Classroom Notes April 15-19

How was camp? One word: exceptional! The staff was awesome, the educational component was tremendous, the counselors were professional, and our kids were very respectful. We only got bitten by the rain once, and it was on our last day. This week, we begin our science state test. Those two one-hour sessions should suffice. If students need additional time, that will be no problem. The science test is just as much a reading test, if anything. Students must take their time and weigh each option. Finally, students know that the tests are written to throw you a curveball! Some might sound mostly correct, yet may not be. Be sure to read through all choices. I will give students time to take a break- go for a walk or stretch. They really do expend much energy during these times of intense concentration. My mantra is, "Do your best." We visit Reed College on Friday, April 19th and Wednesday, April 24th. We will be Reedies for sure! Friday is time spent in the Cooley Art Gallery, where Gregory (who will visit us on Tuesday for a front-loading session) will guide us through authentic Civil War drawings. No IPhones, cameras, cellphones, or audio devices during this period of history for the journalists. The action was painstakingly drawn out: battles, soldiers, places. On Wednesday, we visit the science aspect of Reed. We will visit laboratories and a nuclear reactor (that's right!). This week, we will study forms of energy, so it perfectly fits in. Most of the week will be reviewing science concepts and math review. We will also start a literary analysis, which will be the last big writing project of the year. After the literary analysis, students will begin their 2012-2013 digital portfolio, which will be a gathering of writing, but will also include other subjects. It will be a reflective piece and a timeline of what they explored this year. Reading testing will begin late April. An additional word on testing: Please make sure everyone is well rested and eating well this week. Fruit, yogurt, cereal/oatmeal, and low sugar juices are always a good start to the day. I know I'll be doing the same! I REALLY NEED CHAPERONES FOR FRIDAY AND WEDNESDAY. PLEASE DO NOT BE POLITE AND MAKE WAY FOR OTHERS. These trips will be really fun, educational, and perhaps the last time your child will be caught with you in public with their peers before Middle School. :)