Mrs. O'Rourke's Panther Press
From December for Jan 4th
Back to School - Thursday
I'm excited to see the students when they return on Thursday, Jan 4th. Let's make this 2nd semester ROCK!
Gratitude
I was absolutely overwhelmed with gratitude from the lovely notes and gifts that students and families shared with me before break. You folks know how to make a teacher feel loved, that's for sure!! Personal thank you cards will be in your child's next Tuesday folder. Thank you, most importantly, for your continued support at home. I am very blessed to be a part of your child's education, and I am looking forward to a superb 2nd semester!!
It's what you've been waiting for!
The students did such an excellent job showing their understanding of plot structure and dramatic writing. Don't miss out on seeing their outstanding plays. Click on the link below based on the Humanities block that your child is in (your child can tell you which block he/she is in). Enjoy!!
Odyssey Plays - Block 1
Click here to see the student written plays of the adventures of Odysseus!
Odyssey Plays - Block 2
Click here to see the student written plays of the adventures of Odysseus!
On going Humanitarianism Projects
Roboforce Water Saving Plan
Our classmate, Yash, is doing a lego robotics project. Their team, Roboforce, is working on a “ Hydro Dynamic project”. They are learning the ways to save and recycle water and generate awareness among the society. See their flyer below, and click on the link provided to check your water sense!
Link below to check your "water sense"
The importance of independent reading
Your child should have read about 12 books by the end of December. Please check in with him or her.
Independent reading of self-selected text is, statistically, the most effective way for a person's reading abilities to grow and vocabulary to increase. Students have a 25 book reading requirement for the year. By now, they should have completed at least 6 books. Please check in with your child to ensure that he/she is reading at home at least 15-20 minutes a day from a book that he/she enjoys. If kids are in a "reading rut" and can't find a book they like, they know that they can come see me for suggestions. I always have plenty of suggestions, and our classroom library is pretty extensive!! I know the students have other obligations, but establishing a reading routine at home will help your child in oh so many ways!! Happy reading!
Year-Long Humanitarian Projects
Ms. Hill and Mrs. O'Rourke introduced our Year-Long Humanitarian Projects and requirements to the students. Detailed information can be found on Canvas in the Humanitarian Projects Module, but here are the basics:
• This year students will have the opportunity to show 3 different humanitarian acts within the community.
• Each project will be documented with a picture of the student performing the act/event and a short paragraph. These will be displayed all year to celebrate our acts of good will.
• Between Mrs. O'Rourke's and Ms. Hill’s class, it is our goal to perform 300 acts within our community.
• We will also be brainstorming different project ideas within our school and school community.
Upcoming Assessments and Project Due Dates
This section will contain upcoming assessments so that parents can help students stay on top of their studying.
Next Few Weeks:
Wednesday 1/10 -Independent Reading Plot Projects
Friday 1/19 - Vocabulary Assessment & Grammar Review
Canvas
Canvas is the HSE district's new online learning management system. It has replaced Blackboard. Our classes and our students are all using Canvas now. Family access is slated to be available in October. More news to come!
Mrs. O'Rourke
Email: aorourke@hse.k12.in.us
Location: 12278 N. Cyntheanne Rd., Fishers, IN 46037
Phone: 317-594-4120
Twitter: @MrsORourkeHIJH