Literacy: Students wrapped up using the National Geographic Theme Set leveled texts this week. They will take the final comprehension assessment this afternoon. For the remaining part of the week and into early next week, students will review non-fiction craft and structure. Early next week they'll take a final (short) assessment over the structure of non-fiction texts as well as the text features that help readers use non-fictions texts.
During writing, we'll continue to work on non-fiction writing. Each student will have composed a 4-5 chapter, non-fiction book that includes an "All About" section, a more focused section, a short historical fiction story, and an essay. Students will publish their first mini-books. Then, they'll choose a new topic for the next book they'll be writing.
Science: This week we used stream tables to explore how erosion and deposition create and destroy landforms. Students tested several variables including the height of the slope (hills/mountains) and amount of water flowing (flooding). Please ask them to explain in more detail about what they learned from the stream tables and how the stream tables work. Today we'll begin studying fossils. Students will take the final iCheck (assessment) this week. They may use their notes and their text books.
Math: Today students took the Unit 5 assessment. We'll begin unit 6 next week. Unit 6 will focus on division strategies as well as adding and subtracting angle measurements. Students learn a strategy for dividing called, "Partial Quotients." Click on the link to familiarize yourself with the strategy if you'd like. You can also find many helpful videos on YouTube. Please make sure your child is able to use the strategy in addition to the "long division" strategy if you've already taught them the "long division" strategy. By the end of the unit, they should be able to use the "Partial Quotients" strategy fluently.
IAR Testing: Third grade will not be taking the IAR (required state test) until after spring break. The test is computer-based this year, and your child will be expected to type a short response. I would highly recommend practicing typing at home. There are many free typing programs available on-line.
Important Dates:
3/19 Field Trip- Great Works "Chicago" play
3/19 25 books due for the 40BC
3/19 Literacy Night at Skinner North 3:45-5:15
3/28 Starry Night Fundraising Event
4/2 Spring Picture Day
4/6-4/10 Spring Break (no school for students)
