Many thanks, and the Winter Break

Wow. A million and one thanks to all of the families that pulled together to make today's classroom celebration a memorable one. The kids (and myself) had an amazing time. The food was wonderful and the spirits remained high. I know we'll be talking about the fun that was had today for months to come. Again, much thanks.

The kids were also made aware of some extra credit possibilities that they can choose to pursue over the break today. They may choose one, both or none. Credit will be given based on knowledge and effort. Parents may help, but no more than 10%.

One, the kids may build a model replica of the mission they reported on. Mission model kits will not be accepted, so be creative with what you have around the home and in the yard. The potential is limitless. The kids who pursue this project will be required to present their work to the class, but a written component is not required (as we finished that already). There are many websites out there to help those out who need it.

Second, the kids may build a 3-d habitat of their choosing. This, while potentially art, is a bit trickier than the mission as a writing component will need to accompany the finished product. The diorama must show available resources to the animals that inhabit the particular area. For example, a forest habitat should show a complete food chain and evidence of shelter(s). The written portion of this project will need to accurately describe the relationships between the organisms of the habitat. The written portion should be mindful of proper grammar and structure.

Extra credit will only be accepted on the first day back from Winter Break, and students will be expected to share their work at some point during that week.

Have a healthy and peaceful holiday, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all. Today was a treat. The kids worked hard to pull together their mission reports. Those who were unable to get the materials together were asked to take them home to complete for tomorrow's due date.

We were also treated to the Rio Rockers this morning. Eric kept a mean beat on the drums and Cassie strummed a groovy base (see above).

We also had the opportunity to work in the computer lab. It's going to prove itself as a valuable resource to all the students.

The kids need to complete their cursive packets tonight (letter u, toss the v please), reading log, and complete their mission reports (if necessary).

Have a great afternoon. We are looking forward to celebrating tomorrow!

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday Rally

The kids went gang-busters today in working with both their mission reports and their buddy books. We'll be assembling the mission reports tomorrow! They are looking great!

Thursday also brings us our student rock n' roll band assembly as well as our first visit to the new Rio computer lab. It's quite a cool room, so check it out when you have the time.

The science tests, by the way, were awesome! The kids did an excellent job.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log
-cursive packet, letter 't'
-completing mission cover or map (if necessary, as most are done)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and Wednesday

Howdy all. We are getting so very close to completing our mission reports. The kids can see the finish line! With all of this material wrapping up for Winter Break, I know that some of you are feeling overwhelmed. We'll work through it. I have no doubts.

The class was lucky enough to have a visitor today, and we would like to collectively thank her here. Mrs. McNeilly taught the kids how make portfolios for their mission reports. They are looking good. Thanks again Mrs. McNeilly!

Wednesday brings our science exam on food webs and energy chains. The kids and I had a long review session today, and with tonight's homework, I'm expecting the exam to be a breeze.

We are just about ready to complete our Buddy Books for our kinder friends in Mrs. Varni's class. Most of the class has finished typing and illustrating their work, so we'll be putting them together tomorrow and Thursday morning for delivery that afternoon.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log
-cursive packet, letter s
-science workbook pages 78 & 79
-and, for those who need to, completing their buddy books

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and the week

Between the rain and the upcoming break, the kids are crazy! Yes, xmas fever has officially hit the classroom. I am attempting to keep the kids to task for these last few days, so will leave a few reminders about what is happening in terms of assignments and assessments.

Wednesday brings the food chain / energy web exam. It is our first substantial science exam of the year, and the kids have been made aware of for the past two weeks. It is a closed book exam, so the kids will be working from memory and experience. I have encouraged them to reread several lessons in the science book to prepare.

We are near to completing our mission reports. The kids have two paragraphs yet to compose before we tackle the rewrites. Mrs. McNeilly has graciously volunteered to help the kids create portfolio folders on Tuesday afternoon. Several of the students have lagged in their writing and were asked to take materials home this past weekend in an effort to bring them up to speed. I will be asking students to do the same tonight and tomorrow if they are using their classroom time unwisely.

On Wednesday we will complete our Spanish studies with Ms. Murray. The kids and I have enjoyed her time with us and are looking forward to presenting our skits to the class. I'll be recording then skits and attempting to post them here over the winter break.

We are also near to completing our Reading Buddy story books. I have laminated those that were completed on Friday and will finish the balance out as they are turned in. We'll be binding them on Wednesday afternoon so that the kids may present them to their kindergarten friends on Thursday.

Thursday brings us the student rock band assembly. Those interested in joining us may do so in the MPR from 9:15 - 10.

Friday brings us our Winter Break festivities. The class will be celebrating from recess through lunch. Julie and Lisa have done a wonderful job reaching out to families and organizing what I am sure will be a memorable experience for the kids.

In the meantime, the kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log (New, and in the Orange Folder. It is double-sided for the the break.)
-math 57 (all)
-cursive packet, letter 'r' (also in Orange Folder)
-continue with mission report (if not caught up)
-study for Wednesday's science test

Sorry for the novella, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all. The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log (due tomorrow)
-cursive packet, letter 'q' (also due tomorrow)
-reading practice book pages 200 & 201
-study for spelling quiz

peace out, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, after our lovely and short day, the kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log
-cursive packet, letter 'p'
-reading practice book pages 195 & 199
-math lesson 56, all

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Holy cow, we had a marathon of computer use today as kids searched the web for information on their respective missions and typed out their buddy book stories. The reports are moving along quite well, and we hope to have our buddy books completed by Friday so that we can laminate and bind them before presenting them to the kinder class next week.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log
-reading practice book, pages 193 & 194
-science practice book, pages 70 & 71
-cursive packet, letter 'o'

Tomorrow we have the second grade play, Spanish practice and PE! Should be a mellow day after today's hard work.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday

Howdy all, and welcome to the new week. The kids and I are continuing with some specific projects leading up the winter break. We are working diligently with our mission reports, our picture books for our reading buddies, food chains and energy webs and math. We are also finishing our reading of "The People of Sparks". Honestly, things are wrapping up quite nicely, and I am feeling good about our progress on the year. Still, I will be offering some extra credit work over the long break for those who need to stay busy or want to extend their learning.

