Dates to Remember:

Dec. 23-Jan. 3: Winter Break...No School
Jan. 4: School resumes
Jan. 5: MacKenzie River Pizza Day for Bitterroot
Jan. 6: Venture Theater Auditions for interested 4th-6th grade students
Jan. 11-22: Venture Theater rehearsals 3:15pm-5:00pm (**No rehearsal on Jan. 18 PIR)
Jan. 15: End of 2nd Quarter
Jan. 18: PIR Day...No school for students.
Jan. 22: Venture Theater productions (K-3 @ 1:00pm, 4-6 @ 2:00pm, parent performance @ 6:00pm)
Jan. 22: Report cards go home with students
Jan. 27: Skyview Trading Cards @ 8:00am-9:50am

I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Mrs. Morales

Cailey and Buddy's Winter Voki

Get a Voki now!

Get a Voki now!

Get a Voki now!

Raegan and Ramela's Winter Voki

Get a Voki now!

Darrion andAshton's Winter Voki

Get a Voki now!

Elias and Ethan's Winter Voki

Get a Voki now!

Cameron and Lucas's Winter Voki

Get a Voki now!

Abby and Katie's Winter Voki

Get a Voki now!

Class Celebration--Dec. 22

On Tuesday, December 22, we will be making candy trains. Each child will need to bring 2 full size candy bars (not king size). Snickers, Milky Ways, and Three Muskateers work best. Everyone will also need to cover an 18 by 18 in. piece of cardboard with foil to carry the train. If you would be able to donate frosting, rope licorice, pinwheel candies (red/white or green/white mints), stick pretzels, and small candy to help decorate the trains, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for your help.
Also on this date, we will be exchanging presents. Each child is to make a gift or find a present without spending more than $1. We'll have a White Elephant gift exchange. To make this fun, it's important to have a variety of presents but nothing that might hurt someone's feelings if they receive it. Please wrap the present and bring it to school by Tuesday, Dec. 22, in the morning. Thank you for helping make this a fun day for us!
Mrs. Morales

Student Council Speeches Were Today

The 6th graders who gave Student Council speeches today were fantastic! Our new officers are Kylie, Ethan, and Kodi. I was so impressed with the speeches this year! We will announce what committee the rest of the students will be a part of on Tuesday.

Remember, midterms are coming home today. If you're not happy with your grade, there is still time to get it up! Get your missing work in before the winter holiday, and then you won't have to worry about it on your days off.

Tomorrow all 6th graders are going on a field trip to the Moss Mansion. It does cost $1.00 to get in. I must have your permission slip and money in order for you to go.

Have a great evening. Stay warm!

Amusement Park Ride Video

Art Walk

We invite you to the 6th Grade Art Exhibit this Friday night(December 4th) in conjunction with the Billings Art Walk. The exhibit is located in the Western Heritage Center and the theme this year is Eastern Montana Landscapes. Our elementary art staff will be on hand to answer any questions as well as providing cookies and punch for visitors. The hours for the Art Walk are 5:00-9:00 PM. We hope you can attend.

Thanks!

Rob Wells
Music/Art Supervisor
Billings Public Schools

Many of our Bitterroot students' art work will be on display.

Student Council Begins Soon

Mr. Senitte just visited with all of the 6th grade students about Student Council. All students that write and give a speech on Monday, December 7 at 10:00 am will make it into Student Council. The students who receive the top 3 number of votes will take turns as President, Treasurer, and Secretary. All other 6th graders in Student Council will be part of one of the following committees: School Store, Technology, Building and Grounds, or School Spirit/Special Activities. We are hoping for a good turn out again this year. It is a big commitment but the rewards are worth the hard work. Please encourage your child to run for Student Council!

We just finished chapter 3 in math. Their tests looked good. (You should be able to take a look at them tonight.) We are starting to add and subtract fractions.

In reading we have started Book Clubs. Your child is in a small group of students who all chose the same book to read. They had a choice of Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, Tuck Everlasting, or A Wrinkle in Time. All are great books! Each student has a booklet to work on as they read. They are expected to answer questions in complete thoughts and sentences. Students are allowed to work together on the booklets and work on them at home. Yesterday, all groups met and made timelines of how many pages would be read each day and when each worksheet would be due. I then met with each group to make sure all agreed and that it was doable. Many groups are choosing to read much of their book in the evening at home. I will also be meeting with each group at least every other day to make sure all are on track. Ask your child about his or her plan for completing the book and work.

In science, I was extremely proud of their creative amusement park rides. We are now starting the next book called Nature of Matter.

Hope you have a great week! Enjoy our winter wonderland!

Please Remember These Dates

Dates to Remember:
Dec. 3: PTA's Skate Night @ SkateWorld West (5:30pm-8:00pm)
Dec. 8: 6th Gr. field trip to Moss Mansion (9:15am-11:20am)
Dec. 14: 5th/6th Band/Orchestra Concert @ 2:15pm
Dec. 15: PTA Meeting in the library 6:30pm-7:30pm
Dec. 16: Skyview Trading Cards @ 1:10pm-3:00pm
Dec. 17: School trustee visit @ Bitterroot
Dec. 18: Family Fun Night (Time TBD)
Dec. 21: Holiday Music Programs (K-3 @ 9:30am & 1:00pm) (4-6 @ 10:15am & 1:45pm)
Dec. 21: Students will eat lunch in their classrooms today.
Dec. 23-Jan. 3: Winter Break...No School
Jan. 4: School resumes
Jan. 11-22: Venture Theater rehearsals 3:15pm-5:00pm (**No rehearsal on Jan. 18 PIR)
Jan. 15: End of 2nd Quarter
Jan. 22: Venture Theater productions (K-3 @ 1:00pm, 4-6 @ 2:00pm, parent performance @ 6:00pm)
Jan. 27: Skyview Trading Cards @ 8:00am-9:50am

Amusement Park Rides

More and More Rides

Last But Not Least

These pictures show our Amusement Park Rides. We learned Isaac Newton's three laws of motion during the process of building our projects. We also faced many challenges but had many successes. The most common challenge was thinking of ideas on how they were going to represent the three laws. The most common success was getting the rides to work properly. The class had many creative ideas, but they didn't always work on the first try. Overall, they all did a great job demonstrating their talents and all of Newton's laws. Thanks a bunch for encouraging and helping your child achieve this goal.

Written by:Cailey Hibl and Alexis Tingey

Mark These Dates on Your Calendar

Dates to Remember:
Nov. 17: PTA Meeting @ 6:30pm in the library If you haven't joined in before, come and find out all of the great things Bitterroot PTA does for our school!
Nov. 18: Educator for a Day
Nov. 18: Skyview Trading Cards here @ 10:20am
Nov. 20: BELIEVE Fundraiser pick up from 2:30pm-6:00pm in the hallway outside the gym.
Nov. 20: PTA sponsored Internet Safety presentation @ 7:00pm in the gym
Nov. 24: PIR Early out...Students dismiss @ Noon (Afternoon meeting @ Bitterroot)
Nov. 25-29: Thanksgiving Break
Dec. 7: 2nd quarter Midterm reports sent home with students
Dec. 9: Hearing follow-up screening
Dec. 14: 5th/6th Band/Orchestra Concert @ 2:15pm
Dec. 17: School trustee visit @ Bitterroot
Dec. 21: Holiday Music Program
Dec. 23-Jan. 3: Winter Break
Jan. 4: School resumes

Amusement Park Ride:

Just a reminder that your amusement park ride (for a marble) is due this Wednesday, November 18. We will present and evaluate them at 10:15. I plan to video record each presentation and post to the blog. See you in the morning!

A Great Day at Camp Cadre

I had a great day at Camp Cadre today. I am part of a group of teachers learning, sharing,and exploring technology. We had a great time today learning about GeoGreetings and then going out with our digital cameras and finding pictures of the letters of the alphabet formed in our community. Then my group used PhotoShop to create the word inspire out of our pictures. I encourage my students and their families to go out and look at the world with a different perspective. Take unique pictures, lie on the ground and look up at the branches of a tree, go to the park and look at the swings from a different angle. It was really fun! The following is an example of what we did:




We also created a Voki. My class should remember these!


Get a Voki now!

Change in date

The pick up for the BELIEVE PTA Fundraiser will be NEXT Friday, November 20th in the afternoon starting at 2:30pm in the hallway outside the gym. Parents need to come and pick up items. (Sorry, for the confusion on the date.)

Believe Fundraiser

The pick up for the BELIEVE PTA Fundraiser will be this Friday afternoon starting at 2:30pm in the hallway outside the gym. Parents need to come and pick up items.

Conferences are a Success!

Thank you to all of you who took the time to come visit with me about your child. I absolutely love getting to meet the parents of my students.
Remember to be working on your amusement park ride. Marbles and worksheets went home on Monday.
Some are having trouble in math. Please know that students are welcome to come in my class at 8:00 am to get help.
We have started earning AR points. All students have a ZPD or range from which they are to choose books. If students read in this "zone" then they will see the most growth. Our AR store opens on Wednesday. Read, read, read! Some available items in our store include: working in another teacher's class, extra recess, extra computer time, free assignments, extra credit, juice, pop, candy, and blizzards from Dairy Queen.
Speaking of Dairy Queen, I have several students who have earned a blizzard for First Quarter perfect attendance. They are Samantha, Duane, Alexis, Connor, Ethan, and Tommy! We'll eat lunch together on Thursday and then enjoy some ice cream.
Have a fantastic night!

