MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

I want to wish my TEAM33 friends a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS. I hope all your Christmas wishes came true.  Miss you like crazy and looking forward to seeing you in the new year!

Love,

Mrs. McCain

Wednesday, December 16

MATH: Today was a CRAZY good day!  It was our last day for block schedule before break.  In Math Block we took our Unit 5 test.  The students seem to be doing very well (haven't finished grading yet) but if anyone needs it, there will be time for corrections tomorrow.  Final grades will be in Friday!  Please take a few moments to do a grade check over the weekend.  If you see anything that doesn't look right, please email me to let me know.  There should not be any surprises.

HOMEROOM:  The next two days are VERY EXCITING days!  Tomorrow morning is the December StaRRR student activity.  We will be watching our choice movie starting at 8:00.  In the afternoon we will have a classroom Winter party. Then (as if that wasn't enough) tomorrow is BUBBA DAY!!

Friday is just as exciting.  It is pajama day. Boomer will be here in the Morning. We have our UNWANTED GIFT EXCHANGE and an all school read-in.

So much exciting stuff to fit into just two short days!!

Thursday, December 10

WOW was definitely the word of the day! Students took the NWEA and it was impressive!
Check out our Facebook and Twitter Pages to see our growth celebrations! You will be impressed!

NO HOMEWORK TONIGHT!  The students have earned the break!

Wednesday, December 9

The count down is on and the busiest days of the year are here! Don't miss out on any of the exciting activities! Stay updated with the following information.

MATH: We are excited to take NWEA tomorrow.  We all agree we have learned a lot already this year and are excited to show our growth!  Watch our Facebook and Twitter Pages to see our growth celebrations!

HOMEROOM: TEAM 33 Winter Celebrations Important Updates and Information

TEAM33 Winter Party:  TEAM33 will be celebrating the season on Thursday, December 17.  A huge Thank you goes to Mrs. Petro, Brody’s mom for organizing the party, and all the parents who are volunteering their time and talents along with supplies to this festive occasion.  The party will begin around 1:30. All parents and family members are welcome.

Unwanted Christmas Gift Exchange:  This exchange is a cherished TEAM33 tradition. You may have heard stories from past classes.  For any of you that are new to the program, here is how it goes….  Students find something at home that they DO NOT WANT anymore (one student’s trash is another student’s treasure). They ask their parents for permission to give it away. Then they wrap it and bring it to school. Students can start bringing them in any time now.   We then play dirty Santa with the gifts.  The students love it!  The funnier the gifts the better, remember it is an UNWANTED GIFT exchange so no one is disappointed if they get something they don’t want - that is the point.  Although, I am always surprised how each year at least one child tells me how they got exactly what they wanted from the Unwanted Christmas Gift Exchange. We will have our exchange Friday, December 18 during class time.

Pajama Day:  Friday, December is Needham’s Official All School Pajama Day.  Students should come in their most comfortable (but appropriate) sleeping attire.  They are also welcome to bring pillows and small blankets  to use during the all school read in.

Teacher/Classroom Gifts:  If you are planning on purchasing a gift for the teacher/classroom this year please...keep it small.  A great suggestion would be to give games.  Our indoor recess selection is slim, and we have many more indoor recess days ahead of us.  Board games, card games, etc.  New or used.  They would all be greatly appreciated by the students and teacher alike.

Good Cheer Basket:  The Christmas season is a great time to teach children the joy of giving.  The Good Cheer Basket is one way of giving back to our community during this sometimes rough season for many of our friends and neighbors.  Any canned goods or dried boxed foods are greatly appreciated.  Can’t wait to see our basket filled!

Christmas Break:  Christmas Break begins at the end of the day on Friday, December 18.  Please plan for a safe and happy holiday!  We will resume school on  Tuesday, January 5th.

Friday, December 4th

OOPS!  I really messed up on the dates on yesterday's update.  Our Winter Celebration is NOT on December 20th!!  That would be a Sunday!!!  Instead I think we should have it on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17th.  It will be a lot more fun on that day :)

Homeroom students have homework this weekend. It is to CLEAN THEIR ROOM!  They are doing it to prepare for our traditional UNWANTED GIFT EXCHANGE!  It is a hoot!  They should be able to tell you all about it, but I will also be sending additional information home next week.

Have a GREAT weekend.  I hope to see many of you at the Downtown Christmas Lighting.

Thursday, December 3

Here it is!  The long awaited picture of the TEAM33 Christmas tree.  It is TREEmendous!  I can honestly say it is the best one yet! Speaking of Christmas, students brought home Santa shop envelopes yesterday.  Santa shop is an economical and easy way of letting the kids participate in the giving of Christmas.  Our class will be able to visit the shop on Tuesday the 8th.  Our Winter Celebration will also be on Thursday, December 20. If you are able to come we would love to have you!  More information on the celebration will be coming home soon.  

Tuesday, December 1

What a great day today was!  We have our homemade Christmas tree hung (photo's coming after it is decorated). We are well on our way with Unit 5 Learning objectives including multi-digit multiplication like 84*72=.  We even had a great time taking a photo opportunity during recess.  The only sad part of our day was that we were missing a couple of our friends.  We hope they are healthy and back with us tomorrow.

