Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
December 17, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
It’s been another one of those weeks and I’ve decided to send out the
Parent Newsletter on Thursday to alleviate some of the pressure on Friday.
Thank you to the parents who organized, set up, and cleaned up our 5th Grade
Holiday Breakfast. I think it’s safe to say that a fun time was had by all!
Thank you very much for the generous gift cards to Nordstrom and Burke
Williams, my two favorite places! I am looking forward to a day of pampering
and shopping over the holiday break.
5th Grade Memories on DVD
If you would like to order the 5th Grade Memories DVDs, orders and money are
due tomorrow. If you are interested, simply send in a check for $30.00 made
payable to Bollinger Canyon School. Thanks.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students finished up their Book Club groups. Please check the web
site so you are aware of when your child has projects due. When these scored
assignments are in your child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and return
them tomorrow. Also, many students will complete an Oral Presentation
tomorrow. This will be sent home the week we return from Winter Break. FYI-
When we return in January, any Book Club Project that is turned in late, will
be lowered by ½ a score. Ex. If they receive a “3”, but it was turned in late,
they will now receive a “2.5”.
Math: Students made corrections to the Chapter 9 Test, which you will find in
your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return this tomorrow.
Social Studies: On hold this week so that students could focus on their Bio
Report.
Bio Report: I’m always surprised and excited to learn new facts about these
famous people during our oral presentations. Most students worked very on this
report and were proud to be able to show off their finished projects. It was
nice to see many of you last night at our Bio Night. I’m sorry that more of
you were not able to attend. During a class discussion about the process of
this project, ALL students said they learned many interesting facts about
their person, many said they’d like to learn more, and several said that they
could have put more effort into this long term project. Well, they’ll get the
chance to show this when we do our final long term project, which is the State
Report. Students are bringing home their projects and scored rubrics today.
Please make sure to review, sign, and return these tomorrow. Students have
been told that if they are missing their signed rubrics, they will not be able
to watch “The Pursuit of Happyness” tomorrow. There are two sheets stapled
together. Please sign and return both of them.
Science: You will find your child’s graded Chapter 3 Test in your Parent
Folder. Please review, sign, and return this tomorrow. (NOTE: In addition to
our normal scoring, I’ve also included the percentage.) We began Chapter 1:
Structure of Living Things. This week we read and discussed Lesson 1: Cells,
which focused of the different parts and functions of plant and animal cells.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Quick Check pages 6 - 9.
This assignment is due Thursday, January 7.
Computer Lab: Students worked on their typing skills using Mavis Beacon.
Dates to Remember:
Dec. 18 5th Grade Sign-A-Long for School 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. in the MPR
Final day to turn in form and money for 5th Grade Memories DVDs
Jan. 1 Winter Break Ends
Jan. 18 Martin Luther King Holiday – NO SCHOOL
Jan. 25 Staff Development Day - NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
Feb. 15 President’s Day – NO SCHOOL
______ Yes, I would like to purchase ______ copy(s) of the 5th Grade Memories,
at $30.00 each. Check should be made out to Bollinger Canyon.
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
December 11, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Thanks again to all of the parents who drove/chaperoned on our trip to
Glide this week. Students had a wonderful experience and I heard many of them
expressing an interest in volunteering there again with their families! This
has sure been a crazy week. In addition to our field trip, students have been
working on finishing up their Bio Report (We’ve spent over 3 hours in the
Computer Lab this week typing.), we’ve been busy wrapping up gifts for the
Adopt-A-Families (On Thursday, Mrs. Austin and I delivered 31 boxes filled
with gifts for 6 families in need this Holiday Season), and we practiced for
the upcoming Sign-A-Long for several hours. WOW, we’re looking forward to one
more week of school and then our two week break!!
5th Grade Memories on DVD
Like last year, I am offering parents the chance to get many of our 5th grade
memories memorialized on film. Throughout the year I will tape field trips,
Promotion, and class activities. At this point, I have the footage. (Class
Constitution, around the class, MSI field trip, art with Ms. Tess, buddies,
etc.), and will work on the editing and burning the DVDs during Winter Break.
If you would like these memories I am asking that you send in $30 per copy.
(They might make nice gifts for grandparents.) This money will be used to
purchase DVDs (each set will consist of 3 one hour and forty-five minute,
labeled DVDs), their cases, and cover pages. (Remaining money will be used to
purchase items for the classroom.) On the inside of the cover there will be a
list of the chapters contained on the DVD. The DVD itself will be similar to
a DVD movie, in that you will have a main screen with the option of starting
from the beginning, or going through the different chapters. (This means if
you want you can go directly to our MSI field trip even though it my be in the
middle of the end of the DVD.) This will be the only opportunity for you to
purchase the 5th Grade Memories. Due to space issues, once I have burned all
of the DVDs I will need to delete the movie from my hard drive before I can
begin the second DVD. If you are interested in receiving a copy of the
memories, please fill in the section provided at the bottom of the newsletter,
and include the appropriate money. Thank you.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in their Book Club groups. Please check the
web site so you are aware of when your child has projects due. When these
scored assignments are in your child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and
return them the following Monday. Also, many students completed an Oral
Presentation this week. When you see your child’s Oral Presentation
Rubric in your Parent Folder, please review, sign, and return it on Monday.
Math: We finished Chapter 9: Factors and Multiples, and took the Chapter 9
Test. Many students were still confused on finding the Greatest Common Factor,
so we’ll continue to review this skill and I’ll reassess them next week.
Social Studies: On hold this week so that students could focus on their Bio
Report.
Bio Report: Final Projects are due Monday, December 14. Remember, students
must also resubmit their Notes Packet, Rough Draft Packet, and signed
Check-Off sheet. Oral Presentations will be Monday-Wednesday. I hope to see
all of you at Bio Night, which is on Wednesday, December 16 between 6:00 –
7:00 p.m. in Rooms 505 and 504.
Science: Students completed a Chapter 3 Review and Study Guide, which were
reviewed in class. The test was given on Friday.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Quick Check pages 2 - 5.
This assignment is due Thursday, December 17. Class time was given for
students to begin this homework.
Computer Lab: We spent over 3 hours this week in the Computer Lab working on
final drafts of the Bio Report, which are due Monday!
Dates to Remember:
Dec. 14 Final Bio Report due by today
(See above to know what else needs to be turned in with final project.)
Dec. 14- Bio Report Oral Presentations in class
Dec. 16
Dec. 16 Bio Night 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505 and 504
Dec. 17 5th Grade Sign-A-Long for Family and Friends 9:00 – 9:45 a.m.
Dec. 18 5th Grade Sign-A-Long for School 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. in the MPR
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
December 4, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Our next field trip, to Glide Memorial, is on Thursday, December 10. The
following parents will be driving / chaperoning: Mr. Rodrigue (6), Mrs. Law
(4), Mrs. Gao (4), Mrs. Ashley (5), Mrs. Hutchins (4), Mrs. Chiao (4), Mrs.
Glazzy (4), and Mr. Williams (4). Please make sure that you have completed and
turned in:
1) 2009-2010 Volunteer Clearance Form (just need to do this once)
2) Adult Chaperone Volunteer Participation in Voluntary Activity Hold
Harmless and Medical Treatment Authorization Form (sent home with your child
last week).
3) Personal Automobile Use Permission Form (sent home last week- WE ALSO NEED
A COPY OF YOUR AUTOMOBILE INSRANCE)
Remember that chaperones and students need to meet in Room 505 no later than
5:45 a.m. We will arrive back to campus before lunchtime. See handout in
Parent Folder for more information.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in their Book Club groups. Please check the
web site so you are aware of when your child has projects due. When these
scored assignments are in your child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and
return them the following Monday. (FYI- As students finished up their last
book, groups advanced to the next level. Students have been advised that this
means the books will become a little harder and the subject matter may be a
little more advanced. If you notice your child struggling, please remind them
to come talk to me. Thanks.)
Math: We began Chapter 9: Factors and Multiples. This week students reviewed
the concepts of listing factors, determining if a number is prime or
composite, finding prime factors, and finding common factors and the greatest
common factor.
