Shelburne Farms and Flynn Theater

We had a great start back from vacation with two field trips!  On Monday, we went to Shelburne Farms to kick off our study of ecology and ecosystems.  We explored the pond and forest ecosystems, noticing what plants and animals make up those ecosystems.  It was a chilly and rainy day so we didn't find any frogs in the pond, but we did find plenty of insects.  In the forest, we rolled over many fallen logs to investigate what was underneath them...fungus, salamanders, spiders, and larva!  Despite the rainy weather, we had a great time and enjoyed our hands-on experience with nature! What was your child's favorite part of the field trip?  On Thursday, we ventured to the Flynn Theater to see Machine de Cirque.  This was an acrobatic show put on by five men from Quebec City.  We were amazed at their high-flying acrobats and their strength and agility. Ask your child to tell you about the show!

After all the field trips, we had to get back to work and start practicing for the SBAC tests.  These are standardized tests given to students grades 3-8.  We will be taking these online Math and English Language Arts tests on Monday and Friday next week and Monday and Wednesday the following week.  The best way to help your child be prepared for these tests is to help them get a good night's sleep and a good breakfast in the morning!  Thanks for your support!

In writing, Miss Niles' class is finishing their fairy tale adaptations with making last edits, designing covers, and adding illustrations.  Ms. Deb's class finished and had a great publishing party! Thanks to Ms. Deb's families for coming in to celebrate these fantastic adaptations.  Miss Niles' class will be having a publishing party next week...more information to come soon!

In math, we are coming to the end of our Unit 7 (Fractions and Multiplication) study.  This week we worked more with comparing fractions and finding equivalent fractions with a game called Racing Fractions.  We also divided and shared pizzas (paper ones!) to demonstrate our knowledge of fractions.

Have a great weekend!