Please take a few minutes to read through the Needham December Newsletter.  December is a busy month.  I don't want anyone to miss out on the fun.

Tuesday, November 24

I am thankful. I am thankful for my students because they are our bright future! I am thankful for TEAM33 and the smiles they bring me. I am thankful for Bulldog Academy and all my cohorts that help me keep my head above water. I am thankful for Needham for giving me a home away from home. I am thankful for my friends that feel more like family.  I am thankful for my family and the way they support me in everything I do.  I am thankful to God for all the blessings He has given me. I am thankful for all these things! Take time to share with someone what you are thankful for!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving! Please take time to check out our Twitter and Facebook for a special Thanksgiving message! 

Monday, November 23

Big thanks goes to Dylan and his family for sharing their dog, Precious, with us today.  She really was precious!  

Another big thanks goes to the classroom parents who have done an amazing job of providing our "Thankful Snack" for tomorrow's activities.  In the afternoon we will be enjoying our snack while making "Thank You" cards for people who have made a difference in our community.  We will also be decorating for the winter and sharing some of our favorite holiday traditions with our friends.  I can't wait!

MATH: Thanksgiving Dinner is served!...Well, almost.  We are still working on it.  The students are working hard on their Thanksgiving Dinner Math Project.  The are making a grocery list, checking it twice, setting up the table and even sharing their favorite recipes! How nice!  

While students are working hard on Thanksgiving Dinner, I am working with individuals to make any needed corrections on their Unit 4 Math test.  Look for results in the Feedback and Data Binder next Monday. 

Friday, November 20

MATH: What a great week as we brought our study of decimals to a close with the Unit 4 Assessment.  Next week we will use our two days of Math to do a Thanksgiving Dinner Math Project.  If you would like to get a preview of the fun activity check out this Project Link; but don't get started yet.  We will collaborate in class to make this Thanksgiving project the most festive yet!

HOMEROOM: Next Tuesday, we are going to be writing letters of thanks to community members such as service men/women such, nursing home residents, and others that may have touched our lives; while enjoying our thankful snack. Please let me know if you have a loved one in the community that could use some heartfelt appreciation. I will need name(s) and address(es) by Monday, 11/23/15. We want to do this as a service project this year.

Note: Thank you to those families who have already sent in bugles, pretzels, and waters.  We are still in need of candy corn, peanuts, raisins, m&ms, and skittles.  All donations are greatly appreciated!

Thursday, November 19

We are gonna OWN IT!! Tomorrow is our unit four test over decimals. We have come along way in this unit. I'm excited  for the students to get the opportunity to show what they know. Tonight's homework is a test review sheet. Numbers one through 11 are crucial and the rest is a great review of other units.  If you need another copy of the test review it is on the homework page. Happy studying everyone.

Tuesday, November 17

MATH: Why do our smart phones have a built in calculator, but not a ruler? Your child should know the answer - personal references.  We don't need a ruler on our smart phone because we know that from the tip of our thumb to the first knuckle is about an inch.  The width of our pinkie nail is about a centimeter and the width of our palm is about a decimeter.  The distance between our nose to the tip of our fingers on an outstretched hand is about yard, and from our opposite shoulder to the tip of our fingers on an outstretched hand is about a meter. Help your child estimate measurement with these personal references as they complete their homework tonight. 

HOMEROOM: Parents, I'm looking for donations for the following snack items. We'll be using them to make a thankful snack on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. Let me know if you are able to donate. You can just send it in with your child, but keep the activity a secret :)

bugles               pretzels               candy corn               peanuts

raisins               m&ms                 skittles                    waters

Thursday, November 12

Guess what day it is!  

GUESS WHAT DAY IT IS!!! 

 It's BUBBA DAY!!  

TEAM33 LOVES BUBBA!

Lauren's grandpa is lovingly referred to as Bubba.  He comes in every week to help us with our education.  He always brings a treat and a smile.  The kids call the time they spend with him, "Bubba Time."  For the past two weeks, Bubba has worked with the students on recognizing and modeling decimals.  If you want to engage your child in a conversation about their school day, ask them to tell you about their Bubba Time today.

Just a quick note: I will not be at school tomorrow.  I am taking my son on a college visit to Purdue.  We are all very excited about the prospect of him attending Purdue for college. (Side note for all you IU lovers - my daughter is just a few years behind him and she is determined to go to IU med school.  We will be just as excited at that opportunity also.) I tell you this not just to brag on my children, which I love to do,  but to also make you aware that if you are trying to contact the classroom, please contact the office for help.

Have a great weekend! I will see everyone on Monday!

 

Wednesday, November 11

HOMEROOM: Happy Veteran's Day!  TEAM33 is very thankful for all who have served to protect our country!  You can see more of our "photo booth pics" in the Picture Gallery for Week 14.

