In Language Arts we have been working on evoking mood in our writing.  We explore this craft of writing through using our senses to set the scene and choosing precise words and including details.  The children have written a news article with a focus on the mood of panic.  Our grammar skill that we are working to master is capitalization.

In Reading, we have read several selections from our reader and leveled readers.  We have focused on the theme of Natures Fury.  Right now were reading Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary.  We are working on asking deeper questions in order to have interesing blog discussions and literature circles.  Questioning is a very important skill and improves comprehension.  

We are in the middle of our Social Studies unit on Meso-America with a focus on the Mayas.  Ask your child to share what theyre learned about their culture!

Looking forward to seeing you at conferences.

Contact information for Mrs. Simmons

erin_simmons@mvyps.org

school  508-627-3316  ext. 174

home 508 939-4034

You can always do a book project for extra credit! Her are some ideas for how to respond to a book:

     1.          Summarize the book in poem form with rhyme.

2.         Write a letter to the author.

3.         Use two other sources to research and write a report on an issue from the book.

4.         Write a one minute radio advertisement persuading the pubic to buy and read this book.

5.         Research and write a report about the author.

6.         Q & A – Pretend you’re interviewing a character from the book.  Write your interview in question and answer format.  Ask thought provoking questions.

7.         Create a poster comparing and contrasting two books you have read. 

8.         Make a collage from a magazine highlighting your favorite character.

9.         Design a time-line for events in the book.

10.       Write a letter to one of the characters in the book.

11.        Sticky notes – As you find interesting quotes, events, or meet interesting characters in your book, write down your thoughts, feelings, or observations on a sticky note and stick it to the page.  Bring your book to me and we’ll discuss it!

12.       Top 10 List – List the top ten things you learned from the book. (Great for non-fiction!)

13.       Write your own test – a combination of multiple choice, true/false, short answer, and essay.

14.       Have a friend read the book and take your test!