Return to Fourth Grade

October 16, 2009

Dear Parents,

Thank you very much for attending Curriculum Night last Thursday.  It is beneficial to know the classroom expectations for your child.  If you have questions or concerns, please call me and leave a message or send me an email (4thgrade@stmss.org).

The class has done quite well in math rounding and estimating numbers.  They are quite capable of rounding to the nearest dime and dollar with money, also.  Even though children don’t like to estimate, we have discussed the many ways estimating numbers is a big part of everyday math.  The estimating concept is revisited often throughout the year, especially in word problems.  I have taught the kids to look for the word about.  It is the main clue for using estimating in many word problems.

The students are also learning the math properties for addition and subtraction.  Even though they have already learned the basic idea, they are not familiar with the math vocabulary that actually names the properties.  We spent one lesson this week taking notes and using the math text to help them understand the labels.  The students will get more practice using the properties next week.

Last year, the Seattle Archdiocese developed ideas called The Twelve Gardens of Stewardship to help children better understand the overall idea of stewardship.  These ideas were presented to teachers last spring at their inservice.  Throughout the year, each class at St. Mark will emphasize one of the gardens and create a bulletin board near the school office.  In September, the sixth grade explained the Garden of Decisions to the students.  They helped the children understand the importance of making good, thoughtful decisions and how their decisions influence them and the community around them. 

This month, the eighth grade is assisting us in understanding the Garden of Citizenship.  The meaning is to not only to be aware of what it means to be a citizen of the country, but how to be a true citizen of God and the world.  The fourth graders participated in a class discussion on Wednesday generating ideas about how they can demonstrate citizenship.  Look for our ideas that will be written on the huge flag in the hallway, and ask your child about the class’ meaningful ideas.

The fourth graders are quite excited to begin practicing their storybook speeches.  Please remind your child to bring the speech book to school every day.  We will practice at school in addition to the extra time your child will practice at home.

Reminders:      October 19 – Book Review Due, First Draft of Speech Introduction Due

                        October 23 – Final Draft (typed) Speech Introduction Due

Have a great weekend,

Pauline Storino