We are now facing October and the end of our adjustment quarter.  5th grade offers so many new activities and opportunities that it takes the first quarter of the school year to really get on our feet.  The students are settling in and I am proudest of the fact that responsibility is being taken for choices that are made.  Students need to practice skills at home if they aren't clear.  Ask questions and listen to discussion during the class time.  Our homework is practice for assessments.  If your child has not been meeting your expectations, ask to see completed assignments each day.  Your child can return completed work in the morning in time for class with confidence. 

We are also required to do Health and Spelling at school.  These subjects are given time during the day to be completed.  Some chose to do work that can be done at home instead to free their evenings. Students are learning that no homework means being pressed for getting Health and Spelling done.  Great time management lesson. I have explained to the students that they need to prioritize their time.

English and Social Studies will focus on getting state reports done this week.  We will work on them during English time and time will be taken during Social Studies for the students to write their reports.  We will save information on our flashdrives (memory sticks, thumbdrives).  Students may work on the reports at home if you are will to guide your child through the process.   Use the rubric that is the cover of the state report packet to help your child set their goal.

I do run a classroom that sets standards for behavior and expects students to be responsible for assignments, respectful to others and display good character.  This may seem to be high expectations but I have seen a great amount of maturity in this group of students.  I believe that you get what you expect.  I am looking forward to listening to the state reports and giving you the opportunity to see their displays over Parent Teacher's conferences!