Also, Julie and Lisa (room moms) have included an envelope in the orange folders this week regarding our Winter Break party on Friday, December 19th. Please be on the lookout for them.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log (due Friday)
-reading practice book pages 197 & 198
-math 9A
-cursive packet, letter 'n'
-science pg. 188, questions 1-8 (Sorry about this, but the kids had a behavior issue in class that unfortunately caused me to send this home with them.)
-orange folders

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday and Friday

Howdy all. The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log
-reading practice book pages 185 & 186
-math lesson 54 (all)
-cursive letter 'm', packet due tomorrow
-study for spelling quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all. We had quite a treat today with a performance from a Ukranian band. The kids continued their research and writing with missions as well, and finished up their producer / consumer posters.

Everyone is responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log
-math 53 (all)
-reading practice book pages 177 - 179
-cursive packet, letter 'l'

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all. The kids had a groovy time today working with food chains and odd produce hybrids. Sometimes this place is like a mad scientist's laboratory.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log
-cursive packet, letter 'k'
-math 52 (all)
-science practice book pages 54 - 59 (is a review of what we read together yesterday)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Welcome back...

Howdy all, and welcome back from what I hope was a restful and peaceful Thanksgiving break. The kids have been great, and are clearly happy to be back in class.

The Orange Folders that have made their way home today have new Accelerated Reading goals for this grading trimester. The goals, for the most part, are noticeably higher than the first trimester's goals, so please keep in mind what I shared with you at the conferences; these goals are based on a longer reading window. If you have questions about goals or scores, please do not hesitate to send me off an email.

As far as returned student work goes, I have caught up completely with math grading, but am still a bit behind in language packets and cursive. Families should receive the balance of their child's work in next week's folders.

In these weeks leading up to Winter Break, the class will take a siesta from literature circles and social studies textbooks. We will be focusing on short stories from our reading anthologies, producers and consumers / energy cycles in science, California mission reports and math.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (new one in Orange Folders)
-reading practice book pages 181 & 182
-cursive packet, letter 'j'
-math lesson 51 (all)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and Tuesday

Howdy all. It's good to be back in the classroom. The kids are more than excited about our two-day schedule this week, and I can't blame them!
We're keeping things simple these two days as a good chunk of the class has taken off early for the upcoming holiday. With that, there will not be homework tonight or over the break.

Two notes of interest for you all:

1.) Ann Rankin has organized a Turkey Drive for Tuesday at school in conjunction with the Second Harvest Food Bank. Those who can donate a turkey should drop it off at school tomorrow!

2.) There seems to be a rash of chickenpox running about the campus. I am sending each student home with an alert from the school nurse regarding the outbreak!

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Orange Folders and next week

Howdy all. The kids each received their Orange Folders today. In them you will find ID pictures, information on the next restaurant night @ Chili's, a new reading log, and report cards. The report cards are looking stark, thanks in part to the new electronic format. You'll notice that comments are on the light sight, considering that we are just coming off of conferences. Please sign and return the manila envelope that contains the report card ASAP. In fact, returning it in a signed Orange Folder would be most appreciated. There will not be Orange Folders sent home next week.

I will be out of the classroom again next week, and I apologize for the series of absences this month. Allyson Weston, whom the kids adore, will be here in my absence.

While I am away, the kids are responsible for the following:

Monday - Reading log, math lesson 49 (all), cursive letter 'e' and reading practice book pages 155, 161 & 162.

Tuesday - Reading log, math lesson 50 (all), cursive letter 'f' and reading practice book pages 158 & 159. Please make sure that you are ready for tomorrow's Literature Circle meeting.

Wednesday - Reading log, math 8A, cursive letter 'g' and reading practice book page 164.

Thursday - Reading log, cursive letter 'h' and reading practice book page 163. Make sure you are ready for tomorrow's spelling quiz.

I will not have access to email while I am away, so pressing concerns should be addressed to administration. Again, I apologize for the excessive absences this month, but thank you each for your understanding.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Happy Wednesday

Howdy all. I hope that each of you were able to enjoy our Veteran's Holiday.

The kids are getting more than antsy for their report cards. Contrary to an earlier post here, I am required to provide each family with a paper copy of their child's records. Please do not expect individual e-mails on Friday.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due Friday)
-Math 46 (all)
-Reflections practice page 42

Respectfully, Mr. B

Enjoy

Please enjoy a restful 4 day holiday weekend. As a friendly reminder, the kids each took home their James and the Giant books and literature circle packets. Groups will be meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 12th. They need to bring their prepared materials to class on that day.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all. The class and I had a log discussion this morning regarding respectful behavior on campus and in the classroom. Whether it has been a byproduct of Halloween, I cannot say, but the kids have been more than a handful this week. We've even had complaints from other classrooms and teachers. Not the class that I have come to know at all these past days. We'll be spending more time during our class meeting tomorrow discussing expectations and acceptable behaviors.

The kids were, however, troopers today for our math and language benchmark exams. We managed to complete them both today with few issues.

The class is responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading Practice book page 138
-Math lesson 45 (all)
-complete Pronoun Packet (if necessary)
-study for tomorrow's spelling quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday and beyond

Howdy all. Well, due an absence from one of our runners-up, I am needing to postpone the announcement of our second classroom representative. Once both parties are present, we'll be interviewing the candidates to determine our second rep.

You might have noticed some changes to the exam schedule this week. The staff was just given a math and reading assessment whose results are due to the district office by next Friday. So, keeping our collective sanity in mind, I am opting to pass on our usual math tests for the week. We will have a math assessment on Thursday and a language assessment on Friday. These exams will not be graded, nor will they be factored into the kids' report cards. They are benchmark exams for State Academic Standards only. Honestly, they use these exams to make sure that teachers are doing their jobs. They're harmless.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Pronoun packet pages 63 & 64
-Math lesson 44 (all), pages 204 - 205
-continue studying for Friday's spelling quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Class Election Results

Howdy all. I am happy to announce that Ms. Sarah Hancock has been elected to serve this school year as a student representative for our Lucky Room 13. We have another representative seat up for grabs, and it will be filled tomorrow by one of our two runners-up. I'll post our second representative tomorrow.
Again, I'd like to thank those students who put their time and energy into applying themselves toward the bettering of our school community. Their efforts and energy are truly inspirational to us all.

