Teacher- Parent Communication Students benefit greatly when there is a strong partnership between teachers and parents. Please feel free to contact us with any questions, comments, or concerns. Contact information is provided in your packet. The Skinner North Intermediate Website has important information and resources posted.

Attendance It is very important that students are in school every day. If your child needs to miss school, please their homeroom teacher as well as call the office so the absence can be excused. Each classroom has a “Catch-Up Captain” that collects classwork and homework for absent students. It is the student’s responsibility to collect their missing work and seek clarification from classmate or teacher if needed. # of days missed= # of days students have to make-up work

Science Mrs. Kleinertz Grades 4 th -6 th

Science Curriculum – Issue oriented and problem solving approach – Students explain and apply science concepts – Students use evidence to explain outcomes and make decisions about scientific issues. – Construct knowledge through experiences in Labs – Other Activities: readings, models, debates, role plays, and projects – Literacy skills are integrated into daily curriculum – Technology is used to enhance learning of abstract concepts, communicate learning with other classmates and teacher, and strengthen research skills 4 th and 5 th Grade6 th Grade Foss Program STC Program Sepup Program

Science Class Daily Journal Writing- brainstorm ideas, background knowledge, review concepts learned Challenge Investigation/Lab – Group Roles (Procedure Captain, Materials Person, Facilitator, Spokesperson) Small group and whole class discussion Focus on teamwork Lab Reflections/Analysis Questions

Instructional Model

8 Science and Engineering Practices 1.Asking Questions & Defining Problems 2.Developing & Using Models 3.Planning & Carrying Out Investigations 4.Analyzing & Interpreting Data 5.Using Math & Computational Thinking 6.Constructing Explanations & Designing Solutions 7.Engaging in argument from evidence 8.Obtaining, Evaluating, & Communicating Information

Quarter 2 Science Project Science Fair Project All 4 th, 5 th, and 6 th grade students will be participating in the project. 4 th and 5 th Grade will not be competitive 6 th grade students will be eligible to compete in school Science Fair in December. Network Science Fair- Late January (date not yet released)

Science ISAT Students are testing in Science in 4 th and 7 th Grade. ISAT prep is integrated in curriculum throughout the entire school year.

Supporting Science Learning at Home Go to the library with your child, check out books that relate to the current unit your child is learning. Read books together and discuss concepts. Watch short video clips online with your child about concepts they are learning: NOVA Science, Discovery for Kids ISAT Science Practice Test (4 th grade) Online Look for News articles that relate to concepts your child is learning. Cut them out and discuss how science concepts apply to real-life situations or issues. Study vocabulary with students- make flash cards or make create a vocabulary game. With your child, research different science careers online that your child is interested in. Practice engaging in the process of the scientific method by conducting simple experiments at home, recording data, and presenting results to your family. Assist student s in Quarter 2 Science Fair Project by helping to obtain materials, conduct the investigation, and record/ interpret the data.