MATH: Today in math we continued our REAL WORLD study of decimals.  We learned about bank ledgers and used calculators to balance our account.  Probably the most important thing we learned is that calculators help make getting answers easier.  They can help make getting the RIGHT answer easier, or they can help make getting the WRONG answer easier.  So it is important to always calculate twice!

Tuesday, November 10

(Block 1)         Red - Model; Orange - Guided;          (Block 2)
Green - Collaborative; Blue - Independent

MATH: I think we are starting to get somewhere with these decimals.  When we reviewed our learning objectives today I could see the confidence growing in students' eyes.  As you can see in the picture, we are not independent in our learning yet, but we are moving that way. Please take a moment each day to point out decimals in our world to your children.  It can be a hard concept, but it helps to know that it is a real part of our world that they need to make sense of.

HOMEROOM:  Big thanks to Lauren today for sharing her dogs Holly and Allie.  This is actually Allie's second visit and I think she loves us!  We have definitely loved all the pet visits the students have been earning by saving those purple tickets!

I am just noticing that a flyer did not get passed out about an opportunity tonight.  Tonight is the 4-H Project Fair at Scott hall from 6:00 - 7:30.  The project fair is a great way to learn more about 4-H and the opportunities it gives to our students.  As a former 4-H  leader, and a parent of two 4-H members, I highly recommend 4-H to all students.  It is the only program I know of where there is truly something for everyone!  If you can't make it to the project fair tonight, you can still learn more about 4-H through the contact information on the flyer, so it will be coming home tomorrow.  Sorry again about the delay!

TOMORROW: Quick reminder to everyone that tomorrow is picture retakes day.  I am unaware of anyone taking retakes from the class - so if you are intending for your child to have their picture retaken, please let me know. Tomorrow is also Veterans day.  Needham wants to show our appreciation for what our veterans have sacrificed for us by honoring them with a Red White and Blue Day tomorrow.  Come dressed to honor!

Friday, November 6

WE HAD SO MUCH FUN TODAY!!!

Today we collaborated in groups to sort our Halloween candy wrappers, create graphs, find numerical landmarks, and even analyze the data! Then our groups designed posters as a visual aid for when they present their findings on Monday.  It is like we are living in the REAL WORLD!

I can't wait to post pictures of the groups presenting their posters on Monday.  Be sure to stayed tuned on Facebook and Twitter. You will surly be amazed at what these students have done! 

Tuesday, November 3

Our ecosystem diorama's look amazing!!  This picture does not do them justice!  If you have a free moment to stop by the school feel free to check them out.  You will be very impressed.

Today we began working on our new learning objective, "Name and model decimals."  We all agree that it is hard work, but that is ok, because we do hard work!

To nights homework is a throw back to Unit 2.  We are working on subtraction with regrouping.  It is a skill we have really been working on.  We are also working on the importance of showing our work - no "magic answers" allowed.  Please look over your child's paper tonight and check for not just the right answer, but also the right work.   Thanks for all you do!

Monday, November 2

It was great to have everyone back at school, safe and sound and (for many) juiced up on sugar from the the exciting holiday weekend. I loved hearing all the exciting stories that come along with trick-or-treating!  If you didn't get my notice over the weekend, I would like to remind you to save those holiday candy wrappers.  We will be doing a fun project with them on Friday.  Speaking of fun projects...our ecosystem projects were a blast and turned out really well!!  A few students are deciding to put finishing touches on their diorama tonight, but all diorama's are do tomorrow - no exceptions.

Tomorrow we will be back in Math.  Unit 4 focuses on decimals.  Students are bringing home their Unit 3 data and the Unit 4 Family letter in their Feedback and Data Binders.  Be sure review this important information with your child and fill out the reflection page for tonight's homework.

Important: Please save your candy wrappers.

I just realized I forgot to send home an important notice. I need all students to save any candy wrappers they might collect this week.  We will be recycling the wrappers for a classroom activity this Friday.  This is not a request to eat all your candy. Just keep any wrappers from whatever you and your family eat between now and Thursday.  Please bring all wrappers in Friday morning.

I would also like to take a moment to wish everyone a safe and happy Halloween!!!

Thursday, October 29

Alright, I know it is not polite to brag, but that is all I do anymore.  These students are AMAZING!!  We have so much fun ALL DAY LONG!  We can do this because the students are always so respectful of me, each other, and their educational time.

This week has been a little bit of havoc.  I was sick on Tuesday, had a professional development meeting today, and we have had several changes in the schedule with assemblies and extra activities.  This much change would send most classes into a whirlwind - not this class.  They haven't missed a beat!

We have even been working on a big assignment during block time.  To finish up our Science Unit we are working on a very involved Ecosystem challenge.  The students are all taking it so seriously and seem to be enjoying every minute of the work. INCREDIBLE!  I can't wait to see their finished projects!!

As I said, I know it is not polite to brag, but THANK YOU for sending such wonderful students my way! I truly do have the BEST OF THE BEST!