Congratulations Sarah! I know that you will do the classroom and school proud!

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Election Day

Howdy all. Well, we held our classroom elections this afternoon for fourth grade representatives. I was completely impressed by the quality of the speeches and the insight they offered in building a better community for us all. Since the actual election polls close at 8pm tonight, I informed the class that I will post the results here at that time. Check back in tonight! (and don't forget to vote if you haven't yet! NO excuses!)

I was informed by Mrs. Dorney that I have to send home paper report cards with every child. So much for my paper-saving efforts. Those cards will make their way home next Thursday, November 13.

The class is responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 43 (all)
-Reading practice book pages 132 & 133

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thanks, the week and report card options

Howdy all. Yes, I am back. Thanks for the kind emails. It's nice to know that a community can rally in times of need. My Grandma is home from the hospital. The stroke, thankfully, was actually a series of palpitations. We were able to get her home on Wednesday and arrange for a nurse and physical therapist to work with her and my grandfather twice a week. I'll keep you updated.

The note from the sub was gracious and complimentary of the kids. They did a great job in my absence, and for that I am grateful.

The Orange Folders that went home today have lots of goodies from the school. A quick overview of the notices will clue you in to the Jogging for the Arts, tomorrow's picture retakes and the See's Candies Fundraiser. There is also a new lunch menu and Reading Log (due Friday the 14th).

Our classroom representatives election will be held tomorrow. The speeches the kids submitted were sincere and thoughtful. I will post the results here tomorrow. Don't forget to vote tomorrow as well; the polls will be open from 7am to 8pm.

The kids were assigned their respective missions for our reports today. We'll be working on them over the next few weeks in class, completing them prior to the Winter Break.

This is the final week of the first grading trimester. I will be compiling grades over the weekend and completing report cards at that time. I cannot accept work from this grading period after Friday. Also, I am completing report cards electronically this year. Therefore, I will offer the option of emailing report cards directly to families, or printing them and sending them home with the kids. The choice is yours, but if I don't hear from folks I will be emailing them to save on paper.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading Practice book pages 136 & 137 (this week's spelling words can be found on these pages, as well as page 415
-Math lesson 42, pages 197 - 198 (all)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

In my absence...

The kids are responsible for the following:

Monday, 10/ 27

-Reading Log (due Tuesday 10/28)
-Pronoun Packet pages 57, 58 & 59 (started in class)
-Cursive practice A & B (also started in class)
-Reflectios practice pages 36 & 37 (strangely, also started in class)

Tuesday, 10/28
-new Literature Circle jobs due Tuesday, November 4 (from chapters 7 - 13 of James and the Giant Peach)
-Pronoun Packet pages 60 & 61 (started in class)
-Cursive practice C & D (also started in class)
-Science practice pages 30-35 (yes, also started in class)

Wednesday, 10/29
-Math lesson 41, 1-27, pages 191-193
-Cursive practice E
-Pronoun Packet page 62

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Howdy all

Well,I'm sorry to inform you all that I will be out of the classroom next week. My Grandmother, 83, had open heart surgery last week. She was sent home after seven days of recovery at the hospital, and then had a stroke. She's back in the hospital now, and I'll be leaving for Reno Saturday morning / afternoon and staying as long as I can to help her and my Grandpa.

The classroom will be business as usual. I won't be sending home Orange Folders on Monday for the simple fact that I need to prepare lesson plans in my absence before I can correct the students' work. Ellen Abelard will be here in my place. I've spoken with Julie Roberson and Lisa Smith about the Halloween Party next Thursday. The parade and classroom party are a go.

The kids will have homework Monday through Wednesday of next week, and I will post that over the weekend before I leave. For tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

-Reading Log
-study for Friday's spelling quiz
-extra credit opportunity. In one paragraph, explain what a magnet is made from. Be detailed.

Finally, student leadership speeches are due tomorrow, no exceptions.

Respectfully, Mr, Bryant

Wednesday and beyond

Howdy all. The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading Practice book pages 125 & 126 (plural nouns)
-Math 7A

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Happy Tuesday

Howdy all. We spent a great deal of time getting ourselves set up with laptops today. Each of the kids now have their own accounts and laptops to work with. We'll use them as often as possible. Today gave the kids the opportunity to begin typing their Spooky Stories for Halloween. We'll begin research on the computers later this week when the kids are assigned their mission reports. Good times abound!

Several of the kids have turned in parental consent forms that will permit them to run for Student Leadership. Those students who have turned in permission slips have until the end of the school day this Friday to submit their speeches for review.

Finally, the kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading Practice book pages 117-118 (generalizations)
-Math lesson 39, problems 16-27, pages 174-175

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thanks and the week

Howdy all. I'd like to thank each of you for taking the time to attend your child's conference last week. Conference week can be a stressful one, and we all managed to pull through unscathed. I'd also like to offer a shout out to Renee Tallman for co-chairing the Book Fair this year, and to each of the families that volunteered their time and energy in making the fair such a success.

We are back to full-day schedules!

The kids are responsible for the following today:

-Reading Log
-Reading practice book pages 121 & 122 (spelling for the week, with the complete "Boss of the Plains" list on page 415
-Math lesson 38, pages 170-171 (all)
-Orange Folders signed and returned to class

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Masai Thursday

The school was visited by two guests from Kenya today who shared their experiences about growing up in another country and the challenges they faced in gaining an education. The class was amazed with their stories of living in the African bush and crafting homes from cow poo. Honestly, it was the best assembly the school has seen in years. I would encourage families who are interested in learning more about our guests' efforts to build schools in African communities to visit their website at

www.asanteafrica.org

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 36 (1-20)
-Reflections workbook page 28
-study vocabulary for tomorrow's quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

A simple Wednesday

Howdy all. The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 35, problems 1-20, pages 158-60
-Correct Sentences grammar packet (many have already completed, but is due Friday from all.)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and conferences

Conferences are off to a positive start! Please remember that the students are encouraged to attended. Their feedback and comments about their school year are important and appreciated.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 6a pretest
-continue with Spanish California vocabulary for Friday's quiz.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and conferences

Howdy all, conference week is here and I am looking forward to spending time working with each of you. Again, I ask that everyone be extremely mindful of scheduled times, as our sessions are brief and I want use them to our advantage.