Conferences Begin!

Conferences begin today and last through Thursday. Just a reminder that all students will be dismissed at noon on Wed., Thurs., and Friday. I'm looking forward to seeing you at your child's conference.

In science the students are learning about Newton's Laws of Motion. We have been reading and discussing it in our science books and online. The students have chosen to work independently or with a partner to create an amusement park ride. The actual construction of the ride must be done at home. There are 3 parts that they will be graded on. First, the oral presentation. To earn the maximum points possible (3) I will be looking for a presentation that includes an accurate explanation of how the rides demontrate Newton's Laws of Motion. A score of (2) would mean the ride includes the Laws of Motion but the it was not accurately explained. A score of (1) means the presentation indicates a lack of understanding of Newton's Laws of Motion.
Next, students will be graded on their visual presentation of display.(This will include a worksheet to fill out.) A score of (3) means the display accurately incorporates all necessary information-ride specifications, safety issues, and applications of Newton's Laws of Motion. A score of (2) means the display incorporates all necessary information, but does not accurately apply Newton's Laws. A score of (1) means the display is lacking some portion of necessary information, particularly information applying Newton's Laws. Finally, the ride will be graded on the rides function. A score of (3) means the ride works as described. A (2) means the ride works, but may need some adjustment during presentation. A (1) means the ride may or may not work, even with adjustment during the presentation.
I have given the students a copy of this rubric (grading system). If you would like a copy, I will have them available at conferences or email me to let me know. The rides are due on Wednesday, Nov. 18.

In reading, we continue with Number the Stars.
In the reading packet, the students are expected to write in complete sentences, use capitals correctly, and end punctuation. If your child brings this home to work on, please ask to see it. These are very basic skills that many students are forgetting to include in their writing.

I look forward to seeing everyone at conferences this week!

Great Resources for Gifted Students:

This is a list of resources for parents of gifted kids compiled by our Extended Studies teacher, Darla Williams. All of these are found online. Enjoy!

Online reading for parents

A beginners guide on gifted education
http://www.hoagiesgifted.org/gifted_101.htm

NAGC National Association of Gifted Children
Parent link
http://www.nagc.org/index.aspx?id=956

Davidson Institute for Talent Development
http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/browse_articles_233.aspx

Webinars

NAGC National Association of Gifted Children FREE registration through 2009 Broadcast every Wednesday
http://www.nagc.org/WOW.aspx

U C Irvine
http://unex.uci.edu/pressroom/releases/pr.asp?ID=214

SENG (Social & Emotional Needs of Gifted)
http://sengifted.org/webinar_upcoming.shtml


Online conferences regarding gifted education

http://giftedonlineconferences.ning.com/

Reading list for kids
“Suggested age levels are based on the ages of the gifted characters, the complexity of the issues confronting them, and the interest or appeal to gifted readers. However, since gifted learners frequently read and comprehend advanced materials, the appropriate levels of materials can only be determined by adults who know the child.”
http://www.bertiekingore.com/gtchildreninlit.htm

Keep These Important Dates

Dates to Remember:
Next week is Drug Free week. I hope all participate in the following activities:
Monday: "Lei Off Drugs"--Wear a Hawaiian Lei
Tuesday: "Drugs Stink, Wear Pink"
Wednesday: "Don't Let Drugs Tie You Up"--Wear a tie
Thursday: "No Drugs, No Alcohol--No Sweat"--Wear sweats
Friday: "Team Up Against Drugs"--Wear something from your favorite team

Oct. 28: Skyview Trading Cards are here @ 8:15am-9:50am
Oct. 30: End of 1st Quarter
Oct. 30: 4th Gr. field trip to Detention Center
Oct. 30: Harvest Party, sponsored by PTA, @ 6:00pm
Nov. 2: Vision Screening for K-3rd, 5th in the gym
Nov. 3: Report cards go home (K-6)
Nov. 4-6: Parent/Teacher Conferences (K-6 students dismiss @ Noon each day)
Nov. 12: K field trip to ABT @ 9:00am
Nov. 13: PTA Family Fun Night
Nov. 18: Skyview Trading Cards here @ 10:20am
Nov. 24: PIR Early out...Students dismiss @ Noon (Afternoon meeting @ Bitterroot)
Nov. 25-29: Thanksgiving Break
Dec. 9: Hearing follow-up screening
Dec. 11: 5th Gr. Hooked on Fishing
Dec. 14: 5th/6th Band/Orchestra Concert @ 2:15pm
Dec. 21: Holiday Music Program
Dec. 23-Jan. 3: Winter Break
Jan. 4: School resumes

Also, starting next Thursday, 6th grade will be selling necklaces made by Ethan's dad, Adam. They cost $10 and he is donating $2 from each necklace to our 6th grade field trip fund. THANK YOU! The necklaces are really cool...people can request different colors and styles.
Thanks,
Chris

Happy Monday!

Good afternoon! I hope all of you had a great weekend...with extra days off! Our class has had an awesome day. I feel as if the kids came back ready to work hard and learn.
We will be having our Chapter 2 math test next Monday, October 26. I put some practice pages and games on Successnet, the on-line math book. I suggest every student practice the various concepts that we've learned about decimals. It can get confusing. Remember the most important thing about adding and subtracting decimals is to.....LINE UP YOUR DECIMALS! The most important thing about multiplying decimals is to move your decimal in your product the same number as places as your factors. When dividing a decimal by a whole number...BRING YOUR DECIMAL STRAIGHT UP! When dividing a decimal by a decimal, move the decimal in the divisor to the right to make it a whole number and then move the decimal in the dividend the same number of places. Remember to bring your decimal straight up and then divide. If you bring me an example of each of these concepts tomorrow, you will earn 10 extra credit points in math! Shh! Don't tell anyone. Let's see how many people check the blog!
Today we started a new novel called Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. The students are working in groups. More info. to come.
This Wednesday we will be eating in our classroom and decorating our pumpkins. If you don't know about the pumpkin decorating, ask your child about it. It could help raise money for our classroom, plus it will be extremely fun!
This Friday we will have a Social Studies test over ch. 3 and a spelling test over Units 1-5. The exact words that will be on the spelling test are listed on the side of my blog. Please study.
Also, starting this Friday, I have a few parent volunteers coming in to work with small groups for some math enrichment. I met with Bitterroot's Enrichment Teacher, Mrs. Williams, this morning and she gave me some great resources. I'm excited to start.
Have a good evening!

Pictograph Cave Field Trip

Twenty and Ten Commercials:

Tuesday:

Dates to Remember:
Oct. 13: P/T Conference Preference sheets go home with students
Oct. 14: Rusty Assemblies (K-2 @ 8:45am, and 3-6 @ 10:00am) *Times tentative*
Oct. 14: PIR Early out day.
Oct. 15-16: MEA Days...No School for students
Oct. 19: PTA BELIEVE Fundraiser ends
Oct. 21: Conference preference sheets due back to school
Oct. 28: Skyview Trading Cards are here @ 8:15am-9:50am
Oct. 30: End of 1st Quarter
Oct. 30: Harvest Party, sponsored by PTA, @ 6:00pm
Nov. 3: Report cards go home (K-6)
Nov. 4-6: Parent/Teacher Conferences (K-6 students dismiss @ Noon each day)

Welcome Monday!

Just a reminder that we have a short week. Students are dismissed at 12:00 on Wednesday and have Thursday and Friday off due to MEA conference. I'll be learning how to better use technology in the classroom. I'm excited! Technology is a passion of mine.
Also this week, Rusty will be visiting our school and doing 2 assemblies on Wednesday morning. If you have never heard of Rusty, go to my favorite links and click on "Rusty" to view his daily message.
Hope all of you have a fabulous week. Stay warm!

Important Dates:

Dates to Remember:
Oct. 8: Tears of Joy Assemblies (K-2 @ 9:30am, and 3-6 @1:15pm). Students will eat in the classrooms this day.
Oct. 14: Rusty Assemblies (K-2 @ 8:45am, and 3-6 @ 10:00am) *Times tentative*
Oct. 14: PIR Early out day.
Oct. 15-16: MEA Days...No School for students
Oct. 21: Skyview Trading Cards are here *Time TBD*
Oct. 30: End of 1st Quarter
Oct. 30: Harvest Party, sponsored by PTA, @ 6:00pm
Nov. 3: Report cards go home (K-6)
Nov. 4-6: Parent/Teacher Conferences (K-6 students dismiss @ Noon each day)

Tuesday, Oct. 6

We had a great day at the Pictograph Caves. We became archaeologists and theorized what certain artifacts were used for in the past. We hiked up to the Pictograph Cave and the Middle Cave and learned many interesting things about both. I encourage you to go visit as a family. Your child would make a wonderful tour guide. There is a great place to have a picnic and a new visitor's center. So much to learn, right in our own backyard!
After school was our first Running/Walking Club. Several kids in class are participating. It was very fun, and we all made it 2 miles. Thank you Ms. Erickson and Mrs. Hankins for starting this club!
Just a reminder that on Wednesday, Oct. 7, our class is allowed to bring hand held electronic games, board games, a snack, and a drink. The class has earned 150 positives and will celebrate this accomplishment on Wednesday. Our next goal is 200 positives! I need everyone giving 100% in order to meet this goal in a timely manner. At times the class seems to think it is ok to talk whenever they want. Our job is to learn and it is important to listen to others when they are talking and to listen to the teacher. Please remind your child about the importance of being a good listener in class. I appreciate your support in this manner.
I will see all of you tomorrow! Have a fabulous evening!