Just a few friendly reminders:

• Tonight is the Needham Halloween Fundraiser at McDonald's by 65.  It will go from 4-7pm.   Wear your costume if you wish, or just show up to say hello to your friends.  Either way it will be a treat for everyone. 
• Tomorrow we will "PUT A CAP ON DRUGS."  Everyone should wear their favorite hat or cap. 
• We are all trying to "MAKE A CHANGE." Please send in your change to help United Way make a difference in our community.  Every little bit helps!
• BOXTOPS for EDUCATION Competition is in full swing.  Please send in your BoxTops to help our class win a pizza party!

Monday, October 26

This week is Red Ribbon Week. Today's theme was, "Being Drug Free is no sweat!" Here are the themes for the rest of the week. 

Tuesday - Team up against drugs (Favorite Sports Team)

Wednesday - PAWSitively Drug Free (Needham Spirit Wear)
Thursday - Sock it to drugs (Wear Crazy Socks)
Friday - Put a cap on drugs (Wear a hat)

MATH: Today we took some time to finish our Math Assessments. The rest of the week we will be reviewing missed questions and brushing up on a few of the skills from unit 3.  Our Math assessment scores will come home next Monday in the Feedback and Data Binders. They will be posted in the grade book by the end of the week after everyone has had a chance for collaboration and guidance. We are also starting our next unit in Science this week - Ecosystems.  We will be learning how ecosystems are the interactions of living and nonliving things. 

Wednesday, October 21

Another wonderful day in TEAM33!!

MATH: Today we learned about Open Number Sentences, or Algebra.  The students were very excited to be working on the same kind of math that many of their older siblings in Middle School and High School are working on.  There were even a few cheers when they were informed that they get to do Algebra for homework! What a great GROUP!  Tomorrow we will be reviewing for our Unit 3 test and Friday will be the test.  I can't wait to see how theses amazing mathematicians do!!

HOMEROOM: Many students are bringing home permission slips for this Friday's Hayride.  If they have the permission slip they worked hard to earn it. Please help them receive their reward by signing and sending back the permission slip tomorrow.  If they do not have a permission slip - don't worry, I guarantee all the students in TEAM33 have been well behaved enough to go, they just chose a different reward.

Tomorrow is also our buying day at the Book Fair.  Students may bring money in during the day to purchase books while at school.  Remember, you may also purchase books with them if you come to the COMMUNITY LEADERS ARE READERS night from 5-8pm at Needham.  I regret that I will not be able to attend, but the evening is always so much fun, I hope you and your family are able to make it.

Monday, October 19

It was GREAT to see all my friends back at school today! The break was great but I was ready to be back.  It sounds like lots of exciting adventures happened over break.  The good news is the adventure continues.  We have LOTS of cool things happening at Needham this week.

Homeroom: I know several students enjoyed their morning run today in the running club.  Today also began Book Fair.  Team 33 will get to browse books tomorrow.  We also have a scheduled time to purchase on Thursday.  If you are sending money in on Thursday for Book Fair, please send it in a sealed envelope with your child's name on it along with the title "Book Fair" - this is so we don't get it confused with lunch money.  Students will be responsible for the money and what it is spent on, so please make expectations clear before sending money.  If you would prefer to make purchases at the Book Fair with your child, Thursday is a great day for you.  Thursday from is our annual Community Leaders are Readers event from 5pm-8. Many leaders from our community will be here to read their favorite stories to us and the Book Fair will be open for purchases. You won't want to miss the fun!

Math Block: Today we reviewed our learning objectives and added a new one: Qualifying and Comparing number sentences. Students did a great job recognizing that they can qualify a number sentence as True or False, and that they can compare number sentences as Greater Than, Less Than, or Equal To.  If you would like to engage them in a conversation about their day, ask them to show you a few examples of  number sentences that can be qualified as True or False.  Encourage them to use comparative signs (>, <, =) in the number sentences.

Friday, October 9

WISHING EVERYONE A HAPPY AND SAFE FALL BREAK!!

Over Fall Break students are encouraged to find 30 minutes of Reading time and 10 - 15 minutes of Math time everyday.  Remember that the Fall Break Math Packet is worth 50 tickets if it is completed with effort and returned  after Fall break.

Calling All Parents: We are in need of volunteers for the Book Fair coming up.  If you are able and willing to volunteer any time for this important resource, please contact Mrs. Perry at  perryje@franklinschools.org

Tuesday, October 6

Yes...We ARE a little crazy in TEAM33 :)

HOMEROOM: Alright...Today's message is about some important stuff!!  OUR FALL PARTY!  Our Fall Party will be this Friday from 1:30-2:00.  A big THANK YOU goes to Mrs. Petro for organizing our party and all the other parents who are volunteering or donating supplies and or time to help us celebrate.  We appreciate you!


MATH: Today we quickly finished up our notes and then took off on a field trip to Egypt.  Yep that is right.  We went to Cairo, Egypt today and while we were there we learned about their population, temperatures, time and even currency.  We learned that a monetary pound is worth about $1.52 in US dollars.  If you would like to travel to Cairo, just take a trip with this YouTube Video, but be careful not to let the sand get in your eyes.