Social Studies: On hold this week so that students could focus on their Bio
Report.
Bio Report: All students received their Notes Packet and Rough Draft Packet
back by Tuesday of this week, along with a check-off sheet letting them know
what they needed to work on before completing the final project. I asked
students to share this sheet with you and to get it signed. If you have not
done so yet, please do so ASAP. Students are being fined $mith Bucks each day
that it is not signed. Students also received the special paper for their
Timeline. Remember, along with their Final Projects, which are due Monday,
December 14, students must also resubmit their Notes Packet, Rough Draft
Packet, and signed Check-Off sheet. Thanks
Science: Students completed the Chapter 3: Human Body Systems, review. The
Chapter 3 Test is Friday, December 11.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Vocabulary pages 66 - 67.
This assignment is due Thursday, December 10. Class time was given for
students to begin this homework.
2nd Step Program: Lesson 9 focused on ways students can ignore the impulse to
lie. We also talked about consequences of lying and of telling the truth.
Sign Language: We met more this week with Mrs. Bullock to learn how to sign 12
holiday songs. A couple of students were assigned solos.
Computer Lab: We spent a couple of hours this week in the Computer Lab working
on final drafts of the Bio Report. Students should continue working on this at
home also. All writing must be typed.
Dates to Remember:
Dec. 8 Cookie Dough orders can be picked up between 2:00 – 6:00 in the MPR
Dec. 9 Items for Adopt-A-Family due by today!
Dec. 10 Field trip to Glide Memorial – meet in Room 505 by 5:45 a.m.
See handout in Parent Folder
Dec. 11 Chapter 3 Science Test
Dec. 14 Final Bio Report due by today
Dec. 14- Bio Report Oral Presentations in class
Dec. 16
Dec. 16 Bio Night 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505 and 504
Dec. 17 5th Grade Sign-A-Long for Family and Friends 9:00 – 9:45 a.m.
Dec. 18 5th Grade Sign-A-Long for School 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. in the MPR
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
November 20, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Thank you for the quick response regarding our next field trip, to Glide
Memorial, on Thursday, December 10. The following parents will be driving /
chaperoning: Mr. Rodrigue (6), Mrs. Law (4), Mrs. Gao (4), Mrs. Ashley (5),
Mrs. Hutchins (4), Mrs. Chiao (4), Mrs. Glazzy (4), and Mr. Williams (4).
Please make sure that you have completed and turned in:
1) 2009-2010 Volunteer Clearance Form (just need to do this once a year)
2) Adult Chaperone Volunteer Participation in Voluntary Activity Hold
Harmless and Medical Treatment Authorization Form (sent home with your child
today).
3) Personal Automobile Use Permission Form (sent home with your child today)
4) Student Permission Slip (sent home with your child today)
Remember that chaperones and students need to meet in Room 505 no later than
5:30 a.m. We will arrive back to campus before lunchtime. More information
will be sent out when we return from Thanksgiving Break.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in their Book Club groups. Please check the
web site so you are aware of when your child has projects due. When these
scored assignments are in your child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and
return them the following Monday. (FYI- As students finished up their last
book, groups advanced to the next level. Students have been advised that this
means the books will become a little harder and the subject matter may be a
little more advanced. If you notice your child struggling, please remind them
to come talk to me. Thanks.)
Math: We completed Chapter 8: Shapes. This week students reviewed basic
geometric ideas (lines, line segments, rays, points, parallel lines,
intersecting lines, perpendicular lines, and a plane). We also reviewed the
different ways to classify polygons based on the number of sides and their
angles. You will find the scored Chapter 8 Test, which was given this week, in
your Parent Folder. Before you review, sign, and return it, please make sure
your child has corrected any missed problems on a separate sheet of graph
paper that has been stapled to the back of the test.
Social Studies: Students completed the Chapter Review sheet and Study Guide,
which could be used when completing the Chapter 1 Test this week. Please
review, sign, and return this test, which is in your Parent Folder, on Monday
when we return from Thanksgiving Break. NOTE: While going over the directions
a student asked if spelling counted on this test. We decided that vocabulary
words and phrases that were written on the test needed to be spelled correctly
or they would be marked wrong.
Bio Report: When students finished up their assigned work, they were able to
work on their notes and rough draft for their Bio Report. REMEMBER: Both the
Notes Packet and Rough Draft Packet are due by Monday, November 30.
Science: Students finished Chapter 3: Human Body Systems. This week students
read and discussed Lesson 5: The Excretory System, which focused on how our
body filters blood, the ways we eliminate waste, and what happens when our
kidneys stop working.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 60 - 65. This assignment is due Thursday, December 3. Class time was
given for students to begin this homework.
2nd Step Program: This week we began Unit 2: Impulse Control and Problem
Solving. Lesson 8 focused on ways to calm down when a problem arises. You will
also find a copy of a poster we discussed in class, which reminds students of
some different strategies they can use at home.
Class Election: I’m excited to announce our 2nd Trimester Class Officers:
President: Kelsie Abadir, Vice-President: Kyle Glazzy, Secretary: Quinn
Williams, and Treasure: Lexi Kozlowski. Congratulations!
1st Trimester Auction: Students were able to use their $mith Bucks this week
to bid on fun items including books, small games, art supplies, and stuffed
animals.
Sign Language: We began meeting with Mrs. Bullock to learn how to sign 12
holiday songs. See flyer in Parent Folder for more information about dates of
performances.
Drama: We got together with Mrs. Austin’s class this week to practice our
songs. CDs were sent home with each child a couple of weeks ago. Please make
sure that your child is practicing all songs!
Dates to Remember:
Nov. 23- Thanksgiving Break – No School
Nov. 27
Nov. 30 Bio Report Notes Packet AND Rough Draft Packet due by today.
Dec. 9 Items for Adopt-A-Family due by today!
(See flyer in Parent Folder)
Dec. 10 Field trip to Glide Memorial – meet in Room 505 no later than 5:30 a.m.
Dec. 14 Final Bio Report due by today
Dec. 14- Bio Report Oral Presentations in class
Dec. 16
Dec. 16 Bio Night 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505 and 504
Dec. 17 5th Grade Sign-A-Long for Family and Friends 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. in the MPR
See flyer in Parent Folder)
Dec. 18 5th Grade Sign-A-Long for School 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. in the MPR
(See flyer in Parent Folder)
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
November 13, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Students worked hard this week finishing up our 1st Trimester assessments.
Remember that your child will bring home their report card on Wednesday,
November 18.
Assessment Alert
Another packet of assessments came home on Tuesday and should have been
returned on Thursday. If you find any assessments lying around your home,
please send them in on Monday. These assessments are vital as I fill out your
child’s report card.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students took the WOD Test this week. If you haven’t reviewed,
signed, and returned this, please do so on Monday. Students continue to meet
in their Book Club groups. Please check the web site so you are aware of when
your child has projects due. When these scored assignments are in your
child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and return them the following Monday.
Math: We finished Chapter 7: Dividing Decimals, and the test was given this
week. Students were asked to correct any missed problems before asking you to
review, sign, and return this test.
Social Studies: Students were given time each day to work on taking notes and
to begin their Rough Draft Packets, which were given out on Tuesday. Both the
Notes Packet and Rough Draft Packet are due by Monday, November 30. Students
finished Chapter 1: The First Americans. This week we read and discussed
Lesson 3: Early Civilizations, which focused on the Olmecs, Mound Builders,
and Anasazi people.
Science: Students continued Chapter 3: Human Body Systems. This week students
read and discussed Lesson 4: The Circulatory System, which focused on how
materials are transported through your body, the different parts of the heart,
how blood vessels work, and how the Circulatory and Respiratory Systems work
together.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 54 - 59. This assignment is due Thursday, November 19. Class time was
given for students to begin this homework.
2nd Step Program: This week we finished Lesson 7, which focused on accepting
differences.
