Week of November 19 - 23, 2012

Wednesday HW
The afternoon was affected by the Strings symposium absences much as yesterday was with Band.  Students completed an Art assignment that was already in progress and the band students were able to catch up on Social Studies work we did on Tuesday.  Drama students used the extra time to forge ahead in their narratives.  Since they have more time to write and edit they may likely be typing their finished copies at the end.
1.  Final Patterning unit test tomorrow.
2.  Spelling Dictation #7 tomorrow.
3.  Book Report Reading.

Here is a Khan Academy video on Quadrilaterals.  Much of it is a review of grade 4 concepts from the Math Makes Sense text, but the information hasn't been retained well by all students so a review would be useful.  I am reinforcing this in 20 minute one-to-one practices that include compass and protractor support for polygon construction.  I've conferenced with twelve students so far.



Tuesday HW
1.  We had an unusual day due to the Girls 411 presentation (AM) and the Band symposium (PM).  Students were out of class for large portions of the day and no new work was started outside of the quiz during period 3, which was the only period in which my entire class was present.  We used the periods around that one to catch up on Social Studies work and to continue work on a narrative story draft.  There was no homework on Tuesday night.

Monday HW
1.  Cycle # 7 spelling work:  four lists and 15 sentences due tomorrow.  I checked each list today and most students were starting the third list in class when we wrapped up.  If you are absent, take a pretest with a friend at the next recess when I don't have duty and make your word up list using the #7 list on my webpage.  You should be ready to write on Thursday or Friday this week.
2.  Journal on The Giver.  If you are absent you can get the topic from a classmate at the next indoor recess when you return.
3.  Geometry Quiz tomorrow.  I handed out a study sheet to the students who were present today.  It is a model for students to follow when they create their own lists for future quizzes.
4.  Patterning final unit test on Thursday November 22.
If you are absent on test or quiz days, you should be prepared to write on the day you return. 

Music on a Monday:  I like the DIY aspect of this video.