Friday Again!

We had a great week in our class. The students have earned 150 positives which means we will be having "Wonderful Wednesday" next Wednesday, Oct. 7. The kids are allowed to bring electronic games, board games, and music players with earphones. They can also bring a snack and drink. Students will not be allowed to call home if they forget anything. I would suggest they put everything in their backpack the night before.
On Monday we will start the Running/Walking Club after school from 3:15-3:45. I'll be joining Ms. Erickson, Mrs. Hankins, Mr. Ness, and the students. If parents want to come, you are more than welcome to join.
Just a reminder that midterms came home today! Please sign the assignment notebook saying you saw your child's grade sheet.

Hope all of you have a fantastic weekend!

Monday! Monday!

Hope everyone enjoyed their beautiful weekend. We had a very busy day today! Please remember to study for your math and spelling tests this evening! I'd also like to let you know that there is a post/message for all of you on the math book website. Click on the link under "Favorite Links" to see it. Have a great evening!

Keep These Important Dates

Dates to Remember:
Sept. 25: American Indian Heritage Day
Sept. 25: Child Find sheets due to Greg by 4:00pm
Sept. 26: Saturday Live! 10:00am-4:00pm @ Pioneer Park
Sept. 28: Fall Picture Day. Students will eat in the classrooms this day.
Oct. 2: Midterms go home for students in grades 4-6
Oct. 8: Tears of Joy Assemblies (K-2 @ 9:30am, and 3-6 @1:15pm). Students will eat in the classrooms this day.
Oct. 12: 4th Gr. field trip to NILE (11:30am - 2:00pm)
Oct. 14: Rusty Assemblies (K-2 @ 8:45am, and 3-6 @ 10:00am) *Times tentative*
Oct. 14: PIR Early out day.
Oct. 15-16: MEA Days...No School for students
Oct. 21: Skyview Trading Cards are here *Time TBD*
Oct. 30: End of 1st Quarter
Oct. 30: Harvest Party, sponsored by PTA, @ 6:00pm
Nov. 3: Report cards go home (K-6)
Nov. 4-6: Parent/Teacher Conferences (K-6 students dismiss @ Noon each day)

Let the Sadness Rise

Our class read the book The Tiger Rising. A wise woman gives Rob the advice to, 'Let the sadness rise on up.' Students created a poem using this advice as one line of their poem. I was truly impressed with their creativity!

Happy Tuesday!

This morning the kids took their Math MAP test on the computers. This used to be called the NWEA test. Everyone did a great job at staying focused and doing their best. We will take the Reading test on Wednesday. Then next Monday, Sept., 21, we will take the Language test. I use the results to help me plan lessons that fit the students' needs. We take these tests again in the spring to see how much growth the students make throughout the year.
Today we will finish the book The Tiger Rising and then on Thursday we will begin the book Twenty and Ten. We have been working on formulating higher level comprehension questions, sequencing the main events of the story, summarizing each chapter, personification, and similes. Ask you child if they've sat on the "hotseat" during reading. The kids have also been writing various forms of poetry using personification and phrases from the story. Wow! What a creative bunch I have this year! I am changing the blog to invited guests only and then, with permission from the students, I will publish some of the video I have taken of them performing their poetry. Many wrote lyrics and free verse poems. All were fabulous!
In math we are working on order of operations, mental math using the Distributive Property, problem-solving, and variables and expressions.
We will have a social studies test this Thursday. The students will be allowed to use the notes the took in their workbook.
As you can see, a lot is going on in the 6th grade. I'll update the blog several times a week.
Have a fantastic day!

It's Finally Friday!

I am so glad that it is finally Friday and the weekend is here! For a short week, it sure seemed long. I was mixed up on my days all week! Luckily, the kids were great. I had 5 students come in this morning from 8-8:30 to work on technology. Every Friday my class is invited to come in and get some "extra" tech. time. Today we worked on blogs but we will be doing various activities throughout the year. I hope more people will start coming.
I've added a link about American Indian Heritage Day. Check it out when you have time.
Have a great weekend!

Thursday 9-10-09

We had a fast and furious day. The kids are really working hard and earning a lot of positives. Hoo-rah! Thank you to all who brought money to buy snacks after school. All money we raise will help fund our 6th grade graduation. Have a great evening! I'm off to go see Mrs. Culp's new baby girl! I can't wait!

Another Blog!

Hi everyone! I have updated my blog, as promised. You will find the assignment notebook for today on here and also a list of this week's spelling words. We will have a spelling test on Friday. See how many words you can use in a sentence. Remember, we are building our vocabularies. Find out the meaning of the words you don't know. Ask a parent, grandparent, friend,look it up in a dictionary (book or online).

Just a reminder to bring individually wrapped candy for our Saturday Live Candy Shack. We bag the candy and sell it at Saturday Live. This year it is on Sept. 26 from 9-4:00. It is always a lot of fun!

Also, tomorrow 6th grade starts selling snacks. All snacks are $1.00. All of the money earned goes toward the 6th grade graduation and end of the year field trip. Any extra money will be used towards field trips for the 6th grades. We are also collecting spare change in order to raise money for 6th grade field trips. We would like to go to the Pictograph Caves in September/October and to the Moss Mansion in December. If you've heard of any other good field trips, please let me know.

Happy Wednesday! Enjoy your evening!
Mrs. Morales

Friday Finisher

Wow! The first week of school is complete already! We really had a great first 3 days together. I appreciate all of you getting the many, various papers signed and returned to school so promptly. If I do not have your email address, please send me a quick email at moralesc@billings.k12.mt.us and I will add you to my address book. I think it is very important to stay in touch with each other in order for your child to do his or her best in school. I also update my blog regularly in order to keep everyone in the loop of what is happening at school.
Ask you child why we are having cereal and milk for breakfast on Monday during MATH class. They are great problem solvers and worked very well together.
Thank you 6th graders for a fabulous first week of school!
Mrs. Morales

Summer Info

READING ROCKS
Sign up to be a Reading Rocks Volunteer this summer!
Program Description
The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools is looking for
enthusiastic volunteers to read with children (pre-kindergarten
through sixth grade) in Central Park, North Park, and South Park
this summer at Reading Rocks. This program is offered four
days a week in conjunction with the free lunch program provided
by School District 2.

Who Should Volunteer?

High school and college students and adults who enjoy working with children.

Individuals who enjoy listening to children read aloud.
What’s the goal of Reading Rocks?
The goal of Reading Rocks is to provide a fun and structured environment for
students to read in during the summer months. Statistics show that low-income
students’ reading skills slip backward by two to three months each summer. By
providing additional reading opportunities in a convenient location, we hope to help
reverse this trend.
Scope of Responsibilities

Volunteers must attend one of two trainings offered in late May/early June.

Volunteers should be prepared to volunteer from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

We ask that volunteers be able to volunteer at least 5 times this summer.

Each day, a storyteller or special presenter will read aloud to the group of
students. Following that, volunteers will listen to individual children read and
help them pick out a book and prize to take home.
Summer Schedule

Reading Rocks will run from June 22nd to July 30th, 2009.

Reading Rocks will be in North Park (6th Ave. N. and 21st Street) on Mondays
and Wednesday from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Reading Rocks will be in Central Park (Central and 10th Street West) on
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Reading Rocks will be in South Park (S. 6th Street and Broadway) on
Thursdays from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Reading Rocks will be in and Crow Arrowhead Park(Crow Ln. and Flathead
St. – Heights) on Mondays from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Benefits
Helping children succeed at reading is a highly rewarding experience. Volunteers will
benefit as much as the children by seeing their enthusiasm.

READING ROCKS
Volunteer Application Form
Name: Date:
Address:
Cell Phone: Home Phone:
Email:
References: Please choose your references from among the following: employer,
minister, and/or colleague.
1. Name:__________________________Phone:_________________
Relationship:_____________________
2. Name:__________________________Phone:_________________
Relationship:_____________________
Days/dates I would like to volunteer:
Mondays in North Park
Mondays in Crow Arrowhead Park
Tuesdays in Central Park
Wednesdays in North Park
Thursdays in Central Park
Thursdays in South Park
Applicant’s Signature:

Please return your Reading Rocks Volunteer Application to:
Julie Whitworth
Lincoln Center
415 North 30th Street
Billings, MT 59101
406-245-4133 (phone)
Email to: whitworthj@billings.k12.mt.us

Track and Field Camp

TRACK AND FIELD CAMP
June 8 – July 17
Mon. Through Fri.
7:30 AM to 8:30 AM
This is a great way for kids to train for the Big Sky State Games!
Local high school coaches and sports performance trainers will help develop running, jumping, and throwing skills. Participants will have a chance to try and practice new and existing skills.
This will include a practice meet prior to the Big Sky State Games.
Plus, all athletes get a FREE t-shirt and water bottle.
Juniors (up to Age 12): Members $110/ Non-members $140
Age 13 – 18: Members $145/ Non-members $175 (GRANITE HEALTH AND FITNESS)

Reminder of Important Dates:

May 21: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the library
May 22: Student Council Spirit Day (Superhero Day)
May 22: Last Student Council Mtg. in M-6 @ 8:00am
May 25: Memorial Day, No School
May 29: Field Day
June 1: 6th Grade to Fuddruckers (8/8 weeks for blue sheets)
June 3: 6th Grade field trip (6/8 weeks for blue sheets)
June 4: K-6 Awards Assembly in the courtyard @ 9:30am
June 4: 4th Qtr. BUG Club @ 1:15pm in the gym
June 4: 6th Grade Graduation @ 7:00pm in the gym
June 5: Last Day of School, Students dismiss @ 11:45am.