Dates to Remember:
Nov. 13 End of 1st Trimester
Nov. 16 2nd Trimester Class Elections
Nov. 18 Report Cards go home today
1st Trimester Class Auction
Nov. 20 PJ Day for Room 505
Nov. 23- Thanksgiving Break – No School
Nov. 27
Nov. 30 Bio Report Notes Packet AND Rough Draft Packet due by today.
Dec. 14 Final Bio Report due by today
Dec. 14- Bio Report Oral Presentations in class
Dec. 16
Dec. 16 Bio Night 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505 and 504
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
November 6, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Have we all traveled through time? Students have barely had time to relax
after finishing our Map Projects and assembling our USA Pizzas and the end of
the 1st Trimester is already next week! That means….. it’s assessment time.
We’ve started taking these short assessments in class this week and will
finish up next week. I have blocked out time each day for these tests, so
please make sure your child is present and on time every day. Make-ups are
difficult to schedule, and may mean your child will miss recess. Below you
will find the 5th grade standards that will be assessed this trimester.
Please review them. Report cards will be sent home on Wednesday, November 18.
Assessment Alert
The following assessments were given this week and are in your Parent Folder.
Please review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Comprehension: Summarize (blue)
Decimal Assessment #1 (blue)
Fraction / Decimal / Percent Equivalents Assessment #2 (purple)
Multiplication Assessment (decimals) #1 (purple)
Whole Number Assessment #1 (purple)
1st Trimester Math Assessment #3 (purple)
1st Trimester Math Assessment #1 (blue)
Comprehension: Make Predictions / Draw Conclusions (yellow)
GROW Assessment (purple)
Vocabulary (pink)
Prime Factorization #1 (pink)
Sequence of Events (blue)
Predicting Outcomes (purple)
Essential Skills to Be Assessed for 1st Trimester
Fifth Grade:
LANGUAGE ARTS:
Word Analysis, Fluency, Systematic Vocabulary Development
• Reads grade level material fluently and accurately
• Uses knowledge of word origins and word relationships to determine the
meaning of vocabulary
Reading Comprehension / Literary Response
• Identifies and understands the main idea and significant details presented
in text
• Draws conclusions and inferences about text and supports with evidence from
text
• Distinguishes facts, inferences, and opinions from text
• Understands and analyzes narrative text (main problem / conflict,
character action/ motives, literary elements, and themes
• Independently applies reading strategies
Listening and Speaking
• Listens and responds critically to oral communication, asking relevant
questions to support understanding
• Uses effective techniques of oral language in discussions
Writing Strategies, Applications, Conventions
• Writes fluent, focused, and clear texts – Response to Literature
• Expresses ideas fluently and establishes and maintains focus in multiple
paragraph compositions
• Revises and edits selected drafts to improve writing
• Uses correct sentence structure including grammar, punctuation, and
capitalization
• Spells grade level words correctly in written work
HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES:
• Geography
• U.S. History – shows understanding of development of the nation
MATH:
Number Sense
• Understands and manipulates decimals and very large numbers
• Understands concept of fraction, decimal, and percent equivalents
• Understands prime factorization of numbers to 50 (FYI- If students can
prime factorize numbers larger than 50, they will receive a “4” for this
standard.)
• Estimates, calculates, and solves problems: whole numbers and decimals
Algebra and Functions
• Understands algebraic expressions and equations: solves and evaluates
Statistics / Data Analysis / Probability
• Collects, displays, analyzes, compares, and interprets different data sets
Math Reasoning
• Understands / uses / explains different problem solving strategies
SCIENCE:
(Standards from District in Progress)
• Participates in activities and discussions (LAB and in class)
• Demonstrates understanding of concepts (LAB and in class)
ARTS, PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SOCIAL GROWTH, LIFE SKILLS
• ALL SKILLS IN THESE AREAS WILL BE ASSESSED
WORK/STUDY SKILLS
• ALL SKILLS IN THIS AREA WILL BE ASSESSED
Around the Classroom:
Reading: We played Word of the Day Bingo this week to help review for the WOD
Test, which is Monday, November 9. Students continue to meet in their Book
Club groups. Please check the web site so you are aware of when your child has
projects due. When these scored assignments are in your child’s Parent
Folder, please review, sign, and return them the following Monday.
Math: We began Chapter 7: Dividing Decimals. This week students learned how to
divide decimals by a whole number and another decimal.
Social Studies: Students were assigned their first report this week, which is
a biography. Students were asked to bring home their Directions Packet on
Tuesday for you to review and sign. If your child has not shown you this
packet, please ask them about it. I was to make sure that all parents
understand the expectations and due dates. This week students spent extra time
in the Computer Lab and at home doing research. In class we have put together
a Notes Packet, which should be used to take NOTES, not complete sentences /
paragraphs. STUDENTS NEED TO HAVE ALL OF THEIR RESEARCH INFORMATION IN CLASS
EVERY DAY NEXT WEEK, AS CLASS TIME WILL BE GIVEN EACH DAY FOR STUDENTS TO WORK
ON THEIR REPORT! Next week I will hand out the Rough Draft Packets, which will
be where students change their notes into sentence form. Both the Notes Packet
and Rough Draft Packet are due by Monday, November 30. Students continued Unit
1: The Ancient Americas, Chapter 1: The First Americans. This week we read and
discussed Lesson 2: Ancient Indians, which focused on the tools used by
giant-mammal hunters and how the end of the Ice Age affected the early peoples.
Science: Students continued Chapter 3: Human Body Systems. This week students
read and discussed Lesson 3: The Respiratory System.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 50 - 53. This assignment is due Thursday, November 12. Class time was
given for students to begin this homework.
Computer Lab: Students finished up their Who Am I? project.
2nd Step Program: This week we finished Lesson 6, which focused on how to
actively listen. During our class discussion students came up with many ways
to show that you are actively listening. We also talked about why it is
important to have and use this skill.
Dates to Remember:
Nov. 9 Word of the Day Test
Nov. 9 – Time given in class to work on Bio Report each day. Have materials
in class.
Nov. 13
Nov. 10 Cookie Orders due by today!
Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day - No School
Nov. 12 Intent to Run for Class Officer due by today
Nov. 13 End of 1st Trimester
Nov. 16 2nd Trimester Class Elections
Nov. 18 Report Cards go home today
1st Trimester Class Auction
Nov. 20 PJ Day for Room 505
Nov. 23- Thanksgiving Break – No School
Nov. 27
Nov. 30 Bio Report Notes Packet AND Rough Draft Packet due by today.
Dec. 14 Final Bio Report due by today
Dec. 14- Bio Report Oral Presentations in class
Dec. 16
Dec. 16 Bio Night 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505 and 504
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 29, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
We have a hectic day ahead of us tomorrow, so I thought I’d do Parent
Folders today. Remember, your child needs to bring their pizza items to school
with them tomorrow. If you volunteered to bake a pizza, please make sure you
pick it up at 11:00. Pizzas take around 30-45 minutes to bake (ovens at
375-400 degrees). Students will eat the pizzas in the class and then go out
for recess. Each child needs to bring their own drink.
What did she just say?
Passersby may have heard a little more giggling coming from our room this
week. To help stop the (nervous) laughing that usually accompanies Family
Life, I started using some of the technical terms for body parts. This has
actually tied in great with the Science unit we just started, Human Body
Systems. By getting students used to hearing and saying these terms, we can
get a lot more done when we get to the lessons.
Welcome to Room 505
Last week we were excited to welcome Fariz Febianto and his family to our
class and community. Fariz is from Indonesia and has been in the USA for only
a few weeks. The students have been great at helping him around the classroom
and on the playground. Welcome!
Halloween Schedule
8:45 – 9:30 – Halloween Parade on blacktop.
9:30 – 10:45 – Students create US Pizzas in class.
11:00 – 12:00 – class instruction – Parents take pizzas home to bake.
12:00 – 1:00 – Students eat pizza in classroom then have recess.
1:15 – 1:45 – class instruction (P.E.)
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students finished their final Word of the Day for the 1st Trimester.
Each day they are to study 7 WODs. The test will be on Monday, November 9.
Students continue to meet in their Book Club groups. Please check the web site
so you are aware of when your child has projects due. When these scored
assignments are in your child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and return
them the following Monday.
