2. Writing - Most of their work is in the journal. We will publish one writing piece each nine weeks so do not expect lots of graded pieces to go home each week. Journal - Our journals are “our playground for our pencils” in which we use to explore creative concepts. Cursive - We will focus on two letters a week. WRITING

3. Weekly Skill Each week we will explore an instructional spelling skill that follows a pattern. The student will have opportunities to make new words and apply these words in their writing. Assessment We do not test the skill through traditional spelling tests that encourage memorization; instead through authentic writing and application.. WORD WORK

4. READING  Reading in Class  Build stamina  Expand vocabulary  Increase fluency/speed  Improve comprehension  Develop love of reading  Reading at Home  Every night-20 minutes  Student accountability for their reading- agenda for now.  Skills  Using metacognition to think about their reading

6.  Manipulatives/Hands-on learning  AISD 90 minute math model  Drill and Practice  Problem Solving- critical thinking  Content Instruction –modeling and guided practice  Learning Groups- assessments, work stations, reinforcement of skills  Math Journals- concepts, examples, strategies on solving problems What does it look like in our daily lives? MATH

7. SCIENCE  Science Fair (optional, highly encouraged)  Observation Journals  Safety in the Lab  Scientific Tools  Matter  Ecosystems  Life cycles  Recycling  Sun, Earth, and Moon  Changes to the Earth  Force and Friction

8. Social Studies  Local Communities  Maps  Local Government  Citizenship  Economics  Inventors  Regions  Cultural Celebrations  Recycle Sale in December

9. State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness STAAR  Benchmarks  Nov. 11-13  Reading, Math, Science  Simulation  Feb. 10 Math  Feb. 11 Reading  STAAR Math****** April 21  STAAR Reading ******April 22

10. CASTLE TIME  30 Minute block from 9:30-10:00  Time for Intervention and/or Enrichment  Access to multiple teachers  Students can move from group to group as needed.

11. HOMEWORK  When homework is given, it should not take more than 30 minutes excluding reading time and math facts.  Homework will be written daily in their agenda.  Read nightly, at least 20-30 minutes, and stay accountable through agenda logs for a few weeks.  Word Work skills will be practiced through word work and application activities each week.  Projects/assignments will be given throughout the year.

12. CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT Positive Incentives vary by class Study Hall (Use time wisely) “Think Track” (ZAP PAD) Zap report sent home on Fridays

13. -HELP WANTED-  Minimizing tardies and absences  Submit Volunteer application for back - ground check ( yearly)  Sign agenda each night

14. PARENT CONFERENCES Conferences are scheduled for Thurs., Oct. 16th and Tues., Oct. 21 st from 3:30 to 8:00. This year conferences are optional; however, if you prefer to schedule a conference, please sign up using signupgenius.com.

15. Notes of Interest Time For Kids – $5 Scholastic Book Order monthly – Great Deals! Online ordering allows one free book for classroom per student order Communication: e-mail, notes, agenda, folder, newsletter, teacher websites- Feel free to e-mail anytime, as you are a key component to your child’s education. Field Trips to be determined soon… Special events that you don’t want to miss: Mayoral Elections, Recycle Sale, Living Library, Mother’s Day Tea

16. Thanks for Coming!