Library Media Center's Information

We've been spending time looking at all the resources Shatekon has to offer our students. One under-used resource is the Library Media Center link off of the Shatekon Homepage. Per the students request, I'm listing the usernames and passwords so you can access the links at home. :)

Shatekon Media Center

1.       Type in www.shenet.org

2.       Click on Shatekon (at top right)

3.       Click on Library Media Center

4.       Click on Databases

BookFlix

Username: shencsd

Password: bookflix

 

Brain POP!

Username: shatekon

Password: Albany

 

Culturegrams

Username: 63-79594

Password: bigchalk

 

Exploring Nature

Username: capital13

Password: capital13

 

GALE

Username: empirelink

Password: empirelink

 

Grolier

Username: shatekon

Password: shatekon

 

NoodleBIB

Username: capreg

Password: boces

 

Teachingbooks.net

Password: capregionboces

 

World Book Online Gold

Username: shatekon

Password: shatekon

 

 

 

 

Chapter 4 - Math Re-test

Yesterday, our class took a Chapter 4 Math Test.  Because many children struggled with the directions and/or concepts on this assessment, I feel it is best to give the children a second opportunity for this test. Not all students are required to take the test; it is an option. The higher of the two scores will be taken as the grade.

To prepare for the re-test, please go over the test with your student and discuss where the errors were. Also, feel free to use any questions from Chapter 4 in either the colored book or the black and white. The Re-Test will be Friday, December 20, 2013.

I'm coming back :)

It is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter to you! I am very happy to be coming back to Shatekon and working with your students. I have heard wonderful things about our classroom and have seen it this week while I’ve been meeting with each student and observing the classroom routine already in place.

          Starting Monday, I’ll be back full swing, picking right up where Mrs. Brimhall will have left off. We have worked closely this week to ensure the transition is smooth.  Our goal is for the students to feel calm and comfortable as we move forward in the school year. While I’m going to do my best to keep things the same, there will be some changes simply as a result of different teaching and management styles.

          I look forward to meeting all of you and encourage you to email (cushkati@shenet.org), call or write if you have any questions or simply to say hello. You can expect a newsletter the first Friday of each month. My blog is accessible through the Shatekon homepage. I often add links for extra practice and pictures of classroom events.  I’m very quick to respond to email and of course we always have the student’s agendas.

          I very much look forward to working together for the rest of the school year. J

 

                                                                   Respectfully,

                                                                             Mrs. Katie Cushman

Prevent the Summer Slump

Our class had a discussion today about how to stay sharp and smart over the summer Here are some suggestions on fun ways to prevent the summer slump.

Some recommended apps are:

1. Times Attack
2. Penguin Jump
3. Tug of War
4. Go Easel
5. Sketch Kid
6. Tony's Tire Shop
7. Space Racers
8. Pop Words
9. Grand Prix
10. Marvel Unlimited

Some other pointers from your classmates are:

• Make sure to play outside or go to the pool; don't just be lazy in front of the T.V.
• Do some school work but then go back to playing.
• Work on math flash cards.
• Read with an e-reader to make it more fun.
• Use the S.T.A.R. resource off of the Shatekon Homepage.
• Go to the library at least once a week.
• Challenge yourself to read texts that are appropriate and not too easy.
• Always have a good supply of texts.
• When it rains ask yourself "How can I make the best use of this time?"
• Make a game to go with your studies.
• Do science experiments when your friends are still sleeping OR get one ready to do together.
• Stretch or exercise and practice skip counting like during our SPRINTS.
• Re-use old SPRINTS and time yourself for another minute.
• During long car rides read to yourself or someone.

Prevent the Summer Slump

We made the news!

The Community News ran a wonderful article about our Animal in Me poetry slam.  They included some nice pictures and a fun video.  Check it out! 

http://www.cnweekly.com/articles/2013/06/08/news/doc51b0b5c2080aa000221946.txt

June Newsletter

ELA

Reading:

Ø  Students are finishing realistic novels and completing a book summary.

Ø  Since there are no more TFK’s this year we’ll be reading conservationist magazine!

Writing:

Ø  All students are working on their autobiographies. Please make sure to help find pictures of family to include.

Grammar:

Ø  We are wrapping up all parts of speech using MADLIBS!

Spelling Patterns:

Ø  List 27 - Homophones

Ø   List 28 - Vowel consonant, consonant, vowel ~ last list

Math

Time and Money

Concepts:

ü Students will learn how to convert measurements to solve mulit-step problems referring to both time and money

ü Students will  use models, number lines and the bar method to find possible outcomes

Assessments:

ü  6/7/13 Time and Money quiz

ü  6/10/13 Shenendehowa local assessment in math ~ this grade does not reflect your students report card

Social Studies

Chapter 6 NYS Government & Chapter 7 NYS Transportation

Concepts:

v Students will find out how New Yorkers take part in their local and state government

v Students will find out what it means to be a US citizen

v Students will learn how NYS was effected by various water ways and means of transportation

Vocabulary:

Democracy, budget, bill, veto, appeal, justice, county seat, board of supervisors, trustee, borough, special district, immigrant, naturalized citizen, register

Reminders

6/6 – Albany Field Trip

6/7 – Half day of school 11:00 dismissal

6/10 - Shenendehowa local assessment in ELA ~ this grade does not reflect your students report card

 

6/14 – Flag Day assembly & half day of school 11:00 dismissal

6/18 – Fourth Grade Class picnic ~ rain date 6/19

6/20 – Last day of school ~ 11:00 dismissal

Poetry Slam

Our poetry slam last week was a great success!!  Thank you so much to our families who had time to come out and support the 4th graders.  Remember, all masks and poems will be on display near the children's library for the next two weeks (until 6/17/13). Make it a point to stop in and bring a friend.