Tour of Cairo Egypt

Monday, October 5

MATH: Today we began division! If you would like to have a conversation about our day ask us to identify each part of a division problem.

Dividend: The biggest number.  This is the number we are going to divide or break apart.

Divisor: The number of groups or times we are going to divide the dividend. 

Quotient: The answer to a division problem. 

HOMEROOM: I am looking very forward to our parent teacher conferences this week.  I have a lot of great things to tell you.  If you need a reminder of your conference time, please send me an email and I will let you know.  

Thursday, October 1

WELCOME TO OCTOBER!  What a great month to be a Neeedham Bulldog.  Tomorrow we get to show our Needham Pride with a practice parade through the school.  4th grade students will lead the parade through the halls and around the building while singing our Needham Songs and passing out reminders for Saturday's parade.  I hope to see all of you who are able on Saturday.  We are meeting at the Middle School at 12:30 and the parade starts at 1:00.  Show your Bulldog Pride by wearing LOTS OF PURPLE! - Purple Clothes, Purple Ribbons, Purple Face Paint, Purple Finger Nail Polish! EVERYTHING PURPLE!  At Saturday's parade we are planning on throwing candy, so any candy donations are greatly appreciated! I have heard that our very own Needham Bulldog mascot is planning on making a special appearance at BOTH PARADES!!

I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!

Wednesday, September 30

MATH: We had a change in homework plans for tonight.  Tonight students should make sure their Math Journal notes are complete and practice the Multiplication Fact Triangles.

HOMEROOM:  This week Lauren spent 50 tickets to bring her dog Holly in for a visit; and Brody spent tickets to bring his cats Max and Moe in for a visit! The students had a great time getting to know the pets and the pets seemed to think our TEAM was pretty cool too.  A big thank you to Brody and Lauren for sharing and to all the students for earning those purple tickets by being RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE, and READY to LEARN.

TEAM 33 with Lauren's lovable dog, Holly.

Brody with his adorable kittens, Max and Moe

Tuesday, September 29

Ok...Today looks like an Autumn day!  First of many to come, so please help your child be prepared.  If it is not precipitating...we go outside. It is always a good idea to bring a jacket and have a pair of closed toe shoes ready for recess.

Autumn brings a lot of cool activities here at Needham.  The first one is PICTURE DAY tomorrow. Be sure to wear your smile to school.  We will be taking pictures early, so - if your kids are anything like mine - feel free to send a change of clothes.

To keep up on other events coming your way this Autumn, be sure to check out the Needham October Newsletter and our Classroom Calendar.

Monday, September 28

HOMEROOM: What a great start to the week! To begin with Emily and Brooke brought in some amazing dioramas. It was not an assignment. We were learning about the word diorama in the book The Year of Billy Miller, so they were kind enough to make us some examples.  And what GREAT examples they are!

MATH: Today we also added our Unit 2 Math assessment data to our Feedback and data binder.  While you are reviewing the data, be sure to discuss the colors. Blue indicates what your child was able to do independently, green is what they were able to do when I collaborated with them by showing them what needed to be fixed.  Orange is what they needed teacher guidance to achieve.  If you need a more detailed description of the data, please ASK YOUR CHILD.  They should be able to tell you all about it.  If you still have questions - no worries - we will be going over data binders during the parent teacher conference next week and I will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Don't forget to check the HOMEWORK page.  It has been updated with this week's work.

Thursday, September 24

MATH/SCIENCE: Today we learned the importance of conserving our natural resources.  Thanks to discovery education, we had a lot of fun doing it! If you would like to engage your child in a conversation about their school day, ask them to tell you 3 ways to CONSERVE our natural resources.  They should be able to tell you REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE. Then ask them what we use dinosaur guts for :).  They should be able to tell you that Fossil Fuels were formed from prehistoric plants and animals that lived hundreds of millions of years ago. We use these fossil fuels to produce plastic, oil, and even makeup.

HOMEROOM: A big thanks for getting all the parent teacher forms back in!  I am only waiting on a couple more.  It looks like so far everyone has gotten their first pick of schedule times!  I can't wait to see everyone at conferences!  I have some great things to share!

Tuesday, September 22

MATH: Today was a good day.  We ended Unit 2 in Math with a test, which students are doing fabulous on; and started our Natural Resources unit in Science, which students are excited about!

Tomorrow we will make any test corrections that are necessary, and then dive into Natural Resources.  If students want to get a head start tonight they can check out the Natural Resources Board assigned to them in there Discovery Education Techbook Account.  Most know how to get there, but you may need to remind them that the user name is fcs with their four letters and four numbers  (ex: fcsmcca1234). The password is just their our letters and four numbers.


HOMEROOM: Today ALL students brought home a Parent Teacher Conference form.  If your child has siblings at Needham they brought home a small yellow slip to confirm the conference time that has already been scheduled for you.  If your child does not have siblings they brought home a small half sheet that allows you to sign up for a time.  It gives directions on how to sign up online or on the paper.  All slots will be first come first serve, so I recommend SIGNING UP ONLINE WITH GOOGLE CALENDAR or sending in your paper request first thing tomorrow.  You may even email me your request if you do not have Google Calendar and I will do what I can to schedule you in the appointment slot you request.

