11/28/11- 12/2/11

Math Homework:
11/28- Lesson 46
11/29- Lesson 47
11/30- Lesson 48
12/1- Lesson 49
12/2- Lesson 50

Language Arts:
This week, we are studying notetaking/summarizing, sequencing (in class), main idea, nouns, singular/plural nouns, etc. in class. Students will have one Language Arts worksheet for homework each night this week over the skill taught in class.  Language Arts, Unit 2 will be completed before Christmas Break due to having already been taught writing a persuasive essay using the Writing Process (AZ State Standards- 5th Grade Writing) when we read the book "Hoot."  Students have written many personal narratives using the Writing Process, (introduced in Unit 1) throughout this school year as well.  In January, we will begin with Unit 3.  Please be assured that all Language Arts lessons will be taught in 5th Grade. 

Spelling:
This week, we are studying words that end in -es to make them plural, while also practicing spelling rules already practiced.  We will complete Lessons 31- 34 with a spelling test on Friday.  As a reminder, there are 120 spelling lessons and 180 school days.  Please be assured that all spelling lessons will be completed in 5th Grade. 

Reading:
We are reading "Hatchet", chapters 6-9 this week, while focusing on activities that reinforce the AZ State Standards for 5th Grade Reading.  Students write the main idea with supporting details for each chapter they read and on Thursday, they will complete a sequencing activity. 

*Note* Brian Robeson, the main character in "Hatchet", struggles to survive in the wilderness once his plane crashed.  Students filled out a worksheet titled "Items for Survival" in class and had to discuss 7 things they would bring if they were in Brian's situation.  There were requirements for the items, but nonetheless, one group's idea led us to discuss the brave men and women who serve in our military.  This led to a discussion on the brief experience that I, myself, spent in Army ROTC.  Needless to say, I thought it was worth mentioning to provide the context of the brief discussion we had.  If you have questions, please come to me with them.  As a teacher and due to my life experiences, I think it is important to honor the men and women who serve our country in the military, as well as in law enforcement.  When these teaching opportunities present themselves, it becomes a good time to reflect on current events (or events that changed history) and be humbled by the services of our U.S. military.