Also, our poems have been "published" and you can find the collection of poetry written by our class in the childrens library.  This book will be there forever so again, make sure to bring a friend or family member to sow off your impressive work!

Hanging Basket Flower Sale

I apologize these order forms went out late (2days). I've spoken with the PTA and Mary Smith has offered two solutions:

1. contact her directly with your order over the weekend via phone (817-5615) or email alexianiko@hotmail.com to place your order

2. Send in the order and payment on Monday.

Again, sorry about the quick turn around time. These willl be a great gift for Mother's (or special lady's) Day! : )

Too late to apologize

We listened to a wonderful song on youtube that was suggested by Mrs. Burdick.  This tune helps up to understand the causes of the American Revolution with a familiar song.  Enjoy!

Too late to apologize - a declaration

May Newsletter

ELA

Reading:

Ø  Our NYS tests are over and we are back to our normal routine. We’ll begin our first literature circles focusing on the genre realistic fiction. Please anticipate nightly reading and an assignment. Students must be prepared to participate in a discussion the next day.

Writing:

Ø  Jackie Sweeney is back and she helped us kick off our “Animal in Me” project. Students are asked to channel the animal they are most like and create a free verse poem in class and a 3D mask in art. Keep an eye out for further presentation details!

 

Spelling Patterns: All tests are Thursdays!!!

Ø  List 24 – words –ed or -ing

Ø  List 25- words “silent letters”

Ø  List 26 – contractions

 

 

Math

Concepts:

o   We’ll focus on decimals and how they relate to fractions. It is so important that students know their place value chart for whole numbers and now decimals.

         

 Assessments:

o   We’ve begun a fluency practice called “Sprints”. They are researched based and focus on personal improvement and review of concepts. They will be taken Mon., Wed. and Fri.

 

Science

Our NYS 4^th grade science tests are 5.22.13 AND 6. 3.13. The concepts will be 1^st -4^th grade material. We’ll be reviewing in school and there may by HW assignments.

Social Studies

5.8.13 we’ll travel to Mabee Farm to explore colonial NYS hands on style!

We are also learning about the American Revolution and the kids are very excited!

Reminders

ü  5.2.13 Orchestra in school performance

ü  5.8.13 Mabee Farm Field trip

ü  5.13.13 Scotia-Glenville Simple Machine presentation

ü  5.14.13 PTA fundraiser at McDonald's 4pm-7pm

ü  5.21.13 Literacy Night & Budget Vote

ü  5.22.13 NYS 1^st Science test

ü  5.24.13-5.27.13 No School memorial day weekend

ü  5.29.13 Field day

5.31.13 “The Animal in Me” presentation at the Clifton Park – Halfmoon Library

Ask the Animal Presentation

Tomorrow is our big "Ask the Animal" presentation! Our students have been working feverishly creating PowerPoint presentations reporting interesting information learned about a NYS animal. If you are joining us please go directly to the computer lab at 1:15. There you will find the animal experts ready and waiting to share out their knowledge. Feel free to mill about and learn as much as you can from our "Ask the Animal" zoo!

Important Day!

A lot of important documents went home today in your students folder. Please check to make sure you've
1. Received the report card and returned the envelope with the comment sheet
2. Returned the Field Trip permission form and sent in the money  **The permission form is of utmost importance.
3. Returned the "Ask the Animal" presentation invitation form

Come and Sing Along!

Here is a link to a Test taking song that we listened to a few times in class.  The kids really enjoyed it and it's a great reminder to slow down, don't get overly stressed and do your best!

Upcoming Dates

Today the class and I reviewed the "End of the Year at a Glance" document which is on golden paper and in their silver folders. You will find important dates regarding NYS tests, field trips and activities that are upcoming. Please try to avoid scheduling anything during these times as most events cannot be "made up".  The end of the year is coming up so quick!

Welcome back!

Welcome back from Spring Break!  We have a lot to do this month! Please remember that NYS testing will take place April 16th-18th (ELA) and April 24th-26th (math).  All students should be to school on time, well rested and with a good breakfast.  Any extra reading and math you can do at home will only benefit your student. I'm asking that all students start bringing home their math text books nightly to brush up on chapters we have already learned. You could use the "extra practice" section in the back or the chapters themselves to review. Thanks for your continued support. : )

We have a winner!!