Math: Flying Spaghetti took the Chapter 5 test this week, which came home on
Tuesday, and the Chapter 6 test today, which you will find in your Parent
Folder. Please make sure to review, sign, and return both of these tests on
Monday. Math of Potter Twilight finished Chapter 6 (multiplying decimals) and
took the test today. You will find this in your Parent Folder. Please review,
sign, and return it on Monday. Both groups have now joined!
Social Studies: Students turned in their Map Projects and I am impressed by
the job they did! We began Unit 1: The Ancient Americas, Chapter 1: The First
Americans. This week we read and discussed Lesson 1: The Search for Early
Peoples, which focused on Beringia, the land bridge that connected Asia and
North America, and the purpose of origin stories.
Science: Students began Chapter 3: Human Body Systems. This week students read
and discussed Lesson 1: The Human Body, which focused on the different organ
systems and what they do. We also read and discussed Lesson 2: The Digestive
System. In this lesson we learned about the process of digestion, how food is
broken down, and the ins-and-outs of the large intestine. In conjunction with
this unit, students labeled and assembled a skeleton, including organs.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 44 - 49. This assignment is due Thursday, November 5. Class time was
given for students to begin this homework.
Buddies: We met again with our 2nd grade buddies and finished our get to know
you activity. This is on display in the computer lab. Check it out if you can!
Computer Lab: To help prepare in making our skeletons, students worked on two
different web sites dealing with the different bones, their locations, and names.
2nd Step Program: In this week’s lesson students talked about situations and
if they were fair or not. In unfair situations we discussed ways to make it
more fair.
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 30 Halloween Parade 8:45 a.m.
Early Dismissal – 1:45
Nov. 9 Word of the Day Test
Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day - No School
Nov. 13 End of 1st Trimester
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 23, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Thank you to the parent chaperones who came with us to MSI. The students,
as well as myself, were elated when groups caught not only two baby sharks,
but a much larger one too! Students are also excited that Halloween and the
infamous US Pizza making activity is finally here. We will be making pizzas
Friday morning, so please make sure your child comes to school with all items
they signed up to bring. If you volunteered to bake a pizza, please make sure
you pick it up at 11:00. Pizzas take around 30-45 minutes to bake. Students
will eat the pizzas in the class and then go out for recess. Each child needs
to bring their own drink.
Halloween Schedule
8:45 – 9:30 – Halloween Parade on blacktop.
9:30 – 10:45 – Students create US Pizzas in class.
11:00 – 12:00 – class instruction – Parents take pizzas home to bake.
12:00 – 1:00 – Students eat pizza in classroom then have recess.
1:15 – 1:45 – class instruction (P.E.)
Around the Classroom:
Reading: We read a non-fiction piece from our reading anthology entitled Eye
of the Storm, which ties into our current unit of study in Science. Students
finished a comprehension packet based on this article. Students continue to
meet in their Book Club groups. Please check the web site so you are aware of
when your child has projects due. When these scored assignments are in your
child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and return them the following Monday.
Math: Flying Spaghetti took the Chapter 4 test this week. It was brought home
for you to sign after students corrected any missed problems. If you have not
reviewed, signed, and returned this test, please do so ASAP. These students
began Chapter 5, which focuses on expressions. Math of Potter Twilight began
Chapter 6, which focuses on multiplying decimals.
Social Studies: Students reviewed for the Constitution Quiz, which was given
this week. Students have corrected any missed problems using their
Constitution Packets. You will find this quiz in your Parent Folder. Please
review, sign, and return this on Monday. REMINDER: Our Map Project is due on
Monday. Students were given several opportunities this week to clarify any
questions they had.
Science: Students completed a Chapter 5 Study Guide in preparation for the
test, which was given today. You will find this scored assessment in your
Parent Folder. (Note, students have corrected any missed problems on a
separate sheet of paper.) Please review, sign, and return this on Monday.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 40 - 43. This assignment is due Thursday, October 29. Class time was
given for students to begin this homework.
Buddies: We met again with our 2nd grade buddies to work on our get to know
you activity, which we are hoping to finish next week.
Computer Lab: Students continue working on their All About Me project. They
were given some interesting links to gather information about themselves. If
your child hasn’t already shared this with you, please ask them about it!
2nd Step Program: To help us catch up a little, we completed three lessons
this week. We discussed how students can communicate their feelings and give
support to friends. Students had the chance to do some role playing, which is
always a class favorite. In our second lesson we discussed how our actions can
effect others’ feelings. In our final lesson we talked about how others might
feel as a result of their or another’s actions.
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 26 Map Project due
Oct. 26 – Red Ribbon Week (Monday – Crazy Hat Day; Tuesday - Crazy Hair Day;
Oct. 30 Wednesday- Wear Red; Thursday – Sport Jersey Day
Oct. 30 Halloween Parade 8:45 a.m.
Early Dismissal – 1:45
Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day - No School
Nov. 13 End of 1st Trimester
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 15, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Yes, we do have school tomorrow, but it will be a crazy day, so our weekly
newsletter is coming out on Thursday. Our MSI trip is tomorrow! Parent
chaperones and students must be in Room 505 by 5:40 a.m. The bus will be
pulling out of the parking lot at 6:00 AM and I would hate to have to leave
anyone behind. Students / chaperones need to dress for any kind of weather.
Closed toe shoes are a MUST! We go rain or shine! Students cannot bring
umbrellas! MSI will provide rain gear that can be worn with the life preserver
if needed. While students are not allowed to wear hats, I would recommend a
sweatshirt with a hood or a knit cap. Children should eat a healthy breakfast.
A small non-messy snack (ie. granola bar, fruit) can be eaten on the bus when
we arrive. We’re trying to go “garbage less” for lunch, so please plan
accordantly. Students should bring a backpack with a water bottle, hand towel
(to use if they get dirty / wet) and their lunch. Depending on traffic, we
should arrive back to Bollinger Canyon at around 2:00. If you would like to
take your child home early, please make sure you sign them out in the office.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in their Book Club groups. Please check the
web site so you are aware of when your child has projects due. When these
scored assignments are in your child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and
return them the following Monday.
Math: Flying Spaghetti finished Chapter 4, which focused on division. A
chapter review will be given on Tuesday, and this group will be given the
chapter test on Wednesday. Math of Potter Twilight finished Chapter 5, which
focused on expressions, and took the test this week. You will find this scored
assessment in your Parent Folders. As usual, students are asked to correct any
missed problems before you review, sign, and return this test in your Parent
Folder.
Social Studies: We finished discussing the Constitution packet.
Science: Working with a partner in the Computer Lab, students used a
Dichotomous Key to identify several types of trees. Later in the week,
students completed a quiz again using a Dichotomous Key, a skill we will need
for MSI, to identify types of fish. Students had the chance to play more of
the MSI board games that were made. Students took the MSI Comprehension Test
and the MSI Vocabulary Test this week. (FYI- Students were given 15 minutes to
work on the comprehension test on their own. They were then given 15 minutes
in which they could use their packets to help answer the questions.) You will
find these scored tests in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return
these on Monday.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 126-127. This assignment is due Thursday, October 23. Class time was
given for students to begin this homework.
Spelling: You will find your child’s 2nd scored States and Capital Test in
your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return this. Remember, I will
record your child’s best score out of the final two cumulative tests.
Buddies: We met with our 2nd grade buddies to work on our get to know you
activity we began a few weeks ago.
Computer Lab: Students began working on an interesting All About Me project
this week. They were given some interesting links to gather information about
themselves. If your child hasn’t already shared this with you, please ask them
about it!
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 16 MSI Field Trip – meet in Room 505 no later than 5:45 a.m.
Kids Night Out
Box Tops collection for 1st Trimester ends today!