Tuesday brings us a visit to the Boom Faire. Kids will be allowed to browse and purchase books at this time. *** We have a classroom Wish List posted outside the library for those of you feeling generous ***

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due tomorrow)
-Orange Folders
-Math lesson 34 (all), pages 153 - 155
-Spanish California vocabulary (quiz on Friday)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Ember & Conferences

Howdy all. The kids were sent home with information regarding tomorrow's showing of "The City of Ember". Everyone is excited, and the film is getting great reviews. I know that many of the kids have prior obligations, but I still hope to see as many of you there as can manage.

Conferences are upon us. The schedule is listed here on the blog, and again I would ask that each of the families adhere to their times out of respect for other families and myself. We all have schedules, and I know that many of you have been incredibly flexible with jobs, etc. I appreciate your commitment to your child's education and will share as much as possible in the brief amount of time we have been given with each other next week. I ENCOURAGE AND WANT THE KIDS TO ATTEND THEIR CONFERENCES!

Just a plug for the classroom and school here...next week also brings us the Book Faire. We'll be visiting during the course of the week, and I filled out a classroom "wish list" if any of you are so inclined to help out our classroom library :)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all. The kids were sent home reminders regarding next week's schedule. Each day is a restructured schedule due to parent conferences. Also, Homework Club will not be offered next week for the same reason.

We have one chapter left in our reading of the City of Ember and will finish the book tomorrow. The class is more than interested in seeing the film, and thankfully it is playing right here in Aptos. Everyone who wants to is invited to attend the 12:20 showing on Saturday. I'm not buying, and ticket prices are $7 per person. The film is an hour and forty-five minutes long and rated PG.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading log
-Math lesson 33 (all), pages 148-150
-study for Friday's spelling quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all. The kids were shocked to learn that they wouldn't be leaving school at 12:05 today, but I think I made things easier by reminding them that next week is entirely restructured because of conferences. All of the classroom families have been scheduled, so I will remind folks to be mindful of their times.

Student Leadership opportunities were announced on Monday and information went home in the kids' Orange Folders. Interested parties must have signed permission slips to me no later than Friday the 10th, with written speeches to me no later than the 24th.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading practice book pages 109-110
-Reading log
-Math lesson 32 (all), pages 142 -144

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, the kids are accountable for the following tonight:

-Reading Practice book pages 102-103
-Reading Log
-Math lesson 31, pages 138-140,problems 1-20

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday

Howdy all, and welcome to what will be a long week. Please note that Wednesday is a full day and the kids will be dismissed at 2:05. Conference times went home on yellow paper today and can be found in the kids' Orange Folders (but are also listed here on the blog). Please contact me soon if you have a conflict with your scheduled time. The Orange Folders are full of goodies this week, so please take the opportunity to look things over thoroughly and return to school what needs to come back.

You are receiving quite a bit of graded student work this week. Again, please review materials with your child if you have questions about the content or the grade. Yes, the Native Americans quiz was a tough one, but the kids had full access to their study guides (also sent home today) during the exam.

The homework is lacking in math tonight because we worked on an investigation in class. Still, the kids are responsible for the following:

-Orange Folders
-Reading practice book pages 106-107
-Reading Log
-"Tanya's Reunion" spelling words on pages 105 & 413 of Reading Practice book

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

aquarium thanks and Friday

Thanks to all the parents who were patient and flexible with our trip to the aquarium today. It was a great time, and I know the kids will take away fond memories of discovery.

Friday brings us a spelling quiz, and a great amount of art. The kids will be putting together their ocean animal reports (reminder here for those that still need a shoe box) and we'll be binding our tribal study guides. The kids were feeling confident after their Native Californians exam this morning, so the guides were put to good use.

Friday evening is the Harvest Festival. Yes, the rumors you have heard are true...I'll be christening the dunk tank from 5 - 5:30 only! Be there, or miss out!

And, lastly, tomorrow I will be sending in the October Scholastic order. Any last minute orders need to be in by tomorrow.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday and the aquarium

Howdy all. A friendly reminder that Thursday brings us both our visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the classroom assessment for our Native Californians unit. The kids have done an amazing job creating study guides that they will have access to during the test. Still, I've gone light on the homework tonight in the hopes that they will review their efforts in the study guide as a means of preparing for Thursday. I will be collecting their completed study guides on Friday once we bind them. Thursday I will be collecting the pages they have completed in their Reflections practice book.

We will be leaving, hopefully, by 9:45 Thursday morning for the aquarium. Each student will need to bring a sack lunch. Students may choose to bring cameras or notebooks to record information about the ocean animal they are studying, but they are optional. Students will not need any money for this trip, as they will not be visiting the gift shops. Drivers and chaperones will need to be at school by 9:30. I will provide directions to the aquarium, as well as parking options for the area at that time.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading practice pages 89 -90 on nouns
-study for Native Californians quiz
-bring a sack lunch for Thursday

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and Wednesday

Howdy all. The ocean animal reports are coming along swimmingly (bad pun). Thanks to those of you who have sent in shoe boxes. If you have yet to send one it, please do so by Friday at the latest, as we'll be assembling our reports on that day after the kids have the opportunity to observe their animals Thursday at the aquarium.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 5A
-Reading practice book pages 81 - 83

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Aquarium reminders

Howdy all. This is just a quick reminder that we will be leaving school at 9:45 on Thursday for the aquarium trip. Students and chaperones will need to bring a bag lunch.

Also, for those of you who have volunteered your precious time and energy in accompanying us, can you please send me a quick e-mail letting me know whether or not you have an aquarium membership. The students are free, but we have only a limited number of adult passes. Therefore, if you have a pass, please let me know and remember to bring it along on Thursday. It will make our entry process to the aquarium an easier one.