This week is College Go Week!  Please talk to your child about college.  Did you go? Why or why not? Where did or would you go? What kind of things would you like them to go to college for? Also, remind them to wear their college shirts, hats, pins, etc. to sport their favorite colleges!

Monday, September 21

Homeroom:There are some great pictures in the week 7 folder.  Be sure to visit our Picture Gallery on our classroom website to view them all. Yes that is right, I said Week 7. We are now in Week 8 of our 4th grade year.  Our first grading period report cards are just right around the corner.  That makes this a great time for us to meet and discuss your child's progress.  Beginning tomorrow you will be able to request a time for parent teacher conferences.  If your child has a sibling that goes to this school, their conference time has already been scheduled according to your other conferences.  These children will bring home a conference slip tomorrow letting you know the date and time of the conference.  Tomorrow I will also post a link that will allow any parents with a Google Calendar account to choose an available time slot.  If you do not have a Google Calendar account, I will be sending a slip of paper home for you to choose your top 3 preferences for time slots, and I promise to do the best I can to get you scheduled for 1 of those slots.  Please be sure to send in your request as soon as possible.

MATH: The Unit 2 Test is tomorrow. Students have a Test Review in their Feedback and Data Binders.  They had some time to work on it with a friend today, but probably have a bit more to do at home.  All students should come prepared to ask questions tomorrow.  We will have a short question answer period and then we will take our test.  Fourth graders - You've Got This!

Wednesday, September 16

MATH: It was a great day for graphing!  Be sure to ask your child how big their head is! We measured them today and made a Line Plot graph.  Of course we also found the numerical landmarks to go with the data.  It was great.  Tonight's homework has 2 sides, but we are only doing the Partial-Sums Addition side.  We are not quite ready for Column-Addition on our own yet. That side will be coming home for tomorrows homework after another day of review.  If you or your student need a review of Partial-Sums addition for tonight's homework, please watch this tutorial video. (Partial Sums Video Link)


HOMEROOM: We will be having Parent/Teacher Conferences on October 7th or 8th! Soon I will be posting a link for you to schedule a conference time with me. If you have students in other grades or classes here at Needham, I am currently working with the other teachers to coordinate schedules.

During the conference I will review both Math and Literacy data. If you would like Mrs. Moore to be present at the conference, please email me right away so we can coordinate schedules.

Tuesday, September 15

A big THANK YOU goes out to our classroom assistants, volunteers, and donors! Tomorrow is National Teacher's Assistant day and I want you to know I could not do it without you!!  Everything from sending in snacks, monetary donation for field trips, volunteering time in the classroom, and those assistants who just come in to cut out my laminating and make copies.  YOU ARE APPRECIATED!

If you would like more information on how you can assists in our classroom, please do not hesitate to contact me.  Trust me, we need all the help we can get!

Monday, September 14

FLAT ROCK WAS FANTASTIC!!  Great weather! Great activities! Great lessons! Great students!  Great Chaperones! And we also have some GREAT PHOTOS! Please take time to browse our Week 6 Picture Gallery. If you were a chaperone and have any good pictures to add to the gallery, please just send them my way and I will add them to the folder.



HOMEROOM: Due to the field trip last week, we do not have enough data to send home the Feedback and Data Binders today. Students do have Math and Literacy homework.  Be sure to check out the Homework page for more information.

MATH: Today we continued our study of landmarks - not geographical landmarks like the Statue of Liberty. We are studying numerical landmarks.  If you would like to engage your child in a conservation about their school day ask them to tell you some of the numerical landmarks we worked on.   They should be able to tell you the following:

• Maximum - the largest number found in a set of data.
• Minimum - the smallest number found in a set of data.
• Mode - the most common number found in a set of data (It is found the MOst.)
• Range - the difference between the maximum and minimum. (Maximum - Minimum = Range)
• Median - the number occurring in the middle of the set of data. 

Wednesday, September 9

TOMORROW IS THE DAY!  FLAT ROCK FIELD TRIP IS FINALLY HERE!!

Your child will need:
Students will need to be a car rider on Thursday morning. Please be here by 7:40, or your child will be counted tardy. Students will also need to be picked up on Friday afternoon around 1:45. Students can be picked up outside the Gym doors. Please do not park in the bus circle.

Chaperones:  
Please be at Needham by 7:40 am. We will need a few parents to help load the box truck. We will also be having a chaperone “meeting” in the 4th grade hallway at 8:00 am. We will be leaving Needham at 8:15 am. We will need you to ride the buses. Be ready for two days of Flat Rock fun with our fourth graders!