Oct. 19 Reflection due by today (see 2nd flyer in Parent Folder)
Oct. 21 Chapter 4 Math Test- Flying Spaghetti
Oct. 23 Chapter 5 Science Test
Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day - No School
Nov. 13 End of 1st Trimester
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 9, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: mcerri@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Conference Week is officially over. Thanks for helping to make it a
productive and positive experience. Our long anticipated MSI trip is next
week! Parent chaperones and students must be in Room 505 by 5:40 a.m. Please
pack your child a “garbage free” lunch, to help the environment, a snack, and
some bottled water. I would also recommend that everyone have sunglasses and
wear sun block, as we will be spending most of the day outside in the
elements. Students will be working hard and will more than likely get a little
dirty and wet. Be prepared! (See handout in Parent Folder for more information.)
How Can You Help?
E-Scrip
I know parents are always looking for ways they can help out Bollinger. Well,
I have a way that only takes 5 minutes of your time and will cost you NOTHING!
E-Scrip. This program is so easy to sign up for and brings in thousands of
dollars for our school every year. Simply go to www.escrip.com (or use the
link that’s on our class web site), click on “Sign-Up – It’s Free!” follow the
6 easy steps to register your Safeway Club Card, credit cards, Macy’s card,
and other participating merchants. That’s it. Then, every time you use those
cards, up to 4% of your purchase will go directly to Bollinger Canyon School.
Once you sign up, the system automatically renews your membership each year,
EXCEPT for Safeway. Unfortunately, Safeway requires that you renew your
membership each year. I just signed up myself and would be happy to help
anyone who is interested, but having difficulty with the process. Students
with a participating family will earn Cerri Bucks. If you are already signed
up, please let me know. If you sign up, please let me know.
Primo’s Run For Education is here!
If you’re registered and would like to walk with Bollinger Canyon staff,
including myself, please meet us at the Iron Horse marquee between 8:00 – 8:15
a.m. on Sunday, October 11. I hope to see you there!
Around the Classroom:
Book Fair: I hope you had some time to stop by the Book Fair that was held in
our library this week. Thank you to those of you who purchased books for our
class. I can’t wait to get them into our class library!
Reading: We finished a comprehension packet based on Earthquake Terror.
Students continue to meet in their Book Club groups. Please check the web site
so you are aware of when your child has projects due. When these scored
assignments are in your child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and return
them the following Monday.
Math: Flying Spaghetti began Chapter 4, which focused on division. Math of
Potter Twilight began Chapter 5, which focused on expressions.
Science: Students were able to play a few of the MSI board games that were
made last week. They will continue playing these games next week. This, along
with the three packets we read in class, will be good review / practice for
the MSI Comprehension Test on Wednesday, October 14 and the MSI Vocabulary
Test on Thursday, October 15. We finished Chapter 5: Earth’s Weather. This
week we read and discussed lesson 3: Oceans and Air Temperature, which focused
on how oceans affect the temperature on land, ocean currents, and the cause of
El Niño. We also completed lesson 4: Severe Weather, which focused on
thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, and monsoons, and lesson 5: Predicting
the Weather, which focused on what we can learn from weather fronts and high
and low pressure systems, and how data is collected.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 112-125, and all Quick Check questions. This assignment is due Thursday,
October 15. Class time was given for students to begin this homework.
Spelling: Students used last week’s test to study for their final States /
Capitals Test. Remember, I will take their best score.
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 11 Primo’s Run
Oct. 14 MSI Comprehension Quiz
Oct. 15 MSI Vocabulary Quiz
Oct. 16 MSI Field Trip – meet in Room 505 no later than 5:45 a.m.
Kids Night Out
Box Tops collection for 1st Trimester ends today!
Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day - No School
Nov. 13 End of 1st Trimester
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 1, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: mcerri@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Believe it or not, conferences begin tomorrow and will continue into next
week. Conferences are scheduled back to back, so please be prompt. In order
to respect everyone’s time, I will be using a timer. (ie. If you are 5
minutes late, your conference will be shortened by 5 minutes.) Remember,
students are required to attend their conference!
NEW DISTRICT POLICIES
In case you missed the email sent out Tuesday, there are some new district
policies that are important for you to be aware of. If you have any questions
let me know.
1) Anyone who comes onto campus beyond drop off and pick-up (ie. field trips,
class parties, library, helping in class, etc. ) MUST have a 2009-2010
Volunteer Clearance Form on file in the office. To receive this form you must
first go to the school website (link on our class web page) and watch a short
video. You will then be prompted to print out the form. This form, along with
a copy of your picture ID, MUST be on file in the office before you come onto
campus.
2) Any adult attending a field trip must fill out an Adult Chaperone Volunteer
Participation in Voluntary Activity Hold Harmless and Medical Treatment
Authorization form. This form must be returned with a copy of your picture ID.
Your child will bring this form home before the field trip. FYI: You will
need to complete this form for each field trip you attend.
3) Anyone driving on a field trip must fill out the above form (#2) AND
complete a Personal Automobile Use Permission Form. This form can be found in
the office and must be turned in with a copy of your driver’s license and
proof of insurance.
4) Student Permission Slip- Students will complete the top section in class
and then bring it home. Please make sure that you fill in each section
completely. This includes the medical insurance company name, insurance
company phone number, and the child’s medical identification number.
Allergy Reminder
I know we talked about this during Back-to-School Night, but I wanted to send
out a friendly reminder. If you decide to bring in a treat to celebrate your
child’s birthday, please remember that we have a student in our class who is
allergic to peanuts. Thanks.
How Can You Help?
E-Scrip
I know parents are always looking for ways they can help out Bollinger. Well,
I have a way that only takes 5 minutes of your time and will cost you NOTHING!
E-Scrip. This program is so easy to sign up for and brings in thousands of
dollars for our school every year. Simply go to www.escrip.com (or use the
link that’s on our class web site), click on “Sign-Up – It’s Free!”, follow
the 6 easy steps to register your Safeway Club Card, credit cards, Macy’s
card, and other participating merchants. That’s it. Then, every time you use
those cards, up to 4% of your purchase will go directly to Bollinger Canyon
School. Once you sign up, the system automatically renews your membership
each year, EXCEPT for Safeway. Unfortunately, Safeway requires that you renew
your membership each year. I just signed up myself and would be happy to help
anyone who is interested, but having difficulty with the process. Students
with a participating family will earn Cerri Bucks. If you are already signed
up, please let me know. If you sign up, please let me know.
Primo’s Run For Education
Another great way that your entire family can support our school, have fun
together, and get some fresh air and exercise all at the same time is the
annual Primo’s Run for Education, which is on Sunday, October 11. All of the
funds raised from this event go directly back to our classrooms and students
through a grant program in the form of books and materials supporting ELA,
math, science and the arts. The San Ramon Education Foundation awarded over
$100,000 in grants last year. In addition, all schools can earn cash
incentives for their PTA just by getting participants and volunteers at the
race. Be sure to designate Bollinger Canyon as your school when you register
or sign-up to volunteer. Our class goal is to have at least 70% of our class
participate. (So we need at least 20 students to register! So far we only
have 7!) The class with the highest participation percentage will receive a
pizza party from Ms. Wells. Students who participate will earn $mith Bucks.
To register, go to www.primosrun.com or check out the link on our class web site.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: We read and discussed Earthquake Terror, a short story in our reading
anthology book. We began a comprehension packet based on this story. Students
continue to meet in their Book Club groups. Please check the web site so you
are aware of when your child has projects due. When these scored assignments
are in your child’s Parent Folder, please review, sign, and return them the
following Monday.
Math: Flying Spaghetti finished up Chapter 3 on multiplication. Math of Potter
Twilight finished Chapter 4. Both groups completed their chapter test. All
students have been asked to correct any missed problems before you review,
sign, and return this on Monday.
Social Studies: We continued to read about the Constitution.
Science: The Chapter 4 Test was sent home this week (Tuesday). If you haven’t
reviewed, signed, and sent this in with your child, please do so. All
assessments are kept in your child’s portfolio and are vital when I am filling
out report cards. Students got into mixed groups with Mrs. Austin’s class and
created MSI board games to review for vocabulary and facts in preparation for
our field trip. We had some time today to play the games, but more time will
be given next week. We began Chapter 5: Earth’s Weather. This week we read
and discussed lesson 1: Earth’s Atmosphere, which focused on what air pressure
is, how it can change, and how a barometer works. We also completed lesson 2:
Air Currents and Wind, which focused on why temperatures differ around the
world, how land and water temperature affect air pressure, and what global
winds are.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 102-111, and all Quick Check questions. This assignment is due Thursday,
October 8. Class time was given for students to begin this homework.