Brain Teaser

Dice game

May 20, 2009
There are three fair 6 sided dice (A, B and C). However, they don't have the normal numbers from 1 to 6. Each die is as follows:

A - 2,2,4,4,9,9
B - 3,3,5,5,7,7
C - 1,1,6,6,8,8

The game is played between 2 people. Basically, you each pick a die and roll it once. Whoever gets the highest number wins that round. Luckily you get the choice of who gets to pick the first die. In order to win as much as possible:

1. Should you have first or second choice?
2. Which die should you choose?

As a family, with a friend, or individually, try to figure this out. It's worth extra credit in math...just for trying.

Montana Governor's Cup

I thought this might be of interest to some of you!

Montana Governor's Cup Marathon Training


FREE Montana Governors' Cup Marathon Training Event will meet on
Thursday, May 21, at 6:30 PM, at the Billings Sports Plex, 5000
Southgate Drive (near Geyser Park), in the Outlaws training facility.
Sponsored by Billings Clinic Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, runners and
walkers of all paces and abilities are encouraged to come and get up to
date information on training and avoiding sports injuries. This Thursday
join us for "YOGA FOR RUNNERS", presented by a certified yoga
instructor. Learn good, safe stretching techniques whether you run or
not. FOR FREE!


For more information please call Time Out Sports at 245-9735. For
marathon information visit: www.montanagovernorscupmarathon.org
. Local running
information is available at: www.rimrunners.org .

PTA Meeting on Thursday

Please join us:

PTA meeting
Thursday May 21
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Bitterroot library

We will be electing board members for 2009 - 2010 school year and voting on fall fundraiser ideas.

Hope to see you there!

Colleen Oliver
Treasurer

Conference for Parents and Students

Hello all,
I am very pleased to let you know that MSUB has secured John Halligan (see attached bio) as the keynote speaker for our SAFE SCHOOL SAFE COMMUNITY conference this summer on bullying, cyber-bullying and suicide. John has appeared on Oprah and several other prominent talk shows telling the story of his 13 year old son Ryan who committed suicide five years ago after he was ridiculed and humiliated by peers at school and on-line. John is a dynamic speaker with a powerful message. In addition to conference goers having the privilege of hearing John’s message we are inviting any school students who want to come to attend his presentation for free. His presentation will take place July 21 from 9:00a – 10:30a., MSU Billings Main Campus Student Union Building Ballroom. (To clarify, only students will be admitted at no charge.)

I am going to need your assistance to get the word out to your students before school is out. Please let me know what other information I can provide you with in order to do that.

This is very exciting for our conference and our community. I look forward to hearing from you to know how we can get the word out to kids, parents and teachers and counselors.
Thanks,
Kim

Thanks to the Yellowstone County Tavern Association, we are able to bring in this nationally recognized speaker.

Adults may come for free if they are accompanied by a child. Nancy can you please pass that information on.


Kim Schweikert
MSU Billings - Outreach Coordinator
College of Professional Studies & Lifelong Learning
208 North Broadway Suite 414 Billings, Montana 59101
phone 406.896.5888 cell 406.670.1986 fax 406.254.9787






Big Day at Castle Rock

We had a great tour of Castle Rock. All of the kids seemed excited and enjoyed our time over there. They really liked the lunch! Just a reminder that they are still 6th graders for 3 1/2 weeks. I still expect them to put forth their best effort and come to school ready to learn and work hard.
Thank you to those of you who have volunteered to bring cookies and/or soda for our graduation celebration on June 4th at 7:00 p.m. We still need more. If you can supply some refreshments, please write me a quick note in your child's assignment notebook or email me.
Have a great evening!

Dates to Remember:
May 13: Pastries for Parents @ 7:30am-8:30am in the gym.
May 13: 6th Grade field trip to visit Castle Rock (9:30am-1:00pm)
May 15: Student Council Spirit Day (Blue & Gold Day)
May 18: Music Concerts @ Bitterroot (4th Gr. recorder concert @ 1:00pm) (5th/6th Band/Orchestra concert @ 2:15pm)
May 21: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the library ***NEEDING OFFICERS**
May 22: Student Council Spirit Day (Superhero Day)
May 22: Last Student Council Mtg. in M-6 @ 8:00am
May 25: Memorial Day, No School
May 29: Tentative date for Field Day
June 1: 6th Grade to Fuddruckers (8/8 weeks for blue sheets)
June 3: 6th Grade field trip (6/8 weeks for blue sheets)
June 4: K-6 Awards Assembly in the courtyard @ 9:30am
June 4: 4th Qtr. BUG Club @ 1:15pm in the gym
June 4: 6th Grade Graduation @ 7:00pm in the gym
June 5: Last Day of School, Students dismiss @ 11:45am.

Graduation Help Needed

ATTENTION PARENTS OF 6TH GRADERS:
Sixth grade graduation is coming and we need your help. Please come help set up the stage, decorations, balloons, students’ posters etc. for our 6th grade graduation. Set up will be on Thursday, June 4 at approximately 2:15. Graduation is Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. We also need people to help clean up after graduation. No need to RSVP. Come and we’ll put you to work! ☺

If you are willing to donate a dozen cookies and/or a 2 liter bottle of Sprite (or something similar) for refreshments after graduation, please let one of us know.

Thank you in advance!
Mrs. Morales and Mr. Albarez

A copy of this will be coming home on Tuesday.

Summer Camps

I received these in an email and thought some of you may be interested in attending a summer camp this summer.

2009 Student Programs
Innovations in Math & Science
Students entering grades 8-10
A week long intense immersion experience exploring new ideas and powerful thinking. Students will recreate, explore and study the laws of motion together. Hikes and field trips.
Date: July 19th-25th, 2009

Outdoor Adventures in Math and Science
Students entering grades 9-11
A week long intense immersion experience exploring new ideas and powerful thinking. One overnight hike, canoeing and investigations in earth science, biology and other topics.
Date: Session 1: July 5th - 11th 2009, Session 2: July 26th - Aug 1st 2009

Young Naturalist Adventures
Students entering grades 4-7
Students spend 4 days and 3 nights exploring earth science and water habitats.
Dates:July 20th-23rd - A camp for students entering 4th and 5th grade
July 27th-30th - A camp for students entering 6th and 7th grades

Camp Discovery
Students Entering Grades 1-3
Students are picked up and delivered back to Helena each day for this 4 day camp where they participate in science experiments, create crafts, and listen to fun stories.
Date: July 20th-23rd, 2009

For more information contact cbock@montanalearning.org or rseitz@montanalearning.org

New update: Finally!

This is a busy week. Tuesday we have the Castle Rock counselors coming in to sign 6th graders up for 7th grade. Midterms also come home on Tuesday. On Wednesday we have a guest speaker who has traveled to India who is willing to come and share his knowledge with us. Thanks Kyra for setting this up! Chris Dixon will be here Friday to celebrate "NO missing work." He is having recess with us--for 1 HOUR--and then providing pizza for lunch.
Also, our end of the year Bluesheet Field Trip has been decided. We will go to the Outlaws' Sportsplex from 9-11, then over to Amend Park for lunch, and finally to Geyser Park from 12:00-1:45. We will return to school at approximately 2:15. The date is set for Wednesday, June 3. (We will return in time for music.) All students who have 6/8 weeks signed on their bluesheet will earn this trip. We're hoping for 100% participation. If you have any questions, please email or call me.
Thanks!
Mrs. Morales

More important dates:

April 30: C-Rock 8th Grade Jazz/Rock Band Concert in the gym @ 9:50am
May 1: Vacation Day, No School
May 5: C-Rock Counselor to visit 6th graders at Bitterroot @ 1:00pm
May 5: Midterms go home with 4th-6th grade students
May 8: BPS T-shirt day
May 8: Student Council Mtg. in M-6 @ 8:00am
May 8: 6th Grade guest
May 11-15: SRI TESTING WINDOW FOR GRADES 3-6
May 11: TILT Showcase @ Lincoln Center (5:00pm-7:00pm)
May 12: UBS "Hero" guest speaker in 4th gr. (11:00am) and 6th gr. (11:20am)
May 13: Pastries for Parents @ 7:30am-8:30am in the gym.
May 13: 6th Grade field trip to visit Castle Rock (9:30am-1:00pm)
May 15: Student Council Spirit Day (Blue & Gold Day)
May 18: Music Concerts @ Bitterroot (4th Gr. recorder concert @ 1:00pm) (5th/6th Band/Orchestra concert @ 2:15pm)
May 21: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the library ***NEEDING OFFICERS**
May 22: Student Council Spirit Day (Superhero Day)
May 22: Last Student Council Mtg. in M-6 @ 8:00am
May 25: Memorial Day, No School
May 29: Tentative date for Field Day
June 1: 6th Grade to Fuddruckers (8/8 weeks for blue sheets)
June 3: 6th Grade field trip (6/8 weeks for blue sheets)
June 4: K-6 Awards Assembly in the courtyard @ 9:30am
June 4: 4th Qtr. BUG Club @ 1:15pm in the gym
June 4: 6th Grade Graduation @ 7:00pm in the gym
June 5: Last Day of School, Students dismiss @ Noon

Hope this helps with organizing life this last 6 weeks of school.