And, again, we have a surplus of drivers. We'll be doing our best to condense our classroom into as few cars as possible. I'll have maps and parking information in class Thursday morning.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and the week

Howdy all. Please be on the lookout for Orange Folders today, as they are full of information about Friday's Harvest Festival, the Toyota fundraiser and raffle and, of course, your child's completed work.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium trip is this Thursday. We've gotten some bad news from the reservation department in that they will not allow us entry until 10:45. We have never been scheduled for such a late arrival, and the aquarium has chalked it up to demand. Our original plan, which called for a lab, has been canceled and we will now have a scavenger hunt instead. I am a bit ambivalent about the fact that we will only be allowed to spend two hours in the aquarium, but the kids will have a chance to view and observe their ocean animals that are the focus of their reports. We'll be leaving school at 9:45.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Orange Folders
-Reading Log (due tomorrow, new log in Orange Folders)
-Math lesson 29, 1-20
-Reading practice pages 86 & 87
-"Tomas" spelling words for Friday can be found on page 413 of the Reading practice book

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday and Friday

Howdy all. I do hope you've been enjoying our Indian summer. The weather has left your kids with many a smiling faces. Today was so nice that we took our Reading Buddies to the park and read for a while on the grass.
We are wrapping our Native Californian studies, and will celebrate tomorrow by creating coiled clay pots just like Cahuilla tribe we studied today. Please remember that tomorrow brings our Native Californian vocabulary quiz. Next week will bring the unit assessment on our Indian studies. The kids will be able to use the study guides they've worked on in class during the test.

Each student will need a shoebox in class for their ocean animal reports by next Wednesday.

Students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 27 (all), pages 117-118
-Native Californian vocabulary and definitions are due tomorrow

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday & shoe boxes

Howdy all. These short days fly by.
The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading log
-Reading practice book pages 69 & 70
-Math lesson 26 (all), pages 112-114

Please remember that each child will need a shoe box, or shoe box-sized box for completing their ocean animal reports next week. Boxes should be brought to school by Tuesday.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all. We're having fun with circuits still. The kids had an opportunity to work with creating parallel circuits with their tablemates this afternoon. We have only the desert Native Californian tribes to cover before next week's test. We also began work on our ocean animal reports this morning. Each student will need a shoebox, or shoe-sized box, by next week to complete their reports. If you have trouble acquiring one, please let me know ASAP.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading log
-Science practice book, pages 23 & 24
-continue with Native Californian vocabulary for Friday

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday

Howdy all. We are taking a break from the Reading book this week and focusing on science and social studies. We are still working through language / reading practice material in class, but the kids won't have any as part of their homework. Please be mindful that the kids have vocabulary words from their Reflection book this week in lieu of spelling.

Tomorrow is picture day, so please no bed head!

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 4A
-Reflections practice book page 20
-Reflections vocabulary (due Friday)
-Orange Folders

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all. Sophia's memorial is in a half an hour, so keeping in mind that many of the students are going I've kept homework light.

Kids are responsible for the following:

-Reading Log
-Reading practice book pages 64 & 65
-Reflections practice book page 17
-study tomorrow's spelling words

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday and beyond

Howdy all. Wednesdays go by so fast! With PE and Spanish, I am only seeing the kids for about an hour. The variety is a positive though!
Thursday brings us additional work with our tribe book, an investigation into lines, more work with circuits and a visit from the Banana Slug String Band! Good times.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 23, pages 100-101, all problems
-Reading practice book pages 56 & 57 (possibly 55, if it wasn't completed in class)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and conferences

Howdy all, the kids were each sent home with a conference scheduling preference form today. Please ensure that these forms are returned to school no later than Friday of this week. Also, please be aware that I run conferences a bit different from what you may be accustomed to, as I ask the kids to attend as well.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due 9/30)
-Math 22, pages 94 & 95, problems 1-20
-Reading practice book pages 53 & 61

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and beyond...

Howdy all. We got off to a rough start today with kids tired from the weekend, etc. Hopefully Tuesday brings a more respectful group to school.
Orange Folders went home this afternoon with the kids with information regarding portrait order forms for next week, Ohlone Day, a Scholastic order form and a new reading log. The next reading log is due Tuesday, September 30th. Any Scholastic orders from this catalog should be submitted by Friday, September 19. Our last order went out on Friday, so kids should expect their books by the end of this week or early next.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due tomorrow)
-Math 21, pages 90 and 91, problems 1-20
-Reading practice book page 60 (homophone spelling words)
-Orange Folders back by Friday

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

the power of Sophia

I am sure that many of you are aware now that Sophia Wardle, a Rio second-grader and all-around amazing girl, died yesterday after a long battle with cancer. The news greeted many of the students with absolute shock this morning, and I am still reeling after learning last night. The class and I had an awesome 45 minute conversation this morning about Sophia. Your children were sympathetic and insightful, many wanting to share memories both happy and sad about the passing of people and pets that they had known and loved. Many tears were shed. Sophia's brother, Quinn, is in our reading buddy class.
Mrs. Dorney prepared a letter that was sent home with each of the children today that explains in more detail what I have mentioned here, and also outlines the grief services that were made available for students and staff at the school today.
Some of the work that was planned for class today has been postponed until Monday for obvious reason.
As information comes available, I will gladly share what I know. For now, however, I ask of you all what you do best; come together as a supportive and caring community for both the kids and ourselves.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all, We've had a very nice week and will be winding down Friday with a few assessments and a documentary about the Titanic to go along with our reading of this week. We'll be finishing both The Island of the Blue Dolphins and Matilda on Friday. We'll take a week off from chapter books next week and then will begin James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl and The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due next Tuesday)
-Math 3A
-Reading practice pages 49 & 50
-continue studying for Titanic spelling quiz tomorrow
-if students are interested in ordering from the Scholastic catalog that went home last week, orders will be sent to class by tomorrow.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Hola!

The kids jumped head-first into Spanish with Mrs. Murray this morning. They did a great working on basic conversation skills. Again, we'll be working with Mrs. Murray on Wednesdays up through the Winter Break.

We're looking very good for chaperones and drivers for the upcoming Monterey Bay Aquarium trip. Thanks for getting the permission slips back to me in a timely manner. It is much appreciated.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading practice book page 46
-Math lesson 18, pages 77-78, problems 1-20
-Reflections practice book page 15

Adios, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Wow, we had an amazingly artful day. The gloom and drizzle was replaced with cave paintings and bead work, both connecting wonderfully to our current Native Californian studies. We are fortunate enough to have Mrs. McNeilly, sixth-grade teacher extraordinaire and maker of art, available to us a few times during the course of the school year to lead the class in extension projects. The class began designing beaded bracelets today that they will loom in the coming weeks.