Spelling: Students were given their final region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and a test was given today. Next week they will
complete the same test (all 50 states) and will record their best score.
2nd Grade Reading Buddies: We met our reading buddies from Mrs. Cox’s class.
We read the Book of the Month, How Do Dinosaurs Go to School?
2nd Step: We had our fist lesson in this social skills program. Students
discussed ways to tell how someone else if feeling based on their facial
expression and their body language. You will find a parent letter explaining
this program in your Parent Folder.
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 2 Teacher Work Day- No school for students, but I will use this day for
conferences!
Great American Gift Wrap fundraiser ends- Orders due by today!
Oct. 5 – Conference Week- Students dismissed at 12:00
Oct. 9
Oct. 8 New Family Social in the MPR 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Oct. 11 Primo’s Run
Oct. 16 MSI Field Trip – meet in Room 505 no later than 5:45 a.m.
Kids Night Out (more info to follow)
Box Tops collection for 1st Trimester ends today!
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 25, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: mcerri@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
I’m happy to report that we’ve had a much better week and students are
back in their table groups.
As you know, Friday, October 2 is a Teacher Work Day and students do not
have school. I will use this day to begin my conferences. They are scheduled
back to back, so please be prompt. In order to respect everyone’s time, I
will be using a timer. (ie. If you are 5 minutes late, your conference will
be shortened by 5 minutes.) Remember, students are required to attend their
conference!
Allergy Reminder
I know we talked about this during Back-to-School Night, but I wanted to send
out a friendly reminder. If you decide to bring in a treat to celebrate your
child’s birthday, please remember that we have a student in our class who is
allergic to peanuts. Thanks.
How Can You Help?
E-Scrip
I know parents are always looking for ways they can help out Bollinger. Well,
I have a way that only takes 5 minutes of your time and will cost you NOTHING!
E-Scrip. This program is so easy to sign up for and brings in thousands of
dollars for our school every year. Simply go to www.escrip.com (or use the
link that’s on our class web site), click on “Sign-Up – It’s Free!”, follow
the 6 easy steps to register your Safeway Club Card, credit cards, Macy’s
card, and other participating merchants. That’s it. Then, every time you use
those cards, up to 4% of your purchase will go directly to Bollinger Canyon
School. Once you sign up, the system automatically renews your membership
each year, EXCEPT for Safeway. Unfortunately, Safeway requires that you renew
your membership each year. I just signed up myself and would be happy to help
anyone who is interested, but having difficulty with the process. Students
with a participating family will earn Cerri Bucks. If you are already signed
up, please let me know. If you sign up, please let me know.
Primo’s Run For Education
Another great way that your entire family can support our school, have fun
together, and get some fresh air and exercise all at the same time is the
annual Primo’s Run for Education, which is on Sunday, October 11. All of the
funds raised from this event go directly back to our classrooms and students
through a grant program in the form of books and materials supporting ELA,
math, science and the arts. The San Ramon Education Foundation awarded over
$100,000 in grants last year. In addition, all schools can earn cash
incentives for their PTA just by getting participants and volunteers at the
race. Be sure to designate Bollinger Canyon as your school when you register
or sign-up to volunteer. Our class goal is to have at least 70% of our class
participate. (So we need at least 22 students to register! So far we only
have 5!) The class with the highest participation percentage will receive a
pizza party from Ms. Wells. Students who participate will earn $mith Bucks.
To register, go to www.primosrun.com or check out the link on our class web site.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students are now in leveled reading groups and are into their first
Book Club book. Book Club meets on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of each
week. Students are required to complete at least 5 post-its per reading goal.
Remember, nightly reading goals can be found on the web site if your child
loses their goal sheet. We have reviewed the different projects that need to
be completed when they finish each book. To help students keep track of their
projects they were given a Book Club Project Organizer. Each child also
received a description of each project. In your Parent Folder this week you
will find a sample rubric for their oral presentation. Copies of the project
descriptions can be found on the class web page.
Writing: We completed the District Fall Write, which was a Response to
Literature. We will discuss your child’s score during our upcoming conference.
Math: Some students are working on multiplying multi-digit numbers, while
other students are working on division problems with 2-digit divisors.
Social Studies: We continued to read about the Constitution. This week we
finished discussing the Bill of Rights and moved onto the other amendments.
Science: We finished our MSI Packet and began reviewing vocabulary terms.
Students completed a Chapter 4 Study Guide to prepare them for the Chapter 4
Test, which was given today.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 98 - 101, and all Quick Check questions. This assignment is due
Thursday, October 1. Class time was given for students to begin this homework.
Spelling: Students were given their fourth region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and a test was given today.
Homework Buddies: Students were given time this week to talk to their
classmates and find two (ore more) students who will be their homework
buddies. These students will bring home their buddies homework if they are
sick, and can be called with homework questions.
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 29 Final Drama Auditions
Oct. 2 Teacher Work Day- No school for students, but I will use this day
for conferences!
Great American Gift Wrap fundraiser ends- Orders due by today!
Oct. 5 – Conference Week- Students dismissed at 12:00
Oct. 9
Oct. 8 New Family Social in the MPR 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Oct. 11 Primo’s Run
Oct. 16 MSI Field Trip – meet in Room 505 no later than 5:45 a.m.
Kids Night Out (more info to follow)
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 18, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: mcerri@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
We’ve had a slightly tough week. While it is not all students, there are
many who are having a hard time working independently without talking to their
neighbors. After several warnings, I have had to rearrange our table groups
and put students into rows. While this takes away our class meeting / STAR
space and makes Book Club more difficult since there is no obvious place to
meet on the carpet, I am hoping that students will be more productive. If
students are able to pull it together I will happily put students back into
groups. Please talk with your child about the importance of staying on task,
getting their work down, and respecting the teacher. Thanks.
How Can You Help?
E-Scrip
I know parents are always looking for ways they can help out Bollinger. Well,
I have a way that only takes 5 minutes of your time and will cost you NOTHING!
E-Scrip. This program is so easy to sign up for and brings in thousands of
dollars for our school every year. Simply go to www.escrip.com (or use the
link that’s on our class web site), click on “Sign-Up – It’s Free!”, follow
the 6 easy steps to register your Safeway Club Card, credit cards, Macy’s
card, and other participating merchants. That’s it. Then, every time you use
those cards, up to 4% of your purchase will go directly to Bollinger Canyon
School. Once you sign up, the system automatically renews your membership
each year, EXCEPT for Safeway. Unfortunately, Safeway requires that you renew
your membership each year. I just signed up myself and would be happy to help
anyone who is interested, but having difficulty with the process. Students
with a participating family will earn Cerri Bucks. If you are already signed
up, please let me know. If you sign up, please let me know.
Primo’s Run For Education
Another great way that your entire family can support our school, have fun
together, and get some fresh air and exercise all at the same time is the
annual Primo’s Run for Education, which is on Sunday, October 11. All of the
funds raised from this event go directly back to our classrooms and students
through a grant program in the form of books and materials supporting ELA,
math, science and the arts. The San Ramon Education Foundation awarded over
$100,000 in grants last year. In addition, all schools can earn cash
incentives for their PTA just by getting participants and volunteers at the
race. Be sure to designate Bollinger Canyon as your school when you register
or sign-up to volunteer. Our class goal is to have at least 70% of our class
participate. (So we need at least 22 students to register! So far we only
have 2!) The class with the highest participation percentage will receive a
pizza party from Ms. Wells. Students who participate will earn $mith Bucks.
To register, go to www.primosrun.com or check out the link on our class web site.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students finished Bridge to Terabithia. FYI- On Monday students will
be put into their leveled reading groups, create a Book Club name, select
their book, come-up with their reading goals, which will be posted on our
class website, and begin reading their book.
