May 13, 2008

 Happenings

I apologize for no website updates for a while - this is spring which always seems to fly after Camp Magruder. Where has the year gone...

This week will be a relaxed but productive one as we are all engaged with what we've come to call our One Planet study. Each student has chosen a cultural universal such as food, clothing or education or play and also chosen a country or region to learn how that aspect of life relates to our view. Last week was a search for a topic of interest, and this week will begin the in-depth research.

In addition, we are finishing up the math unit on fractions, decimals and percents, and moving onto symmetry. In reading we've undertaken a great literature circle book Esperanza Rising, exploring both class and cultural differences. We are also beginning a last complete Writer's Workshop piece for the year.

Last, on Wednesday we will be participating in the Mt. Hood Climb Service Learning activities - we will be helping a group of upper school students restore the SPARC trail. So it is a no uniform day, but long pants and sleeves are needed. Gloves are also needed, if there are some at home.

I hope everyone is looking forward to the nice weather that is predicted!

Math - Four sheets - two on decimal multiplication and division and two on symmetry.

Spelling - A Dear Parents sheet and a Words to Learn sheet.

Grammar sheet- one required, but there will be two extra available.

Esperanza Rising - reading up to page 120, and a small set of discussion questions.

Evening Reading - minimum 20 minutes per night! Esperanza Rising counts!