A few parents voiced concern over the STAR diagnostics and Accelerated Reading (AR) goals sent home in yesterday's Orange Folders, and I would like to elaborate on them further. I realize that the information I share with the class does not always translate well at home. All students, in varying applications, were required to use AR during their third grade school year. Some teachers required it as literature component grade, while other teachers required it in conjunction with their literature circles. In an effort to prepare students for junior high and beyond, fourth grade and up are requiring students to maintain independent reading logs and to participate with an on-line assessment of what they have engaged with. The individual goals have been based upon their STAR assessments, which each of you have been provided a copy. The print out identifies areas of strengths and weaknesses and makes suggestions as to how to go about improving one's reading skills. Most students are able to meet their AR goal strictly from the readings we partake with in class each semester, as the literature we have chosen as a grade level is rich and engaging. If you have questions about AR's application in the classroom, I am more than happy to address individual concerns. I will definitely include AR as part of our discussions during Conference Week.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due next Tuesday)
-Math lesson 17, page 73, problems 1-22
-Reading Practice book pages 39 & 40 (The kids will need to reference the larger language text to answer these questions.)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and the week

Howdy all. We are off to a busy week. We will have two visitors this week. Tuesday will bring us an Native American art project after lunch with Mrs. McNeilly and Wednesday brings us our first of twelve visits from Senorita Murray and our Spanish studies. We began about the sinking of the Titanic today and will study the efforts of Robert Ballard, the man who discovered the wreckage back in 1985. We'll wrap up the week on Friday with a documentary that explores the wreckage! We are near finishing our reading and study of Roald Dahl's Matilda and will begin Jeanne DuPrau's City of Ember trilogy next.

The Orange Folders that went home today are full of goodies. Please take a moment to go through the papers that were returned or sent home to you. As always, please remember to initial the folder on the appropriate date and return them to school no later than Friday.

Thanks again to those of you who have donated to the classroom fund. Your support is much appreciated and I'll be sending out thank you cards shortly.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all. We've begun our tribal studies books, and will build upon them for the next few weeks as we study Native Californians. The kids are doing a great job pouring their energy and creativity into these projects, which is great since they will serve as the basis of the test that wraps the unit. The test is a few weeks off, so no worries yet.

The kids were given their first math take-home quiz today. These quizzes will serve as previews for the in-class exams. The students are more than welcome to use their text books for the take-home quizzes. Each problem correlates with a lesson number that we have done in class. The lesson number is presented in parentheses under each problem, should the kids need to reference the text for help.

Friday brings us further studies of Native Californians, as well as an electricity science experiment and the aforementioned math test. If time permits, we will also be working on the introductions and conclusions to our personal narratives.

Students are responsible for the following tonight:
-Reading Log
-Math quiz 2A

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday and beyond

Howdy all,
The Innisbrook wrapping paper fundraiser information was sent home yesterday and the kids had many questions regarding the whole process. I am trying to steer clear of these as they do not directly relate to our classroom activities. There should be contact information in the package to direct questions to. Also, thee fundraiser is completely optional. The kids should not feel obligated to participate.

The class is responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading log
-Math lesson 14, page 58, problems 1-20
-Reflections practice book, page 14
-There will be an Island of the Blue Dolphins quiz tomorrow covering chapters 11 - 18

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

late Tuesday...

Folks, I have to apologize for the lateness of this post. We switched over servers at school this year and, as a result, internet connections have been spotty at best. This needed to wait until I got home from school, which, as usual, was later than I would have liked. From my best memory, the kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Orange Folders
-Reading Log
-Math lesson 12, problems 1-20 (most completed in class)
-Reflections practice book page 13

Book orders need to be submitted no later than a week from Friday.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday and Friday

Howdy all. Sorry to be posting this so late, but my meetings in Watsonville went over schedule. Hopefully this isn't too much of an issue with folks attempting to complete their homework.

Thanks again to those of you who made it last night. Since I rambled a good deal of the time, I realized that I neglected to cover all of the schoolwork issues that I had intended to. Please look for a note in next week's Orange Folders explaining marks on papers that have been sent home.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due next Tuesday)
-Reading Practice book pages 36 & 37
-Math pp 7 & 8, problems 1-20)
-continue studying for tomorrow's spelling quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Back To School Night is here

Howdy all. The kids were sent home with reminders regarding tonight's Back To School goings on. Our starting time is 6:30. Please be prompt, as we have only 40 minutes to cover the entire school year. As it is a school event night, I am sending the kids with a less-than-average amount of homework. They are responsible for the following:

-Reading Log
-Reading Practice pages 25 & 32
-continue with "Grandfather's Journey" spelling words

Also, I will be away from school tomorrow for meetings in Watsonville. The kids have a more than capable sub for the day. I will be back in the classroom Friday.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and Wednesday

Please keep in thought that Wednesday night is Back-To-School Night for the parents. 4th - 6th grades are meeting from 6:30 to 7:10, with primary grades meeting from 7:30 - 8:10. I'll go over curriculum, routines and expectations for the school year with those in attendance.

Wednesday will bring the kids an opportunity to continue to develop their personal narrative writings. We'll review today's math test and have our second Island of the Blue Dolphins quiz. Because of Back-To-School Night, I will only be assigning a small amount of homework Wednesday evening.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading Practice Book pages 26 - 27
-Math page 27, problems 1-11
-continue studying this week's spelling words from "Grandfather's Journey"

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Happy Monday

Howdy all, and welcome to week 3. The kids were a bundle of energy today, but we had a great conversation about cultures in California. We also prepped for tomorrow's math quiz and spent the morning readying our personal narrative writings.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Orange Folders
-Math pg. 22 (1-15)
-Reading Practice book pages 30-31
-Reading Log

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday and Friday

Howdy friends. The weather was beautiful today, so the kids were a bit cranky that we were inside a room with poor air circulation. I don't blame them, as a walk to the beach would have been ideal.

We are getting into a routine in the classroom. While some of the material is taxing, their enthusiasm for the work is encouraging. We did get the opportunity to meet and spend time with our reading buddies today. Thursdays will allow us to spend some time working with Mrs. Varni's kinder class. They are amazing kids (as are we)!