Wow! It's Spring!

I love this weather! It's hard to stay focused on school work with this beautiful weather. I do believe the 6th graders are focusing though. Everyone continues to get all of their work in on time. Soon, Chris Dixon will be coming for an hour long recess to help us celebrate this success.
In reading we have started the book Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. If you can tell me what genre this book is in, you will receive extra credit in reading. I forgot to assign the homework today....so....if you would like to get a head start the homework that will be assigned tomorrow is for you to create the ultimate mouse house. It must be 3-D. Use your imagination. Create. Make a mess (clean it up though). We will share on Monday.
In buddies we have been working long and hard at developing a slideshow presentation of a monster story that each pair wrote. The lesson has included measurement (math), writing a story (language arts), developing a slideshow and editing the story (technology), creating a movie poster to advertise the slideshow (art, language arts), and finally presenting the slideshow to an audience. Wow! The work that is coming from this group of kids is amazing! Both Mrs. Betts and myself are very impressed.
In math we have been continuing to work on integers and geometry. Integers can be somewhat difficult so I've mixed in some fun geometry art.
I do have a few more dates for you to mark on your calendar.
*This Thursday is snack sales after school. Shannon Merchen is helping with that.:)
*Friday is Pajama Day and Student Council Meeting at 8 a.m.
*Also, all Read-a-thon calendars are due Friday. Bring them to school so we can win a pizza party!
*We visit Castle Rock on May 13!

Thanks!

Important Dates:

Dates to Remember:
April 7-16: NWEA MAP Testing OUR LANGUAGE TEST IS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 AT 8:30.
April 16: Sodexo Spring Lunch Celebration
April 16: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the Library (Voting will take place on New officers, Next year's assemblies, etc.)
April 17: Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day
April 17: RUSTY, the Counselor, from School Tools is at Bitterroot this afternoon. Assembly for 3rd-6th Gr. in the gym @ 1:20pm
April 24: Spirit Day (PAJAMA DAY)
April 24: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
May 1: Vacation Day, No School
May 8: BPS T-shirt day
May 8: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
May 18: 5th/6th Grade Band & Orchestra Concert @ 2:15pm in the gym

WOW! Can you believe the year is close to ending?! Yikes!

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter everyone! Hope all of you enjoyed a beautiful day outside. Enjoy one may day---no school on Monday. Aren't you lucky?! I hope those of you who haven't presented your science poster will be ready to present on Tuesday. Also, remember to finish reading Summer of the Monkeys. We will discuss on Tuesday, AR test, and begin our project. I will see you on Tuesday.

Another Spring Day!

We tested again today. Only 1 more MAP test (Language) to go. We will take it next Wednesday at 8:30. If you were absent today or yesterday then you will make up your test when you come back to school. Hope all of you have a great evening. Get out there and enjoy the warm weather!
p.s. Check out the quote and word of the day for extra credit.

Spring is Here!

We're all happy to see the sunshine. Sorry I haven't kept up on the blog. Life in 6th grade is busy, busy. Today we are taking the MAP math test. This used to be called the NWEA test but the name has changed. We also take them on the computer now which is nice. We get results almost immediately. We will take our reading test on Wednesday at 8:30. Our final test will be next Wednesday, April 15 at 8:30. It will be the Language test.
Just a reminder that Student Council will meet in my room this THURSDAY at 8:00 a.m. Remember that we do not have school on Friday or Monday. (I have meetings on Monday.) The blue sheets have officially started. So far, so good. Please remember to have your assignment notebook signed by a parent or guardian. Also, it is imperative that you get all of your work in, including when you are absent. Check the blog daily for assignments that you miss if you are absent. Ask a friend to call you to let you know what we did in school. TEAMWORK IS THE NAME OF THE GAME!!!
Have a fabulous, sunshiney evening! Enjoy! Read, read, read!

Dates to Remember:
April 7-16: NWEA MAP Testing (Gr. 3-6)
April 9: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
April 9: 3rd Quarter report cards go home (K-6)
April 10: Vacation Day, No School
April 13: PIR Day. No School for students.
April 14: 4th Grade to ABT @ 9:00am
April 16: Sodexo Spring Lunch Celebration
April 16: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the Library (Voting will take place on New officers, Next year's assemblies, etc.)
April 17: Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day
April 17: Rusty, the Counselor, from School Tools is at Bitterroot this afternoon. Assembly for 3rd-6th Gr. in the gym @ TBD
April 24: Spirit Day (TBD)
April 24: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
May 1: Vacation Day, No School
May 8: BPS T-shirt day
May 8: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
May 18: 5th/6th Grade Band & Orchestra Concert @ 2:15pm in the gym

Last Day of March!

Hello. Just a quick note about our day. We are continuing our practice of blue sheets today. If your child is absent, make sure he or she checks with Ms. Weiss tomorrow about absent work in order to have her sign the blue sheet. So far, everyone who did not have reading homework done yesterday has turned it in this morning. Very good, 6th graders! Keep up the great work.
I forgot to mention that the PTA is having a fundraiser. The packet went home last Friday. There are some great products in the magazine. Please remember no door to door sales. We want to keep everyone safe.
Also, NWEAs start next week. We'll be taking them on the computers again this time. When I know the exact schedule, I'll let you know. It's important that the kids get enough rest and eat a good breakfast. These scores help determine classes for 7th grade. I also like this test because it shows how much each child has improved over the year and what we need to continue to work on until the end of the year.
Make it a good day!

Shout Out from Rusty!

Be sure to check out Rusty's message today. He gave a shout out to our class!
Practice blue sheets began today. (They are actually green this week.) I had a few not bring in their reading today. They stayed in from recess to get their work done. Coming to school prepared and with assignments completed is essential to success in school and in getting a signature on the blue sheet. Let's all continue to work hard.
Today is the last day of 3rd quarter. As of today all missing work from 3rd quarter will remain missing work. Everyone has a brand new chance to have all assignments handed in on time. So far, everyone has all A's in FOURTH quarter. It's up to each student to keep it there. Work hard. Put forth your best effort. Finish your elementary career on a positive note! We also have a chance at having an hour recess with Chris Dixon if we continue to have no missing work. I know it's possible because the students accomplished this on a smaller scale once already.
The primary classes have conferences this Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday but grades 4-6 will have our regular schedule. We don't hold spring conferences but we do write comments on report cards for 3rd quarter. Report cards will be coming home Thursday, April 9.
Just a reminder that 6th graders are selling snacks every Thursday for 75 cents each to help raise money for our graduation and field trip at the end of the year. Student Council holds school store every Friday during lunch. Items cost 5 cents-$1.
This coming Monday, April 6 will be the kick-off of our Little Caesar's Read-a-thon. Everyone will get a calendar to keep track of the minutes they read at home. Parents will need to initial the calendar. At the end of the week, students will bring in their calendar so we can total our class's minutes. The class with the most minutes read will receive a pizza party courtesy of Little Caesar's. (They'll give a party for the top primary and top intermediate classes.) The top TWO STUDENTS who read the most minutes will receive a $20 gift certificate to Barnes and Noble. (Again, top 2 primary and top 2 intermediate.) WOW!!!! I hope everyone gets into this and READS, READS, READS!

The following are important dates:
March 30: End of 3rd Quarter
April 1, 2, 3: K-3 students dismiss @ 12:00 Noon.
April 1, 2, 3: Parent Teacher Conferences for K-3
April 3: BPS T-shirt day
April 7: Tentative start date for NWEA MAP Testing (Gr. 3-6) ???
April 9: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
April 9: 3rd Quarter report cards go home (K-6)
April 10: Vacation Day, No School
April 13: PIR Day. No School for students.
April 16: Sodexo Spring Lunch Celebration
April 16: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the Library (Voting will take place on New officers, Next year's assemblies, etc.)
April 17: Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day
April 17: Rusty, the Counselor, from School Tools is at Bitterroot this afternoon. Assembly for 3rd-6th Gr. in the gym @ TBD
April 22: Secretary's Day
April 24: Spirit Day (TBD)
April 24: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
May 1: Vacation Day, No School
May 8: BPS T-shirt day
May 8: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
May 18: 5th/6th Grade Band & Orchestra Concert @ 2:15pm in the gym

Have a fantastic day!

My new Voki!

Get a Voki now!

Yeah for Thursday!

Just a reminder that tomorrow we have a student council meeting at 8:00am in my room. It is also mismatch day. Have fun--dress in the dark. See you tomorrow!

Wednesday Blue Sheet Meeting

All 6th graders met this morning and we talked about Blue Sheets. Tonight at 5:30 parents are invited to come to school to find out about Blue Sheets. The meeting will last about 30-45 minutes and will be held in Mr. Albarez's class. If you are unable to attend, we will send home information with your child tomorrow.
Hope to see you tonight!