Writing: Using their post-its from their nightly reading and Reader’s Workshop
Journal, students finished their first Response to Literature – character
analysis. You will find this scored assignment in your Parent Folder. You
will also find a scored Author’s Message and Text-to-Text Response that were
completed this week. Please review, sign, and return these writing
assignments on Monday. (FYI- Students receive their scores based on whether
they supported their statement by using the text. Students are not marked
down for conventions on their Response to Literature unless the errors make it
hard / impossible to understand what they are trying to say. Of course,
students should always edit their writing and turn in their best work.)
Math: Both groups completed a chapter review and took their chapter test this
week. You will find this assessment in your Parent Folder. Please review,
sign, and return this on Monday. Note: Students have corrected any incorrect
problems. Some students are now reviewing the properties of multiplication
while other students are working on finding patterns to solve division problems.
Social Studies: We continued to read about the Constitution. This week we
discussed Articles 2 – 7 and began learning about the Bill of Rights.
Science: In preparation for our field trip to MSI, students continued reading
about the San Francisco Estuary Ecosystem. This week students completed the
Chapter 4 Review in preparation for the Chapter 4 Test on Friday, September 25.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 94 and 95, which is a vocabulary review. This assignment is due
Thursday, September 25. Class time was given for students to begin this homework.
Spelling: Students were given their third region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and a test was given today.
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 18 Great American Gift Wrap fundraiser begins
(see envelope in Parent Folder)
Sept. 21 Drama Auditions
Sept. 25 Science Chapter 4 Test
Sept. 29 Final Drama Auctions
Oct. 2 Great American Gift Wrap fundraiser ends- Orders due by today!
Oct. 8 New Family Social in the MPR 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Oct. 11 Primo’s Run (more info to follow)
Oct. 16 MSI Field Trip – meet in Room 505 no later than 5:45 a.m.
Kids Night Out (more info to follow)
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 11, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: mcerri@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
In case you missed the Newsflash sent out on Wednesday, the following
parents will be chaperoning on our trip to MSI on Friday, October 16: Mrs. Law
Mrs. Narvaza, Mrs. Ashley, Mr. Rodrigue, Mr. Kan, Mrs. Chiao, Mrs. Stanchina.
More detailed information will follow.
I know it’s hard to believe, but October Conferences are fast approaching.
Sign-up sheets were sent out this week. If you have already returned it,
thank you! If you have not returned one yet, please take a look at the
up-dated sheet, and select a time that will work for you. Confirmation of your
day and time will be sent home on Monday.
How Can You Help?
E-Scrip
I know parents are always looking for ways they can help out Bollinger. Well,
I have a way that only takes 5 minutes of your time and will cost you NOTHING!
E-Scrip. This program is so easy to sign up for and brings in thousands of
dollars for our school every year. Simply go to www.escrip.com (or use the
link that’s on our class web site), click on “Sign-Up – It’s Free!”, follow
the 6 easy steps to register your Safeway Club Card, credit cards, Macy’s
card, and other participating merchants. That’s it. Then, every time you use
those cards, up to 4% of your purchase will go directly to Bollinger Canyon
School. Once you sign up, the system automatically renews your membership
each year, EXCEPT for Safeway. Unfortunately, Safeway requires that you renew
your membership each year. I just signed up myself and would be happy to help
anyone who is interested, but having difficulty with the process. Students
with a participating family will earn Cerri Bucks. If you are already signed
up, please let me know. If you sign up, please let me know.
Primo’s Run For Education
Another great way that your entire family can support our school, have fun
together, and get some fresh air and exercise all at the same time is the
annual Primo’s Run for Education, which is on Sunday, October 11. All of the
funds raised from this event go directly back to our classrooms and students
through a grant program in the form of books and materials supporting ELA,
math, science and the arts. The San Ramon Education Foundation awarded over
$100,000 in grants last year. In addition, all schools can earn cash
incentives for their PTA just by getting participants and volunteers at the
race. Be sure to designate Bollinger Canyon as your school when you register
or sign-up to volunteer. Our class goal is to have at least 70% of our class
participate. (So we need at least 22 students to register!) The class with
the highest participation percentage will receive a pizza party from Ms.
Wells. Students who participate will earn $mith Bucks. To register, go to
www.primosrun.com or check out the link on our class web site.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in their groups to discuss Bridge to
Terabithia.
Math: Students continue to work in their two groups: Flying Spaghetti and the
Math of Potter Twilight. One group reviewed how to estimate decimals and how
to find the sum and difference of decimals while the other group worked on
multiplying 3 digit numbers by multiple digit numbers and learned how to use
exponents.
Social Studies: We continued to read about the Constitution and the reasons it
was created. We also learned what Congress can and cannot do, as stated in
Article 1 of the Constitution.
Science: In preparation for our field trip to MSI, students continue reading
about the San Francisco Estuary Ecosystem. We also continued Chapter 4:
Earth’s Water. This week students read and discussed Lesson 2: The Water
Cycle, which focused on what makes water change form, how clouds form, and the
different types of precipitation. We also read and discussed Lesson 3:
Freshwater Resources, which focused on where the Earth’s usable fresh water is
found, what watershed is, and some causes of water pollution, and Lesson 4:
California’s Water Supply, which focused on where California gets its fresh
water, and the ways we can save water. Having this reading done will help
students complete their Science Lab homework.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 84-93, along with all Quick Check questions. This assignment is due
Thursday, September 17. Class time was given for students to begin this homework.
Spelling: Students were given their second region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and a test was given today.
Class Election: Running for an office, giving a speech, and waiting to hear
the results can be a nerve-racking experience, however this year I had record
breaking numbers of students running for office. In the Vice-President and
Secretary positions, the elected student only won by 1 vote! In the office of
Treasurer we had a tie, and had to do a second vote to determine who would
hold the office. It was crazy! I want to acknowledge the following students
who ran for office this trimester: Katie Ashley, Marissa Bernie, Kyle Mays,
Quinn Williams, Kristen Gao, Ellen Lyons, Christian Ng, Fariba Hossain, Kyle
Glazzy, Julie Szoke, Sam Rodrigue, Matthew Lau, Lexi Kozlowski, Paige Kan,
Priscilla Chau, and Kelsie Abadir. WOW!! That being said, we know that only
one person can hold each office, and our 1st Trimester Officers are:
President- Miss Marissa Bernie, Vice-President- Miss Fariba Hossain
Secretary- Miss Kristen Gao, Treasurer- Miss Paige Kan. Congratulations to our
newly elected officers, and to all our candidates!!
Library Helpers: If you signed up to help in the library this year, thank you!
I know Mrs. Ashley sent out a schedule this week, but I have also added a link
to our class website that has our schedule. If you signed up, please make sure
you know which days you are scheduled to come in. Thanks again!
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 15 School-wide Fall pictures (see flyers in Parent Folder)
Oct. 11 Primo’s Run (more info to follow)
Oct. 16 MSI Field Trip – meet in Room no later than 5:45 a.m.
Kids Night Out (more info to follow)
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 4, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: mcerri@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
It was great seeing so many of you at Back-To-School Night. Thanks for
your support. I know it was a lot of information for new parents. Don’t
hesitate to ask questions! Please make note of my voice mail number, e-mail
address, and our class web site, which are listed above. Newsletters, along
with teacher generated notices, Book Club goals, sample post-its, sample
Reader’s Workshop Journaling, field trip information, homework, upcoming
events, links to helpful web sites, and a place to see the answers of
“frequently asked questions” are just some of the items that are posted on the
web site weekly. Students will be responsible for inputting some of the data.
If you haven’t had time to log on and bookmark this web site, please do!
MSI Field Trip
Our first field trip is on Friday, October 16. Students and chaperones must
be in Room 505 by 5:40 a.m. We will be traveling, by bus, to the Marine
Science Institute’s vessel, which sails out of Redwood City. We should return
back to campus by 2:00 and students will stay at school until regular
dismissal at 2:55. Parents may sign their child out through the office when
we return from MSI. The following parents signed up to chaperone at
Back-to-School Night: Mrs. Law, Mrs. Narvaza, Mrs. Bernie, Mrs. Ashley, Mrs.