The class is responsible for following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 4, problems 6-18
-Reading Practice book page 15
-Continue studying spelling words for tomorrow's quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Speedy Wednesday

Howdy all, and thanks for sending back the Orange Folders with their papers in a timely manner. It is much appreciated. If you have yet to return them, the school is asking that both the parent volunteer forms and emergency cards be sent to school no later than tomorrow.

Good news and bad. We did receive our math texts this morning, but the accompanying practice books are floating somewhere in limbo. With that, I unfortunately will need to send home the larger textbook with the kids until they make their appearance. I apologize for the extra backpack weight and the eventual complaining that will undoubtedly occur your kids.

Everyone is responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-continue studying for Friday's spelling quiz
-Reading Practice book page 8 (-er and -est endings)
-Math lesson 3, pages 13 - 14, problems 9 - 25 (students may choose to complete extra practice problems on page 21, set b, but it is not required.)
-PE agreement forms, please only returned the signed portion at the bottom

Respectfully, Mr. B

Happy Tuesday

Howdy all. Things are moving along swimmingly here in room 13. We are deep into our literature studies of Island of the Blue Dolphins and Matilda. The kids are frustrated because we do not have our new math materials yet, so we are doing much reviewing until those books arrive (supposedly tomorrow). Social studies had us discussing latitude and longitude today, as well as the four geographic regions of California.

Students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading practice book pages 6 & 7
-Reflections practice page 4
-continue studying spelling words for Friday's quiz

Just a quick disclaimer. The homework was started in class today, so many students were able to complete all or part of both their Reading and Reflections work.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Welcome to the working week...

Howdy all,
The students received their first Orange Folders of the school year. Please be on the lookout for these each week. This week's folder has the back to school packet from Rio, as well as information regarding Homework Club, lunch menus, food allergies and volunteer opportunities on campus. Please send back the folders in a timely manner. They need to be returned by Friday of each school week.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-reading log (20 - 30 minutes each day, collected every two weeks). The log will be printed on blue paper and will be sent home in Orange Folders, as it was today.
-reading practice book pages 10 & 11
-practice spelling words for Friday's quiz (words can be found on pages 9 and 409 of the practice book)

We are still awaiting the arrival of the students' math texts. We have started the program in class, but won't have materials to send home regularly until they arrive.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Another groovy day...

Wow, we are group of characters this year! The kids are already well-acquainted with each other and more than comfortable in the classroom.
We are into our second chapters of both Island of the Blue Dolphins and Matilda. The kids are actively engaged with the stories. The two books will be our primary literature studies for the first six or so weeks of school. Math will continue to review materials from late last year and assess where we need to focus our studies. Social studies has us looking at maps and mapping skills before we head off into early settlers in pre-California. We'll jump into science tomorrow and look at the equipment we'll be using during the school year and their safe applications.
I hope that each of you received the letter that I sent home with the kids yesterday. I'll be sending home a good deal of information from the school on Monday regarding insurance, after school programs, etc. Look for the bright orange folder!

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

A very nice day...

The first day of school is always an iffy one. Some kids are nervous and others are overwhelmed or over-anxious to be back. Today was heaven. The kids were respectful and kind.
I have sent home a simple one-page letter with each child that will give you each a bit of information about the remainder of this week and what to expect in the coming weeks. Please feel free to contact me with questions or concerns.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

School? Already? Really?

Howdy friends, and welcome to what is sure to be an excellent school year. We have an amazing group of students in room 13 this year and I am excited to work with each and every one of you to ensure the well being and success of your children. The first day of school is always a wacky one, so to ensure its smoothness I would ask that students come prepared to participate and cooperate with each other.

I will always provide paper for the students during the course of the school year. I will also supply a composition book, crayons, markers, glue and erasers. However, I ask that students come with the following materials and supplies each day:

- a 1 inch three-ring binder
- pencils
- one manual pencil sharpener (not electric)
- writing pen
- a refillable water bottle (of the Nalgene variety)
- a backpack
- dry erase markers and a single sock (we'll use these every day)

While I will solicit donations to the classroom fund at Back To School Night, I would ask that each student bring in a large box of Kleenex tissues during the first week of school. I thank each of you in advance.

This blog is a unique forum for families and students to communicate with each other, and I encourage input here. Feel free to peruse last year's posts, as they will give you a feel for the content and expections of the classroom. Assignments, events and projects will be posted here Monday - Thursday, so bookmark the page soon and check back daily during the school week.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Last Day

Howdy all. Tomorrow is the last day of the school year. The kids are psyched! Our morning will bring us the opportunity to complete our Monarch butterfly mural. I would encourage those of you who are stopping by the school tomorrow to check out of our. It really is quite beautiful, and the kids are very proud of their work.
I will be sending home the final green folder tomorrow that will include WWII reports and narratives, odds and ends and report cards. Comments on report cards are limited. The 6 page print out that accompanies each report card will more than adequately explain where strengths and weaknesses lie with each child.
Our "Villains in the Goldfield" movie is turning out great, but I am not quite finished with the editing process. Please ensure that your current mailing address is on file with the office, as I will be mailing each family a copy of the completed film over the summer.
Just a friendly reminder, school is dismissed at 10:50 tomorrow.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Filming the Villains!

Ok, so we have rehearsed our film a few times now, and are filming the actually play tomorrow (Friday). The kids were asked to simply wear their costumes to school. I have a few spare plaid shirts for the kids that don't have them, so no worries there. Again, I ask that folks not run out and purchase anything for our production. We have plenty of props, etc.

We'll run through a dress rehearsal first thing in the morning, and then start our filming after a short snack break. I have some trail mix....yum!

If time permits, we'll continue working on the Monarch mural. We are able to get the first coat of colors on today! The classes meandering by us while we worked were very jealous!

There are just a small handful of students still needing to submit permission slips and $10 for the KOA day next Wednesday. If you're one of 'em, please get those in ASAP.

Respectfully, Mr. B

This week

Howdy all. Thanks again to everyone attended last Thursday's Open House. It was great to see everyone!