Students Help with Blog:

Hi. It has been a few days since my last blog. The students have been updating the assignment notebook and we started adding a quote and word of the day. I'm hoping to set up a blog for the kids to blog about questions I pose to them. That's my next technology adventure.
This Wednesday at 5:30 in Mr. Albarez's class we will have a Parent Blue Sheet information meeting. It won't last long. If you are unable to come, I will send information home with your child and you are always welcome to call if you have questions. (255-3825) We will also have a parent sign up sheet to help with 6th grade graduation. It is a lot of fun and the kids truly enjoy it. What a great way to end their elementary career.
We are having a math test over chapter 7 on Wednesday. We will review before the test. With MontCAS right in the middle, some are having difficulty with percentages. I think everyone will do fine. We reviewed today and then we'll go over it again tomorrow. Luckily, we do spiral review to help us remember concepts we worked on throughout the year. Therefore, they will definitely see percentages again.
On Wednesday we will also work on our Career PowerPoints. They are having a lot of fun finding out about a possible future career and how to present the information PowerPoint style. This is many students' first time using PowerPoint. When everyone is done researching and creating, we will send them to Rusty to view. (If you don't know who Rusty is, please check him out on my favorite links.) We will also invite parents in to view our creations. If you are unable to come when we schedule it, you can always send a flash drive or disc for us to copy it on and then view it at home. (You do need to have PowerPoint in order to watch it at home.) I'll let you know when we're ready for parents to come in.
In science the students are researching a topic of their choice about our changing earth. Some topics are magnetism, volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and the making of islands. We are just in the beginning stages of gathering information. When all of it is gathered, students will get a piece of poster board to create a visual about their topic. The poster will include a minimum of 10 fun, interesting facts and 5 pictures. Students can also make 3-D models if they choose. I want them to challenge themselves to find information that we will remember forever. Nothing boring! And of course, I want them to have fun and be creative!
Hope all of you have a fantastic evening!

Done with Testing!

Hi. We finished testing today. They did a great job! We started individual research projects in science today. Ask your child what they are learning about. After gathering information, each student will create a poster about their topic to teach the rest of us. They are to learn interesting facts about their topic. Nothing boring! They can include anything that they find in their science book, other nonfiction books from home or the library, Internet, Discovery or History channel, or documentary films. Have fun. Learn things that will catch our interest and things we will want to share with others. Be creative with your poster. I will give you a sheet of poster board but you decide the layout, the info., and how to teach others about your topic.
Have a great evening everyone! I'm off to hear my nephew play in a band concert tonight at Lincoln Center. I'm so excited to finally hear him play.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Hi. I hope all of you were wearing your green today. We had a good day. Not too much new. Please have your child get to bed on time tonight as we have MontCAS testing tomorrow right at 8:30. Also, remember to eat a nutritional breakfast. Encourage your child to do his or her best. It is our time to shine!
The only homework for tonight might be Reading. Chapter 6 and each student's work for that chapter is due Wednesday. We will have reading in the afternoon since we are testing on math in the morning. Our goal is NO MISSING WORK!
A note will be coming home but just a heads up. Next Wednesday, March 25 we will have a Parent Meeting about Sixth Grade Blue Sheets. It's a fun way to end the year and involves many rewards for doing what they have been doing all year. It tends to help keep 6th graders on track. We will also discuss 6th grade graduation and our end of the year field trip. The field trip is earned by having signatures on the blue sheets for 6 out of 8 weeks. Come find out about all of this exciting information next Wednesday evening at 5:30. The meeting will only last 30-45 minutes and will be in Mr. Albarez's room. (Right across the hall from me.)
Thanks!

Let the NEW challenge begin!

We have officially started our second challenge of no missing work until May 1st. It lasts a month and a half. Can we do it? Yes, we can! There is no holding us back at this point! We are a team and we will encourage each other to do our best. Individually, we will do our best. I saw many of you at the Outlaws' home opener Sunday afternoon. What a great game!
This week we have MontCAS testing on Wednesday and Thursday morning. We are testing our math skills. The tests are scheduled to begin right at 8:00 a.m. Please be here on time. Also, get a good night's sleep and a nutritional breakfast.

NEXT WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25 WE ARE HAVING A SIXTH GRADE PARENT MEETING TO TELL YOU ABOUT BLUE SHEETS. THE MEETING WILL BE AT 5:30 AND LAST ABOUT 30 MINUTES. MORE INFORMATION TO COME. :)

The following are important dates:

March 10-20: MontCAS Testing Window
March 18: 3rd Grade to ABT @ 12:00pm
March 18: Skyview Trading Cards here (1:10-3:00) **Last session for this year**
March 25: Parent Meeting for 6th grade students about Blue Sheets
March 27: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
March 27: Spirit Day (TBD)
March 30: End of 3rd Quarter
April 1, 2, 3: Parent Teacher Conferences for K-3
April 3: BPS T-shirt day
April 7: Tentative start date for NWEA MAP Testing (Gr. 3-6) ???
April 9: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
April 9: 3rd Quarter report cards go home (K-6)
April 10: Vacation Day, No School
April 13: PIR Day. No School for students. (8:00am District Mtgs., 12:30pm Bitterroot Mtgs.)
April 14: 4th Grade to ABT @ 9:00am
April 16: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the Library (Voting will take place on New officers, Next year's assemblies, etc.)
April 17: Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day

Thanks for reading!

We did it!!!!!!!

I couldn't be more excited! Chris Dixon just visited our classroom with tickets for every child to go to an Outlaws game. GO OUTLAWS!!!! As a whole 6th grade we are planning to go to their first game this Sunday, March 15 at 2:00 p.m. Before the day ends I will write with more details and send home a note. If you are unable to attend this game, then the ticket is actually good for any home game. Tell your child how proud you are of him or her and our class for getting in ALL of their homework! Way to go 6th grade! Ask your child about our next challenge. It's going to be a little more difficult but I know they can do it!
Have a great weekend and I hope to see you at the game!

We will meet at the Metra between 1:00 and 1:15 on Sunday, March 15. At 1:15 we will attempt to go find a place for all of us to sit. The tickets are general admission. If you choose to sit somewhere else, that is fine too. Every child needs to be with an adult because I won't be able to be responsible for each child. Hope to see you Sunday!

Challenge Yourself to Succeed!

Great news! So far, we have no missing work. Some have worked extra hard to get all of their absent or missing work in. We are a great team! If we make it through tomorrow then we will succeed! I hope this team attitude continues for the rest of the year! Let's keep encouraging others to do their best. If you haven't listened to Rusty's message today, please do. He talks about complaining not getting us anywhere. I agree. Go to solution is a famous saying from Ms. Erickson that I've passed on to my own children. What a way to look at challenges, obstacles, problems, and trials.
T--together
E--everyone
A--achieves
M--more!
I'm so proud of my class!

No Missing Work by Thursday!

Yes! All of the students who have missing work need to get it in by Thursday in order to meet a challenge by a famous football player. Challenge yourself to SUCCEED! No Excuses! Everyone has things going on in life that can make it difficult to complete a task. Some see it as a challenge...and succeed. Some see it as an obstacle...and fail. Let's all be successful! We are a team on this challenge. If one person fails, we all fail. If all succeed then we all are rewarded! Call your friends and make sure they have their work done and in their backpack ready to turn in. If you know you have missing work, then strive to do YOUR best. Work as hard as you have to and get it done, put in your backpack, and turned in to me. All of you are capable of this.
I will see you tomorrow! We will succeed!

We're Back!!!

We are back and ready to work. This morning several students went to the gym with Mr. Ashcraft for Conflict Manager Training from 9:00-11:00. This is a great program that our counselor sets up each year to help children solve problems that may occur on the playground at lunch recess. This year Conflict Managers will only be working on the primary side. They not only get to help the younger kids solve conflicts but they also get to play with them and be positive role models. It's a great program!
In reading we are continuing on with the book Summer of the Monkeys. We're on chapter 4 and will begin chapter 5 tomorrow. Our assignment is the Story Tree Teller worksheet. At this point all reading is being done in class but you may see some work in the evening.
We finished Chapter 11 in Social Studies the Friday before Spring Break and today we started Chapter 12. Each child took turns being the teacher for another student. They each had to teach the 4 Truths of our Classroom. It was supposed to represent how in many cultures, traditions are passed down orally. We are specifically studying the history of Judaism but also discussed how Native American cultures also pass on traditions orally. I thought it was a neat way to get that point across.
We also tested on chapter 6 in math before break. We will be doing some Geometry this week along with chapter 7--Percent.
Finally, we will take the MontCAS test on Reading this Thursday and Friday from 8:30-10:00. Please make sure your child gets enough sleep and a good breakfast. It's also important that he or she is here on time because we start right at 8:30. Encourage them to do their best. I'm sure they all will do great!

Dates to Remember:

March 9: Conflict Manager Training in the morning in the gym
March 9: K-3 Teachers send home spring conference preference sheets
March 10: Begin MontCAS testing (Grades 3-6)
March 13: Student Council Meeting in M-6
March 16: Spring conference preference sheets due back to school from parents
March 17: K-3 Teacher Conference Schedule Mtg. in the library @ 3:15pm
March 18: 3rd Grade to ABT @ 12:00pm
March 18: Skyview Trading Cards here (1:10-3:00) **Last session for this year**
March 27: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
March 27: Spirit Day (TBD)
March 30: End of 3rd Quarter
April 1, 2, 3: Parent Teacher Conferences for K-3
April 3: BPS T-shirt day
April 7: Tentative start date for NWEA MAP Testing (Gr. 3-6) ???
April 9: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
April 9: 3rd Quarter report cards go home (K-6)
April 10: Vacation Day, No School
April 13: PIR Day. No School for students. Teachers have meetings.
April 14: 4th Grade to ABT @ 9:00am
April 16: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the Library (Voting will take place on New officers, Next year's assemblies, etc.)
April 17: Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day

Lovin' Spring Break!