Ron, Mr. Rodrigue, Mrs. Glazzy, Mr. Kan, and Mrs. Chiao. If you have not
signed up, but would like to attend, please let me know. (If you do not
receive a hard copy of this newsletter, simply send me an e-mail with the
information.) REMEMBER: We can only take 8 adults with us. I will pull names
of interested parents from a hat on the morning on Wednesday, September 9. I
will notify everyone later that day as to who was “selected”.
5th Grade Parent Informational Meeting
If you are interested in getting information about or helping with 5th grade
activities (US Pizzas, Candy Trains, Holiday Breakfast, Colonial Afternoon,
Promotion, etc.) please attend the meeting on Thursday, September 10. We will
meet in Room 603 at 3:10. I hope to see you there!
Newspapers Needed
If you signed up to donate your newspaper, or if you are able to donate your
newspaper, please have your child bring them in each day next week. We will
have our first Current Event assigned on Monday. Having current, local
newspapers in class will be greatly appreciated by students who don’t have
access to these at home.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: As a class, we reviewed the different times in which students use
Post-Its during Book Club (Questions, a WOW Moment, Character Trait, Setting,
Character Feeling, Problem / Solution, Prediction / Answer). Students also
learned / reviewed how to put these Post-Its into their Reader’s Workshop
Journal. In mixed ability groups, students began their first core book, Bridge
to Terabithia. For this book, Book Club groups will meet on Mondays,
Wednesdays, and Fridays to discuss their post-its before expanding on them in
their Reader’s Workshop Journals. You can find the reading goals on our class
web page. For each of these meetings, students will be responsible for
reading up to, but not going beyond, the reading goal. In order for the Book
Club meetings to run smoothly and to make sure all students participate, it is
vital that all members do their part, read the designated pages and have
Post-Its (a minimum of 5). The first time a student is not prepared for Book
Club, they will be fined $50 Cerri Bucks, and a letter will be sent home for
you to sign. The second offense will cost $100 Cerri Bucks and another
letter will be sent home for you to sign. On the third offense, the student
will be fined $150 Cerri Bucks and will no longer be able to participate in
the Book Club while students are reading that book. When they begin their
next Book Club book, that student will start with a clean slate. After our
first core book is finished, students will be in leveled groups, select their
books, decide on their reading goals, and meet Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
of each week. To help keep you informed, these goals will be posted on the web
site under “Book Club”.
Math: Students were tested into groups, which began on Wednesday. These groups
are based on what students need to work on, and can change as students’ needs
change. I work with each group during each math period. While a group is
waiting for my instruction, they will work on Tile Cards or another math
related activity. After I have taught or reviewed the concept, students will
do practice problems out of their textbook. Before the end of the math
period, all work will be corrected, and questions answered. Homework is
assigned which reviews the concepts taught in class. We completed our first
week of Board Math. This is an activity that is completed orally as a class
and reviews 5th Grade STAR Released questions.
Social Studies: Working in table groups, students dissected the Constitution
of the United States’ Preamble, putting it into their own words. We began
reading about the Constitution and the reasons it was created.
Science: In preparation for our field trip to MSI, students began reading
about the San Francisco Estuary Ecosystem.
Science Lab Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet
pages 74 and 83, along with all Quick Check questions. This assignment is due
next Thursday, September 10. Class time was given for students to begin this
homework.
Spelling: Students were given their first region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and a test was given today. Students will not only
be held accountable for spelling these words correctly, but they will also
need to know where each state is located in that region. Each week the tests
will include previously used states and capitols. (Tests will be cumulative).
Drama: Students meet with Mrs. Stansell this week and began learning the songs
to this year’s play, “The American Revolution”. Our dress rehearsal days are
Thursday, April 15 and Tuesday, April 20. We will have two performances on the
afternoon of Friday, April 23 and one on that evening. Please mark your
calendars now to insure that your child is present those days!
Class Constitution: Remember, students must memorize our Class Constitution by
Tuesday, September 8. I will videotape each child reciting the constitution,
and then splice them all together.
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 7 NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
Sept. 10 5th Grade Informational Parent Meeting 3:10 in Room 603
Sept. 15 School-wide Fall pictures
Oct. 11 Primo’s Run (more info to follow)
Oct. 16 Kids Night Out (more info to follow)
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
August 28, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
What a wonderful week we have had! I look forward to seeing many familiar
faces and meeting the new parents next week at Back-to-School Night,
Wednesday, September 2 at 6:00 in Room 505. If have not already added your
email address to our class web page, please do so. This will help ensure that
you are aware of important information throughout the school year.
Please remember to sign and return the bottom portion of this letter with
the Parent Folder on Monday, August 31.
Around the Classroom:
* Students used teamwork and problem solving skills to put together a class
puzzle / banner.
* Students learned about the class procedures.
* Students participated in activities to help them get to know their classmates.
* Students received information about class elections.
* Working together, students created a Class Constitution containing the
classroom rules. This is posted in the class and will be recited every day
after the Pledge of Allegiance. (FYI- Students need to have it memorized by
Tuesday, September 8.)
* Students made their first class book, writing about what they know best,
themselves.
* Students began taking assessments so I can see where they are. (Your child
brought home their first Timed Math Facts Test this week. If you haven’t
already done so, please review, sign, and return this on Monday.)
Parent Newsletter
In order to save paper, you can choose to view the Parent Newsletter on the
class web page and NOT receive a hard copy. Please let me know what your
preference is by filling out the section at the end of this week’s newsletter.
5th Grade Parent Informational Meeting
If you are interested in getting information about or helping with 5th grade
activities (US Pizzas, Candy Trains, Holiday Breakfast, Colonial Afternoon,
Promotion, etc.) please attend the meeting on Thursday, September 10. We will
meet in Room 603 at 3:10. I hope you see you there!
Morning Drop-Off
The earliest students are to be on campus is 8:15 a.m.
(Before this time there is NO supervision!)
At 8:15 they are to walk directly to the playground using the fire lane
(in between the MPR and Kindergarten playground).
STUDENTS ARE NOT TO WALK TO THEIR CLASSROOM FIRST!
Students and/or parents are NOT to hang out in the quads.
When the 8:25 a.m. bell rings students are to line up at their designated spot.
Dates to Remember:
Aug. 31 Intent to Run for Office must be given to Mrs. Smith by today!
Sept. 2 Back-To-School Night 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505
Sept. 4 Speeches / Class Elections held!
Sept. 7 NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
Sept. 10 5th Grade Informational Parent Meeting 3:10 in Room 603
_____ I would like to receive a hard copy of the Weekly Parent Newsletter.
_____ I do NOT need to receive a hard copy of the Weekly Parent Newsletter
as I will read it on the class website.
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
Parent Newsletter
August 25, 2009
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
Web Site http://www.teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/
Dear Parents,
Welcome to Fifth Grade! I’m looking forward to another great year with
many of you. We’re also excited to welcome some new parents and children to
our class. I look forward to seeing you (NO CHILDREN ALLOWED) at Back to
School Night on Wednesday, September 2 from 6:00 pm – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505.
The following pages will provide you with information about class rules, my
discipline policy, and homework expectations. Although I have gone over these
items in class, please read them over again with your child.
The parent-student-teacher dynamic must include open lines of communication in
order to foster the best educational experience for your child. In an effort
to keep you informed, I will send home a Weekly Homework Progress Report and a
newsletter on Fridays in your Parent Folder. I have also created a class web
site to help keep you better informed. Students will be updating the site
daily, so make sure to bookmark it on your computer. After checking the web
site, feel free to contact me anytime to discuss questions or concerns you may
have during the year, either via email or voice mail.
In this Parent Folder I have included the following:
1. Information on our upcoming election
2. Class Fines (for your information)
3. My behavior/discipline/homework policy
4. A student information sheet – please fill out NEATLY and return to me as
soon as possible
Thank you for your support and I look forward to seeing you in the following
weeks!
Sincerely,
Maria Smith