Last Packing Tips Reminder: 

• Put sleeping bag/blankets and pillows in a trash bag, marked with your name
• Put clothing and personal care items in a duffle bag or backpack, marked with your name
• Don’t forget a towel!
• Bring a set of clothes for Friday, and 2 extra sets just in case!
• Wear tennis shoes/hiking boots, but NO flip flops (except for shower use); bring an extra pair of shoes and socks just in case!
• Bring plastic bags for wet clothes (Wal-Mart bags work just fine!)
• Bring rain gear... all activities are rain or shine
• If you’re bringing a camera, make sure your name is on it!!
• Don’t forget a coat or heavy sweatshirt for the night hike, it can get quite chilly - put your name on the inside label. Shirts are lost every year and left behind. 

Leave at home: knives, weapons, flammables, personal electronic items

Excited to be going to Flat Rock!

Mrs. McCain :)

Tuesday, September 8

I was so glad to see everyone back, healthy and safe, after the long weekend.  I even heard about some great adventures that were had over the last 3 days.  I had a pretty good adventure myself on the farm.  We cleaned an repaired the chicken coop, weened the 6 week old kittens, cleaned the cattle area, bush hogged the fields and even had time to rearrange some things in the barn.  Needless to say, I was very glad to be back with the kids today.

Tomorrow we will finish our classroom read-a-loud, The Positive Dog, and begin a school-wide read-a-loud.  The Year of Billy Miller.  To begin our kick-off, all students are encouraged to wear their favorite ball cap tomorrow.

Feedback and Data Binders are going home today.  Please look through the binder with your child.  You will find a Science Test to review along with Literacy Data.  Show how important education is to you by filling out the reflection page with your child and making well thought out, achievable goals.

Flat Rock Field trip is just hours away:

•  All money should be turned in tomorrow.  If you are unable to meet this deadline, please contact me right away, so we can work it out.  
• If your child takes medication, you will need to bring it to the school clinic Thursday morning along with a detailed list of times and medications to be dispensed.  All medication should be in it's original prescription container. 
• All chaperones should be at the school as early as possible on Thursday. (Doors open at 7:20)  We can always use your help organizing students, packing, restroom breaks, etc.  You should be no later than 8:00.  The buses will leave at approximately 8:15.
• Luggage is not allowed on the bus.  There just isn't enough room.  Please bring the bags when you bring your child to school Thursday morning.  If you are unable to bring your child in the morning, you may bring the bags during or after school on Wednesday.  If you bring them during school, you may drop them off in the office with your child's name on each bag.  If you bring them after school when the office is closed, you may leave them inside the first set of glass doors. Custodians will be watching for luggage and they will bring the bags inside the locked doors throughout the night. 

Just in case you need to review it, here is the list of packing tips:

Put sleeping bag/blankets and pillows in a trash bag, marked with your name 

Put clothing and personal care items in a duffle bag or backpack, marked with your name 

Don’t forget a towel!

Bring a set of clothes for Friday, and an extra set just in case! 

Wear tennis shoes/hiking boots, but NO flip flops (except for shower use); 

Bring an extra pair of shoes and socks just in case! 

Bring plastic bags for wet clothes (Wal-Mart bags work just fine!) 

Bring rain gear… all activities are rain or shine 

If you’re bringing a camera, make sure your name is on it!! 

Don’t forget a coat/jacket for the night activities. It can get quite chilly 

Leave at home: knives, weapons, flammables, personal electronic items 

Friday, September 4

This was a great week for meeting learning objectives!! If you would like to have a discussion with your child about their school day, ask them what the cars mean and what color they would be for each objective.

NEXT WEEK IS FLAT ROCK!!  How exciting!! All money should be turned in by Tuesday (No School Monday).

I hope everyone has a wonderfully safe weekend.

Wednesday, September 2

It's a great day to be a Bulldog!  Today I introduced the new learning objective in Math and the students were able to show me that they were already able to independently LIST MANY EQUIVALENT NAMES FOR NUMBERS. We are also improving on yesterdays new objective of being able to IDENTIFY VARIOUS WAYS NUMBERS CAN BE USED.  If you would like to have a conversation with your child about their school day, ask them to list as many of the following ways numbers can be used as they can:

1. Counting
2. Measuring
3. Reference System
4. Comparing
5. Identification and Codes

To really challenge them, see if they can give you an example of each.

HOMEROOM: Permission slips should be turned in ASAP.  I will be making a call to anyone with a missing slip tonight.  Please try to have all money turned in by Friday. Next week will fly by!  We will not have school on Monday due to Labor Day.  We will have school as normal on Tuesday and Wednesday, but the Trip is on Thursday!!  Wahoo!  Be sure to check out our classroom website for a count down of the days!

Friday, August 28

Thumbs up to another great week of 4th grade!

Thank you to everyone that was able to make it to our parent meeting last night! We love sharing information with parents and making sure 4th grade is the best year yet! If you were not able to make the meeting, we understand!  We just want to make sure communication is open so feel free to contact us anytime you have a question.


Please be sure to turn in Flat Rock permission forms ASAP. Money can be turned in later.  Remember to indicate if you need financial assistance.  The sooner when know that you have a need, the better chance we have of helping everyone.  I want every student to attend... money is not an obstacle! If you know of another obstacle that may be in the way of your child participating, please contact me right away!

