Parent Newsletter 2015
Parent Newsletter 2015
Parent Newsletter 2015
This year we are very excited to be implementing a new Fountas and Pinnell
Leveled Reading Program in our classroom. This program is closely aligned with
Common Core State Standards designed to help individual readers. Using a
benchmark assessment, a reading level will be determined for each child. Each
week the student will read a short story with a variety of activities to enhance
fluency, comprehension, and problem solving skills. The student will be
assessed weekly and texts will be changed as the student moves up in his/her
reading level.
By implementing the new Guided Reading program into our daily curriculum,
we are able to support each student in a small group, but the ultimate goal is
independent reading.
SPELLING: Every week different spelling principles will be presented and
children will learn to apply strategies to help them spell words correctly. Every
Monday there will be a pre-test. This test will have all the words for the week.
This will serve as a study sheet that can be left at home. Other assignments
may be given during the week for homework. These activities are designed to
help children prepare for our Friday tests.
SOCIAL STUDIES: The students will be using a social studies series: Harcourt
Our Communities. In the first trimester, we will study how communities provide
goods and services to help people meet their needs.
SCIENCE: This year we will be using a science book from Scott Foresman.
During the first trimester, we will study the world of plants and animals. We will
also be incorporating a hands-on approach to learning through the Foss Science
kits.
HANDWRITING: Our third graders will begin learning cursive skills during the
year. A great emphasis will be placed on form and neatness. Please,
encourage your child to practice at home.
ASSIGNMENT BOOKS: Use of an assignment notebook is extremely
important in the development of your third graders organizational skills. It is
important that parents check them daily. Signatures are required
every day. Please try to make this part of your childs daily routine.
Homework, reminders, long-term projects, and an occasional note for you may
be in this book. Please, encourage your child to be responsible in this matter.
HOMEWORK is given Monday through Thursday. In third grade, children
should spend at least 30 minutes a night on homework. Part of the homework
assignment is to read aloud 15 minutes each night and to practice math
flashcards and handwriting. During the first trimester, careful attention will be
paid to missed assignments. Please try to keep a positive outlook regarding
must stay after school to complete activities that correlate to the missing
assignments.
Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns:
Ms. Coleman- mcoleman@cajetan.org
Mrs. Grella- jgrella@cajetan.org