After tons of work and lots of persuading our class has decided how to spend the $166 raised by our Art Sale to benefit Heifer International!  Yi Chee has written a beautiful essay that convinced the class to donate a flock of ducks, geese and chicks, honeybees, and a house!  Thanks to all who donated.  This is a project they will not soon forget. : )

Shensational Essay Contest

Another exciting opportunity is upcoming this month.  Shensational, which is a wonderful, family day that highlights student achievement and creativity will be held March 23 in HS West.  A part of the celebration will be readings from the essay contest held for elementary students grades 1-5.

I'm sending home information and the essay forms if any student thinks he/she would be interested and be able to attend Shensational if their essay was picked!  This is optional but I will be encouraging students to give it a try.  : )

March Newsletter 2013

ELA

Reading:

Ø  We got a little carried away in our study of Historical Fiction so we will begin mythology this month. J  We will determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including those that allude to significant characters found in mythology (e.g., Herculean). Exploring all of the gods and goddesses should be really fun!

Writing:

Ø  We’ll finish persuasive writing and begin writing essays using resources from two text (fiction and nonfiction).

Grammar:

Ø  Greek and Latin roots or affixes

Spelling Patterns: All tests are Thursdays!!!

Ø  List 19 – changing y to i

Ø  List 20- suffixes

Ø  List 21 – words with er or and ar

Math

Concepts:

o   Quadrilaterals in geometry

o   Congruent and Symmetrical figures

o   Different triangles

o   Measurement

o   Customary and metric

o   Perimeter and area

 

Vocabulary:

o   See notebook for important vocab

Assessments:

o   Each unit of study will have a pre and posttest.  You will see how much your child has grown with each concept!

 

We will be having the geometry math test 3.15.13

Science / Social Studies

We will finish learning about electricity and test on 3.8.13.  Our labs have been extremely interesting as we are taking the WISE approach to learning. During each lab students have a chance to Wonder (predict and questions), Investigate, Synthesize their learning and express their new knowledge. By discovering the wonders themselves the information is that much more ingrained.

We will also begin our animal study late in the month.

In between electricity and animals we’ll travel back in time to NYS as an English colony. Students love this chapter as they can really begin to see NYS as they know it today.

 

Reminders  

ü     Fin Friday ~ wear green

ü 3.10.13  Daylight savings time begins

ü 3.15.13 Geometry test

ü 3.22.13 No school ~ Superintendents Conference Day for staff

ü 3.29.13  to 4.5.13  ~ No School ~ Start of Spring Break

ü 4.16.13 to 4.18.13 NYS ELA tests

ü 4.24.13 to 4.26.13 NYS Math tests

Check out pictures of our Art Sale on the Class Pictures Link!

Art Show invite Due

As you know our class art show is Friday morning (3.1.13) in the library.  If you or anyone you know would like to come support our mission of helping Heifer International, please RSVP by tomorrow.

Heifer International Website

Check out our cause!

http://www.heifer.org/

Library Event

This Saturday February 9th, the Clifton Park-Halfmoon library will host "The Paper Crane Project" at the Clifton Park Center - Food Court from 10:00-2:00
Students can participate in the Paper Crane Project during the Town of Clifton Park's Winterfest. Create a one-of-a-kind folded paper crane and other animal origami to be sent to the Children's Peace Monument in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Before the origami are mailed, we will display the creations at the Library and around the community including at Shensational.

PTA fundraiser

The PTA spring fundraiser ends on February 11^th.  The delivery date will be the week of March 18^th.

January Newsletter 2013

ELA

Reading:

Ø  This month we’ll focus on the genre of historical fiction.  In reading groups we’ll be reading novels within this exciting genre.  We’ll also begin our ELA test preparations by reviewing concepts already taught.

Writing:

Ø  The focus will be on dialogue within stories.  We’ll explore how word choice can make all the difference and how to use quotation marks. .

Grammar:

Ø  Run-on vs. fragment sentences and quotations.

Spelling Patterns: All tests are Thursdays!!!

Ø  List 13 – possessive nouns using apostrophes

Ø  List 14- commonly misspelled words

• List 15 – words with ei, ie, and eight

Math

Concepts:

o   Review equivalent, mixed, and improper fractions

o   Review comparing and ordering fractions.

o   Begin fractions within a number line, simplest form, decomposing fractions and adding mixed numbers with like denominators.  

Vocabulary:

o   See notebook for important vocab

Assessments:

o   Each unit of study will have a pre and posttest.  You will see how much your child has grown with each concept!

o   Math fact tests will be 1/9 and 1/23: these tests are graded and are so important to your students math understanding.

Social Studies

Concepts:

We’ll be taking an in-depth looking into both how Europeans explored what is now NYS and how the Dutch settled this area. It’s amazing how much history is in our how backyard!

While we study we’ll pair our text book with both fiction and non-fiction sources of information.  

There will be homework, quizzes and tests along with this unit so make sure to check your student’s agenda each day.

Reminders

ü 1-18 The fourth grade class with present a choral poem with the topic of Martin Luther King Jr. All are welcome!

ü 1-21 Martin Luther King Jr. Day – No School

ü 1-25 Half day dismissal at 11:00

ü 1-29 Quarter 2 Grade Book Closes

ü 1-31 Book orders due