We have switched from Math to Science and it has been going very well.  We are learning about landforms with a concentration on deltas, canyons and dunes. If you would like to know more, ask your child to log onto their Discovery Science Techbook and teach you all about it.

Math will start up again on Wednesday. Be looking for Data Binders on Monday with the Unit 1 Assessment and a Unit 2 Parent Letter!

Have a fantastic weekend everyone!  Looking forward to seeing you again on Monday.

(Week 4 pictures have been added to our PICTURE GALLERY.  Be sure to check them out!)

Thursday, August 27

Homework change for Tonight - Study Links 1.8.  Updates have been made to the Homework page.

We look forward to seeing all parents at the 4th Grade Parent Meeting this evening from 6-7.

Wednesday, August 26

Math students are MARVELOUS!!! We had such a good testing day! Students took the test serious and their scores show it!!  It will be just a few days before we are able to send tests home, just because some students are finishing up or fixing errors.  You should expect to see Math Tests come home in Monday's Data Binders.  Please look for them because it will be a great cause for celebration!

Remember, our parent meeting is tomorrow from 6-7 in the Needham cafeteria.  Please come join us to have all your 4th grade questions answered.

Tuesday, August 25

Homeroom: Orange and yellow papers are coming home today with information about Thursday's meeting and FlatRock.  Please look this information over.

Math:  Test tomorrow over Unit 1.  Students are bringing home their study guide tonight.  They had time to work on it in class, but even if they finished, I asked them to review it with a parent at home.  They were also encouraged to bring their Math Notebook and SRB home to help them with the answers.  If they have any difficulty they should circle that question.  There will be time to ask questions before the test in the morning.   Remember, if you need an additional copy of the Test Review, all homework is available on our website.

Monday, August 24

YEP! WE DID IT!!! Today we were able to take our cool class picture! It did turn out pretty cool!!  I am so glad everyone is back and healthy!  Check out more cool class pictures in Week 4 of our Picture Gallery.

MATH: The HOMEWORK page is updated on our website so be sure to check it out.  While you are there you might notice the Unit Review for tomorrow's homework. We will have our first unit test this Wednesday.

Friday, August 21

Wow!  What an incredible week!  It really flew by.  The students have done a great job adapting to 4th grade!  They know the expectations and they follow them!  I couldn't ask for a better class. If you would like to see some adorable pictures of our shining stars be sure to check out our Picture Gallery with new pictures from the week!  Be warned though! The smiles are contagious!

Sadly one picture you won't see in the folder is our class picture.  We have had a hard time keeping everyone healthy and at school this week.  Please encourage students to eat healthy, get good sleep, and wash those hands!  Nothing compares to soap and water for keeping the germs away!

We decided that we weren't meant to take our class photo until Monday anyway!  We just found out today that we will be getting a new team member on Monday, so it all worked out for the best!  His name is Austin and we are excited for him to join our team!!

Just a reminder that on Thursday, Aug. 27 there will be a 4th Grade Parent Meeting at 6pm.  The parent meeting will cover all things 4th grade. We will also be discussing Flat Rock, our overnight field trip. The trip is Sept. 10-11 and will be $60 per person. There will be financial assistance available. It is the most fun, memorable trip our 4th graders will experience!  We will be sending printed reminder home next week, but if you run into a team mate that might not be getting updates yet, please make sure they are informed about this important meeting.

Thanks for all you do and the wonderful children that you let me spend my days with!

Tuesday, August 18

Fourth grade is off to a very smooth year! The students are doing a great job implementing the 4th grade procedures and expectations.  They act like they are pros!

MATH: Today in Math we worked on the properties of quadrilaterals and quadrangles.  If you want to involve your child in a conversation about their school day, try asking them the following questions:

What is the difference between a quadrilateral and quadrangle? There isn't one! A quadrilateral is a 4 sided shape and a quadrangle is a shape with 4 angles.  Shapes with 4 sides have 4 angles.  Shapes with 4 angles have 4 sides.  quadrilaterals and quadrangles are the same. 

Is a Triangle a Quadrangle? No! Tri means 3. quad means 4. A triangle has 3 sides A quadrilateral had 4.  

What are two examples of Quadrangles? Square, rectangle, trapezoid, rhombus, kite, parallelogram.

HOMEROOM: Tomorrow is the day!  Not only will be get to take our MATH NWEA, we - cross your fingers! - will also get to take our class picture.  Be sure to bring those sunglasses!!

Monday, August 17

Today started off on a very sad note - we were missing 3 of our friends who are home sick.  There must be something going around and we don't like it!  We are hoping that everyone is back and healthy as soon as possible.  When everyone is here we will take our cool class picture, so be sure to leave those sunglasses in your backpack.

Tomorrow will also begin NWEA Assessments for our class.  We will take our Literacy Assessment tomorrow morning and our Math Assessment on Wednesday.  Please make sure students get a good nights rest and a nutritious breakfast in the morning.  We want to be ready to do our best.

Tonight's homework is listed on the Homework page. For Math students should complete Study Links 1.3.  For Literacy they should finish the rough draft of their personal narrative and their sunglasses picture if they aren't finished yet.