Hi everyone! I hope all of you are having a wonderful Spring Break. The weather has been fantastic! I have been painting my sons' rooms. It has been a lot of work but it looks really nice and they love it! We've enjoyed our time together. On Tuesday we went to McDonald's with Grandma and then on Wednesday the cousins came over to play. Today a friend came over to visit. It's been very relaxing.
Remember that we start our MontCAS tests on the Thursday we come back. Get lots of rest and be ready to get back to work on Monday. Our goal is NO missing work. I know you can do it!

Spring Break is Next Week?

With this weather, it is hard to believe that Spring Break is next week. Yikes! I hope it warms up! Yesterday we had Chris Dixon come to our class as a guest speaker. He talked about appreciating our parents, being a team, and making sure our team is successful. Everyone really got a lot out of his talk. The kids are working hard to have no missing work for 3 weeks. Chris challenged them to help others be successful and to turn in all of their work on time. Ask your child what will happen if we succeed. I will see all of you tomorrow! Remember....only half of a day tomorrow. Children are dismissed at noon.

What a Great Day!

We had a wonderful day today! The kids worked hard. The only homework they may have is math. We will have a chapter 6 math test on Wednesday. We reviewed and practiced today as we will do tomorrow. I encourage all of the students to review the chapter with the "More Practice" pages at the end of the chapter. We are also reviewing Geometry each day.
In reading we orally read chapter 2 in the novel Summer of the Monkeys. The next assignment will be for the students to write a Journal/Diary entry from one of the character's point of view. It will be important for the writing to include feeling words and specifics of what the character saw and what exactly happened in the character's perspective. We will finish ch. 2 tomorrow and then work on our writing.
In spelling we are on Unit 25. We will have a test over it on Friday.
Social Studies has been interesting. We are studying the history of how Judaism began. Many students have brought in their Bibles and/or shared their own beliefs. I always find it interesting learning of others' views and beliefs. We are not saying one is right or wrong--they are beliefs that various people have. Some may be different than our own and some may be similar. Our Lesson 11 test will be on Friday.
As you can see, I am trying to finish up several subjects because next week we have Spring Break. We won't finish our novel but we will pick that up when we come back on March 9th.
Mr. Ashcraft is planning to have training for Conflict Managers on Monday, March 9. It will be held during that morning. More information to come.
More exciting news:
-We will be having a guest speaker this Wednesday morning. Ask your child to see if they were listening when I let them know. :)
-We also have another special guest speaker in April. Rusty the counselor will be coming to our school. If you don't know who this is, ask your child. He gives us good advice every morning and we write about his toolbox question in our Writer's Notebooks. You can also go to his site by clicking on "Rusty" from my favorite links.

Hope all of you have a superb week! Remember to smile. People will wonder what you're up to. :)

Dates to Remember:
Feb. 27: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
Feb. 27: PIR Early out. Students dismiss @ Noon.
March 2-6: Spring Break, No School
March 9: Conflict Manager Training in the morning in the gym
March 10: Begin MontCAS testing (Grades 3-6)
March 13: Student Council Meeting in M-6
March 18: 3rd Grade to ABT @ 12:00pm
March 18: Skyview Trading Cards here (1:10-3:00)
March 27: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
March 27: Spirit Day (TBD)
March 30: End of 3rd Quarter
April 1, 2, 3: Parent Teacher Conferences for K-3
April 3: BPS T-shirt day
April 7: Tentative start date for NWEA MAP Testing (Gr. 3-6)
April 9: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
April 9: 3rd Quarter report cards go home (K-6)
April 10: Vacation Day, No School
April 13: PIR Day. No School for students.
April 14: 4th Grade to ABT @ 9:00am
April 16: PTA Meeting @ 6:00pm in the Library (Voting will take place on New officers, Next year's assemblies, etc.)
April 17: Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day

Winter Carnival is Tonight!

Hi everyone! Happy Friday. My students informed me that I haven't been blogging this week. I have no excuses for Tuesday and actually thought I had blogged on Tuesday but I was proven wrong. I was gone on Wednesday and my computer at home is toooooo slow. I had a great experience. I volunteered in my sons' classrooms. One is in kindergarten and the other in 2nd grade. What a treat to see my own kids in school. I was so impressed with their teachers. In fact, it was so fantastic that I plan to do this every year....until they think it's too embarrassing to have mom in school. :) Thursday after school, the teachers played volleyball against the 6th graders. What fun! We used a beach ball this year. I have to admit, I still had trouble hitting it. But all of us had a lot of fun and the 6th graders were great sports. They do think they won but as I recall no score was kept. I think they want to challenge the teachers in kickball next. I better start working out!
We have had a lot of kids sick. Rest up this weekend and I hope everyone is on the mend for next week. Remember, after next week, we have a whole week off for Spring Break! I'm very excited for this as are most of the kids--perhaps all of the kids.
All of the students are doing a good job of staying on task and getting their work done. Mid-terms did come home on Wednesday. If you have any questions, please call. Remember, if you have been absent it is up to you to get your make-up work from me. It's important to stay on top of this as missing work really brings down grades.
Hope all of you have a wonderful weekend! See you Monday!

The Spelling Bee Took Place Today!

Thank you to all of the parents and relatives who were able to come to the spelling bee today to support your child. It was quite exciting!
We finished our projects in reading today by sharing and then evaluating them. They are hanging in the hall and are fantastic! If you get a chance to stop by and read them, I strongly encourage you to do so. Tomorrow our class will be starting the novel Summer of the Monkeys. It is pretty funny and I think they will enjoy reading it. At times the student will be working independently and others they will work with partners or small groups. We will be using the skill we used in Book Clubs to help deepen our understanding of the book and we'll also be learning/practicing new skills.
I am hoping kids are getting on the Study Island site at home. Our last chance to be on it at school will be on Wednesday. It is good practice for the NWEA and MontCAS tests that will soon be coming our way.

This week's important dates:
---Volleyball games-teachers vs. 6th grade will be Thursday, Feb. 19 at 3:15. I am not sure if it finishes at 3:45 or 4:00 but will let you know as soon as I know.
---Friday, February 20 from 6-7:30 p.m. is our school WINTER CARNIVAL!!! I hope all of you can come and have lots of fun. It's a great way to spend a Friday night. It's inexpensive and there are lots of good prizes. Hope to see you there!

Dates to Remember:
Feb. 16: Bitterroot Spelling Bee in the gym at 1:00pm (For grades 4-6)
Feb. 18: Skyview Trading Cards here (10:20am)
Feb. 19: 3rd Qtr. Midterms go home for 4th-6th grade students
Feb. 19: Staff v. 6th Grade Volleyball Match @ 3:15pm in the gym
Feb. 20: Winter Carnival (6:00pm-7:30pm)
Feb. 27: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
Feb. 27: PIR Early out. Students dismiss @ Noon.
March 2-6: Spring Break, No School

Quote of the Week:
"Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this light." - Albert Schweitzer (via Rusty's School Tools) Check it out! It is now a link on my blog! :)

This Weeks Trivia:
How many U.S. state capitals have the word "city" in their name? Hand in the correct answer and you earn 5 extra credit points in Social Studies.

Happy Valentine's Day!

We made it through another Valentine's Day with our sanity! Yeah, teachers! Truly, the kids did a great job planning the party. We had fruit kabobs with banana, pineapple, and apple, carrots with red Ranch dressing, Doritos, brownies, sugar cookies, and fruit punch. The decoration committee had a great time spreading confetti around the room. Yes, I did say confetti. Luckily we did a great job cleaning it up and were even complimented by Miss Patti on how clean our room was! We owe a BIG thanks to Shannon. She picked up a lot of it before the kids came back from Health/PE. THANK YOU!!! Entertainment had a fun game that we played as a whole class. We also showed our creative Valentine boxes and everyone was awarded. Thanks to all who sent cards, goodies, vegies, fruit, chocolate, decorations, etc. We really did have a fun time.
Hope all of you have a wonderful, relaxing weekend! See you Monday!
p.s. Remember that if you want to come in at 8:00 on Monday to do Study Island, you can.

Thursday

Reminders:
Friday the 13th is tomorrow. At 8:00 a.m. we have a student council meeting in my room. All 6th grade student council members should attend. Friday we will have our Valentine's Party. Bring your decorated boxes.
On Monday our school will be having its annual Spelling Bee. If your child made it in, please try to attend or send a relative or family friend to help support him or her.
Next Friday, February 20, sixth grade will have a guest speaker. He is a 4-H member who traveled to Austria and Germany. Should be interesting. Friday evening is Bitterroot's Winter Carnival. I hope all plan to attend. It will be from 6:00-7:30 p.m. It's always a lot of fun and the PTA provides great prizes. Thanks PTA!!!

Thanks for reading!

Was It a Full Moon Yesterday?

Yes! I don't know about where you work, but I do believe a full moon brings out the "noisies" in children. O.k. and teachers. I forgot all about posting a blog yesterday until 8 a.m. this morning.
Today seemed much calmer to me. The children are excited about finishing our novel and starting our project. Individually they are writing a narrative ladder about a character in the story. With their Book Club they are creating a poster with each piece of writing and picture on one big piece of butcher paper. They are to add a border that has something to do with the story and also to make the poster pop. We will continue to work on the project on Thursday and then present them to the class on Friday. Monday my class is going to start the novel The Summer of the Monkeys. If you have never read this book, grab your child's copy in the evening and read along. It is hilarious! We are going back to groups of children just within our class. It was a lot of fun working with Mr. Albarez's children too but we're going to take a break from it for awhile.
The children have voted! They actually voted to take the Social Studies test today instead of on Friday. It was an open book, open note test and most finished in class. Those who did not finish will need to finish it at home tonight.
We have started chapter 6 in math. They are finding this so easy because we're learning about ratios but have already learned about fractions. I love seeing they beam when they understand new concepts right away!
Hope everyone has a great evening. (I almost put weekend.) I will see you on Thursday!

