January 15, 2016
Dear 202 Families,
We are happy to be back at school and settling into a routine. Teachers know that this time of year is the “sweet spot” of the year – the students are solid fourth graders, they know their routines, and the classroom runs itself. All I have to do is steer the ship.
Literacy
I’m sure you have noticed that the students’ taste in books has changed since the beginning of the year. They are now way more interested in realistic fiction and nonfiction about kids their own age. I see fewer readers of “Captain Underpants” or “Wimpy Kid” and more readers of “Rules”, “Stargirl”, “Hatchett”, and “Mr. Terupt”.
Math
The students are reviewing and learning fractions. You will see in the homework that the students are adding and subtracting fractions with common denominators.
Science/Social Studies
Our inquiry unit into energy sources has included an introduction to perspective and opinion. The students are learning about renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, costs and benefits of different energy sources, and how to support their opinions with data.
In the months to come we will begin a unit on Colorado’s history, economy, and government. We plan a field trip to the Colorado History Museum and a Young Ameritowne experience. Stay tuned!
Please, if you ever have any questions or concerns, I would be happy to meet with you. The next parent conferences will be the student-led conferences in April, so please don’t be shy about requesting to meet with me before then if you would like.
Thank you.
Kathleen Gormley
Dear 202 Families,
We are happy to be back at school and settling into a routine. Teachers know that this time of year is the “sweet spot” of the year – the students are solid fourth graders, they know their routines, and the classroom runs itself. All I have to do is steer the ship.
Literacy
I’m sure you have noticed that the students’ taste in books has changed since the beginning of the year. They are now way more interested in realistic fiction and nonfiction about kids their own age. I see fewer readers of “Captain Underpants” or “Wimpy Kid” and more readers of “Rules”, “Stargirl”, “Hatchett”, and “Mr. Terupt”.
Math
The students are reviewing and learning fractions. You will see in the homework that the students are adding and subtracting fractions with common denominators.
Science/Social Studies
Our inquiry unit into energy sources has included an introduction to perspective and opinion. The students are learning about renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, costs and benefits of different energy sources, and how to support their opinions with data.
In the months to come we will begin a unit on Colorado’s history, economy, and government. We plan a field trip to the Colorado History Museum and a Young Ameritowne experience. Stay tuned!
Please, if you ever have any questions or concerns, I would be happy to meet with you. The next parent conferences will be the student-led conferences in April, so please don’t be shy about requesting to meet with me before then if you would like.
Thank you.
Kathleen Gormley