Busy, busy, busy!

Even though this was a short week, we still accomplished many things!  We took our math test over place value today, and we had time after the test to learn a new math game.  Next week we will be starting chapter 3 on rounding.  In reading, we have been using clues in the text to make inferences.  Also, the students are quickly becoming accomplished writers.  They have learned how to take a big idea and turn it into a story.  Also, we discussed strategies for using good leads when starting a piece of writing.  The students wrote some very interesting, attention-getting leads.

Science was especially fun this week!  We have been talking about the two types of observations: qualitative and quantitative.  Today we went outside and found small natural objects to observe.  Then, we were able to use the school's new digital microscopes to magnify their objects on the whiteboards where everyone could see.  We were very surprised how such simple objects appeared so intricate and detailed under the microscope!

Our whole school has started reading  The Seven Habits of Happy Kids, which is a kid's version of the popular book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.  The habits show kids how they can be a leader and make good choices.  Ask your child what habit they have demonstrated lately.  Here are the seven habits and what they mean:

Habit 1 – Be Proactive – Stop, think and make a good choice. Take responsibility
for your own actions and outcomes.
Habit 2 – Begin with the End in Mind – Set a goal and make a plan on how to
meet that goal. Work that plan.
Habit 3 – Put First Things First – Do the important things first. Work before play.
Habit 4 – Think Win-Win – Make a decision that will make everyone happy! Have
an attitude that I can win, and so can you.
Habit 5 – Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood – Listen with your
eyes and heart not just your ears. Understand the other person’s point of view
before sharing your own.
Habit 6 – Synergize – Work together as a team. Each person has an important role
to play.
Habit 7 – Sharpen the Saw – Take care of yourself. Make it a priority to renew
and strengthen your mind, body, heart and soul on a regular basis.