Dates to Remember:

Feb. 13: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
Feb. 16: Bitterroot Spelling Bee in the gym at 1:00pm (For grades 4-6)
Feb. 18: Skyview Trading Cards here (10:20am)
Feb. 19: 3rd Qtr. Midterms go home for 4th-6th grade students
Feb. 19: Staff v. 6th Grade Volleyball Match @ 3:15pm in the gym
Feb. 20: Winter Carnival (6:00pm-7:30pm)
Feb. 27: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
Feb. 27: PIR Early out. Students dismiss @ Noon.
March 2-6: Spring Break, No School

Marvelous Monday

Hi. Today was picture day. Just a reminder that all 6th graders get a free group picture courtesy of Lifetouch. Every child also had an individual picture taken and those will go home for you to look at and then you can decide to buy or return them.
Today we also talked about our Valentine's Party which is this Friday from 12:40-2:00. I'm asking that everyone create a Valentine's box or bag and then the students came up with different categories for us to judge each box. They wanted enough categories so everyone could receive a prize. I'm bringing prizes.
We now have our 5 contestants and 1 alternate for our school spelling bee. If your child made it they will bring home a slip tonight giving you the date and time. It will be Monday, February 16 at 1:00 in the gym. Please try to come and support your child if you can as it can be a little tense up in front of everyone.
This Friday is a Student Council Meeting at 8:00 a.m. in my room. All 6th grade student council members should plan on attending.
Next Friday is our Winter Carnival at the school from 6-7:30 p.m. This is a lot of fun and I hope everyone plans on attending. The PTA has been awesome again this year. All of the money we earn at our booth, we get to keep to use in our classroom. Perhaps we'll need to plan a 6th grade end of the year field trip. :) Also next Friday, a student who is in 4-H and traveled to Austria and Germany will be in our 6th grade classrooms for a presentation. Last year it was a very interesting discussion and I found out I had several kids in 4-H.
Finally, I would like to remind everyone that with this warm weather more and more kids are walking to school and home. Please talk to your child about always walking in groups, look around and be aware of your surroundings, keep your cell phone handy and ready (if you have one), and report any suspicious or strange behavior to an adult. Let's keep everyone safe.
Thanks for reading,
Mrs. Morales

ps Are you ready for your word of the day? Actually, to earn 5 extra credit points in any subject of your choice you have to tell me how and where Valentine's Day started. Good Luck. I need the info. by Wednesday. :) shhhh!

Finally Friday!

Yeah! It is the weekend! The kids were a little chatty today--but we had a good day. We talked about our Valentine's Day party. Each child chose a committee to be on. They are to talk to you this weekend and also create their own unique Valentine's box. I added a Valentine's Day slideshow to my blog just to help us remember the upcoming festivities. (And because I thought it was cool.) Spelling test should be coming home tonight. Most did very well. Next week I will let you know who made the Spelling Bee. The big day for the Spelling Bee is Monday, Feb. 16 at 1:00 p.m. in the gym. I will let you know if your child is in it so you can come and watch. It's always exciting---and a little tense. REMEMBER: Spring Pictures are this coming Monday. And Friday we are having another Student Council meeting in my room at 8 a.m.
Have a fabulous weekend! The nice weather gave me spring fever. My family is going to clean! Aren't they in for a nice surprise!

Thursday Flew By!

Happy Thursday everyone. The kids were fantastic today. I had several bring in the secret word and/or answer to the secret math problem. Yeah! Keep watching for more ways to earn extra credit or maybe even some kind of treat. (Food is always important in the 6th grade:) Tomorrow we will be talking about our Valentine's Party. I divide the students into different groups and each group is in charge of organizing part of the celebration. For example, the Decorations committee will decide how we decorate the room and then decorate it during lunch recess. Other committees are the Food Committee, Entertainment Committee, Set up/Clean up Committee. Our party will be Friday, February 13 from 12:40-2:00. I encourage people to bring healthy treats such as pretzels, cheese, vegies, fruit. Also, if your child chooses to give Valentine's Day cards, he or she will need to give one to every class member. (We will make a list on Friday.) We don't want any hurt feelings. I think it would be fun for each student to create their own Valentine's Day box. Remember when you were in elementary school and your got out the craft paper, markers, tin foil etc. and created the most awesome robot Valentine's box ever? Well, I think it would be exciting to let these kids show off their creativity. So, your assignment is to create, make a mess (and clean it up), and have fun! Bring in your boxes on Friday, February 13--ready to display.
Mrs. Morales
p.s. To earn 5 extra credit point in Social Studies, tell me what the 7 continents are.

Tuesday is Terrific!

What a great day! The kids have worked hard and cooperated with each other. I have decided against posting our social studies dramatizations because some of the kids say their name and it is against school policy to post a child's name and photo. I wasn't successful yesterday with putting a math game link on here for the kids to use at home. Keep your fingers crossed. I'm trying again. A great site is called Study Island. There are many practice math and reading tests that are supposed to help kids do better on standardized tests. I will try to put a link to this page. Have a great evening!
Mrs. Morales
p.s. Secret Math Problem: Solve and hand in for 5 extra credit points on your math test. 40 x 3/8
Shhhhh! It's a secret.

Happy Monday!

Hi. I'm thankful to those of you who have been reading my blog. The kids are getting better and better at looking at this for information. Please remember to send two baby pictures to school ASAP. After scanning all of them, I will return them to you. We will be using them for our 6th grade graduation slideshow.
Also, students will be having a chapter 5 math test this THURSDAY. There are pages at the end of the chapter to help them review for this test. I suggest they look these over Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evening.
February is "I love to read" month. Let's make our best effort to read at least 20 minutes/5 days a week.

Dates to Remember:
Feb. 9: Spring Picture Day (Staff picture @ 8:00am...ALL STAFF!) Class pictures and individual pictures today.
Feb. 13: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
Feb. 16: Bitterroot Spelling Bee in the gym at 1:00pm (For grades 4-6)
Feb. 18: Skyview Trading Cards here (10:20am)
Feb. 19: 3rd Qtr. Midterms go home for 4th-6th grade students
Feb. 20: Winter Carnival
Feb. 27: Student Council Mtg. in M-6
Feb. 27: PIR Early out. Students dismiss @ Noon.
March 2-6: Spring Break, No School

Magic word of the day: guinea pig--If a student writes this word on a piece of paper and turns it in to me (remember your name), then he or she will earn 5 extra credit points on the math test! shhhhh! Don't tell.

Good Morning!

Just a quick reminder that all student council members will meet at 8 a.m. in my room on Friday.
Today we are performing our Social Studies dramatizations. I will be using a Flip Video to record them and then I hope to post pictures on my blog. We'll see how much of a "techie" I'm capable of. :)
Have a great afternoon! Kids are dismissed at noon today. (Regular day on Friday.)
Mrs. Morales
p.s. Take our class survey.

Happy Wednesday!

We had a great day today. The kids are ready for their Social Studies' dramatizations. They will perform tomorrow at 11:10. Mr. Albarez's class will come and watch. We were able to watch their performances yesterday and today and we congratulate them on a job well done. Please remember that Book Club will meet again on Friday. Have your work done and ready to share.
Mrs. Morales
p.s. EARLY OUT ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 29! DISMISSAL AT 12:00.

Oooops! I missed Thursday!

I don't know about you, but I've had a difficult time remembering what day it is this week. Well, just so you know, it is FRIDAY! The kids have been working extremely hard. I'm so proud of there positive attitudes. You should see your child's report card today. If you have questions, please call.
Some students may have homework this weekend. They are to read p. 7-25 in our reading book, The Great Gilly Hopkins and then do CROPQV. Our Book Clubs will meet on Monday. Also, some may have language as homework, p. 104-105 (1-20). It is due Monday. Because of our Venture Theater play, we did not have a math assignment. We did review adding, subtracting, and multiplying fractions and mixed numbers.
I wish all of you a happy weekend! Rest up and enjoy your family time.
Mrs. Morales

Welcome to Wednesday!

Hi. We have started our new novel and new reading Book Clubs today. Plan on reading at home in the evening. We also welcomed a new student to our class today. His name is Austin. I hope all of you are enjoying the warm weather. Just a reminder that report cards go home on Friday. Be looking for them.:)

Welcome back!

Today we are finishing up our book Tracker with our final Book Club meeting. We will start our new book, The Great Gilly Hopkins, tomorrow. We are combining both 6th grade classes for this book. Each Book Club will have 2 students from our class along with 2 students from Mr. Albarez's class. The kids are excited about working with the other class.
In math we are continuing our work on multiplying and dividing fractions. The kids are finding this easier than adding and subtracting fractions. Of course, we will continue our Spiral Review in order to keep all of their skills fresh.
We are starting a new science unit today. It is called The Changing Earth.
In Social Studies we are completing Lesson 9. The kids are creating dramatizations about certain classes of the ancient Egyptians. We will be presenting next week to Mr. Albarez's class.
I hope this finds everyone healthy and happy!