poetry: Students will start memorizing “Concord Hymn” by Ralph Waldo Emerson. This is a famous poem about the start of the American Revolution. They will be expected to recite this poem during week three.
Greek and Latin Roots: Students will learn the next four Greek and Latin roots this week, but there is no review check this week. However, the review check for next week will be over numbers 1-54 to ensure that students are retaining the ones they learned before the winter break.
Science: In science, students will start their study of geology. This week, they will learn about the four layers of the earth, Alfred Wegener’s Continental Drift Theory, and current theory of Plate Tectonics. There is a meteorology review quiz on Thursday.
Spalding: Students will begin the week with the monthly fifty-word spelling test to check their grade level. They will then learn twenty words and be tested on Friday.
I look forward to a strong start to the second half of the school year!
--Mrs. Conforti
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)