We are quickly adjusting to the new routines in third grade! The students are doing a fine job getting planners signed nightly. I appreciate you taking the time to do this. It establishes routines and responsibility for your child and allows us the quick opportunity to communicate on a daily basis as needed. We started our health class this week! We are fortunate to have Mr. Harnish visit every Wednesday for the next three months to teach the health curriculum. We have completed a unit on the skeletal system. The students are just finishing a unit on the Muscular system. There was a review test on: Tuesday, November 9th. The next unit will focus on emotional health and self esteem. Please note, if your child is having a difficult time explaining homework to you. It is probably due to not writing the complete assignment that is on the board or that they are not fully attending when we review it in the afternoon. There is always an opportunity to ask for clarification at that time. Please use this as an opportunity to reinforce the importance of listening and asking questions! Math Message: We introduced a lesson on estimation. This is a review from last year however, it can be a difficult concept to grasp. We have two forms of estimation. Front End Estimation: This is less accurate but easier to manage. This is simply looking at the front end or largest place value in a particular number and using that as your gauge. Example: 345 would become 300. Rounding: This is a more sophisticated form of estimation and more accurate. Place value is taken into account when the estimate is derived. Both forms are acceptable at this point. The math program refers to estimation as a "Ballpark Estimate". Your child can use whatever they are most comfortable with unless specified. Exciting New Event: Watch for a note coming home regarding student produced podcasts! We will be starting a special project that will enable the children to share their technology skills, writing skills and public speaking skills all while sharing some of what they do in a week in our third grade classroom! We know that it is often difficult to really know what your child does during their day, much less know what they are learning. Soon we will be producing weekly podcasts that highlight some of the learning that is taking place each week at school. Please check this sight on a weekly basis to hear your children share their news!!