Take a Peek into Room 404
Week of February 10, 2014
Reader's Workshop
We will start STRONG in our historical fiction unit, knowing that there is background in each story we will encounter. We have to access our knowledge of history and maybe even research a little about the time period in which our books take place. Doing this will prepare us for seeing how and why events or problems happen in the story.
To get your child engaged, ask them what their historical fiction book is about and maybe even have them research a little bit. This will prepare their minds for all the complex events and emotions their character may encounter.
Writer's Workshop
I was impressed at how much the students remembered from our personal narrative unit, which seems so long ago! They remembered our graphic organizer and how to use strong language when writing.
This week we will revise and edit drafts and publish our final piece. For the revise and edit process, we will use the ARMS and CUPS acronym for remembering what to look for. It is especially important that the kids find value in this process, even though it is not the most exciting part of writing. I gave the example of revising and editing e-mails as part of my job. We discussed how if I sent out e-mails to parents, other teachers or principals, that may send the message that I am careless or cause me to lose credibility as a teacher. They easily saw how this fit to their lives as writers.
I encourage you to talk with your child about how writing impacts your daily life or career. Show them that revising and editing are important to anything you write or do. I hope this extra example will show them the importance!
Here is an example of our ARMS and CUPS strategy (Graphic made by Chrissy Rissmiller):
Important Information
- Chess and Scrabble
- No choir practice after school
Tuesday:
- Picture Day! Dress in your best and send money if you want to order one!
- Last call for book orders-please send money or order online with the online code H2GYH
Friday:
- Last day to send money for the Carnival Basketball Challenge! Help our class win by sending lose change or any amount!
- Valentine's Party: Please send your child to school with a decorated bag or box to collect cards in. Also, if they would like to bring cards for the class, they may.
- Party at 2:15 in classroom
Next Monday, February 17th is a student holiday.