I wanted to send out the announcement that tomorrow, April 21, we will begin the state issued STAR testing. I would like to add that although state testing is used as a benchmark assessment to evaluate schools, it is not the end all and be all of education. Many aspects of education and particularly our social-emotional philosophy are not reflected in these tests. These tests will focus on language arts, math, and science concepts.
In order to do well on these tests, it is important that every student gets plenty of rest the night before, eats a well balanced breakfast, and arrives to school on time. During the last couple of weeks we have been going over test taking tips and strategies to give the students confidence and insight into these test. Many students have expressed concern about the potential outcome of these tests. These tests are really more geared evaluating the school rather than the individual students. Encourage your child to do well, but try not to stress too much about the tests. Remember no test can tell you what you already know about your child!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Back From Break
I hope that everyone had a fun and relaxing week off. I was looking at the calendar and I realized that we only have about two months left of school! I can't believe that the school year is coming to a close so soon.
Next week is an important time because we are going to start the state STAR testing. Our students will begin testing on April 26Th. Make sure that your child get plenty of rest the night before testing. Also, please be sure to provide your child with a nutritious breakfast and lunch. Remember to bring a water bottle and drink plenty of water. We have been working on test taking strategies during class this week to minimize any test anxiety the students might feel.
We are currently finishing up our "What's the Matter?" projects. I extended the due date per request of the class to next Monday, the 18th. I will not be accepting projects past that date.
We have also begun our new writing assignment. We are each picking an issuse at school and writing a persuasive essay to our school board. Ask your student what are the pros and cons of their issue.
We have started another math project called "Shape-up." Students will be exploring geometry concepts, building, and teaching concepts to the third graders.
In social studies we are going to be reading "The cartoon History of the United States." After reading, we are going to be forming groups and acting it out.
I am really excited about how far we have come in our ability to create quality work. Thank you for all of your support.
Next week is an important time because we are going to start the state STAR testing. Our students will begin testing on April 26Th. Make sure that your child get plenty of rest the night before testing. Also, please be sure to provide your child with a nutritious breakfast and lunch. Remember to bring a water bottle and drink plenty of water. We have been working on test taking strategies during class this week to minimize any test anxiety the students might feel.
We are currently finishing up our "What's the Matter?" projects. I extended the due date per request of the class to next Monday, the 18th. I will not be accepting projects past that date.
We have also begun our new writing assignment. We are each picking an issuse at school and writing a persuasive essay to our school board. Ask your student what are the pros and cons of their issue.
We have started another math project called "Shape-up." Students will be exploring geometry concepts, building, and teaching concepts to the third graders.
In social studies we are going to be reading "The cartoon History of the United States." After reading, we are going to be forming groups and acting it out.
I am really excited about how far we have come in our ability to create quality work. Thank you for all of your support.
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