This week is set to be an interesting one. I'll be spending some time at school tonight prepping the mural for the kids to begin working on tomorrow. If at all possible, please send the kids to school in clothes that can be dirtied. We will be using oil-based paints THAT DO NOT WASH OFF CLOTHING! If all goes according to plan, we'll finish the mural by the end of the week.

On Thursday and Friday, we'll be filming our Gold Rush film. The kids were asked to wear plaid or flannel shirts and jeans for those two days. If cowboy hats are around, by all means bring them in. Bandanas and the like are more than accepatble as well. For the ladies portraying Little Nell and Kate, dresses would be ideal. Please DO NOT go out and purchase props or supplies for this film. We can make due with what we have.

Green Folders are light again this week. I'll remind folks who have yet to return permission slips for either of next week's trips to do so ASAP. We do not need drivers for the beach trip, as we are walking, but chaperones and / or drivers would be more than appreciated for the KOA excursion. Please let me know if you'd like to come along. It's sure to be a fun day!

respectfully, Mr. B

Oh man, it's tomorrow!

Wow, the time continues to fly and the camping adventure begins tomorrow at nine. Parents who are driving should arrive at school at 9. We'll be leaving by 9:15, with our appointment at 9:45. So we'll have time for a snack and bathroom break before immersing ourselves in the nature.

Kids whose parents aren't coming along will need to bring all of the supplies and pack gear to class tomorrow morning. Please remember to bring a bag lunch as well.

Please be on the lookout for an email to all families. It should be in your mailbox by now.

The science projects were great. I applaud all the hard work and effort that clearly went into these projects.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Howdy friends

We are coming down to the wire here, and the wire is an exciting one. The kids are more than stoked about the camping trip. I'm making final arrangements with the class tomorrow and will be sending out a reminder email for the parents / victims that have agreed to come along and herd these fourth grade kittens.

Science presentations have been awesome and the class is looking forward to hearing the balance of the findings tomorrow.

The kids DID NOT receieve green folders today, but did receive permission slips for our final two trips on June 3 and June 4. The June 4th trip to KOA has a $10 fee attached to it that covers lifeguards, the main course for lunch and beverages.

And, thankfully, we are officially done with homework for the school year!

Respectfully, Mr. B

one last thing....

Please remember that science faire projects are due in class on Monday, May 19th. The kids will be sharing their findings with the class.

Have a lovely weekend, Mr. B

Camping Info

Howdy all. Before heading off to Los Angeles to pick up the school's Distinguished School Award, I wanted to post our schedule for next Wenesday and Thursday.

We'll be leaving school on Wednesday morning at 9am. Our initial appointment with the docents is at 9:45, so we'll have time to have a snack and use the restrooms. The remainder of the day is as follows:

9:45 - 12:15 - Programs begin in two groups. Parents may need to help facilitate some activites. We'll find out when we get there.

12:15 - 1 is lunch. Kids and parents will need to bring a bag lunch for this day only.

1:15 - 2:15 Nature scavenger hunt

2:30 - 8 We are on our own at this time to set up camp, play at the beach, etc. Dinner will be picked up at 6 from Pizza One, so we'll probably be eating no later than 6:30. Sheila Hurley has volunteered to pick up the pizza!

8 - 9 is a slide show facilitated by a docent that covers history and nature of the State Park

9 - ? S'mores and such.

10pm - lights out

In the morning, the bugles will blare early. I don't know this, but we'll take it easy in the morning. Jessica Jacobson has volunteered to pick up bagels and schmear for the kids. We'll eat and and then play for a while if time permits.

Docents return at 9am for a groovy art activity. We should wrap up by ten. We have two free hours thereafter to break down the camp site and enjoy the park. We need to be cleared out by noon. Again, parents may pick up their child at the park or at school at this time. Kids can stay on campus with me until 2 to prepare for the evening Open House, however Homework Club is finished after this week.

I will be picking up fresh fruit, S'mores supplies, firewood and drinks on Tuesday. If folks are interested in bring treats as well, they are more than welcome to.

Those who are camping will need the following: a sleeping bag, a tent (if you have one, if not there are plenty to share), a toothbrush, a change of clothes, beach games, sunscreen, etc. Please leave all electronics at home. No Ipods, radios, or video games. There is not a need to bring water toys, as there is not a lifeguard on duty at the beach and we will not be playing in the ocean!

The following folks have volunteered their time and tents:
Athena Wolfe w/ tent for 4
Eriko Yokoyama
Gina Guhin w/ tent for 4
Deborah Collins w/ tent for 3
John Scoppettone w/ tent for 3 or 4
Nevin Hougardy w/ tent for 4
Lisa Pepperdine w/ tent for 3
Greg Horne w/ tent for 2
Yolanda Beaudoin w/ tent for 6
Jenny Zheng w/ tent for 4
Linda Rossi w/ tent for 4
Michael Sambrailo w/ tent for 2
Mr. Hayes w/ tent for 5
Russ Jacobson w/ tent for 4
Richard Seitchick w/ tent for 4


If you have questions, email me sooner than later.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Thanks everyone!

The World War II reports were stunning. The kids did such a good job delivering the information they researched. Their pride in their work was evident. A few students asked that I connect links to sites they used in their reports for folks to enjoy from here.
I've included them here:

http://video.aol.com/video-detail/dogfights--f6f-hellcat--2-of-5/2693373833

&

www.sadako.org

Respectfully, Mr. B

World War II reminder and schedule

Howdy all. Please enjoy this weekend, but take this friendly reminder that Monday is the due date for the kids' WWII reports. I will look over the reports on Monday, and presentations / speeches will begin on Tuesday. Wednesday will be the final day to present. I randomly selected students (names in a can as hat was AWOL) to present on either day. The schedule is as follows:

Monday - reports due

Tuesday's presenters - Miles, Kolby, Berkley, Mikaela, Alicia, Sean, Jessica, Jade, Justin, Alyssa, Chas, Noah, Jason, Christopher, Maya and Zak

Wednesday - Christian, Cole, Haley, Kyora, Angela, Leah, Tom, Riley, Emily M., Emily F. and Beth

We are all very excited about these reports and the kids are eager to share their efforts. Again, kids may use notes to keep themselves on track, but may not read their reports. They should plan on speaking for about three minutes and then sharing their visual aide. Each presentation will end with questions and comments from the classroom. Each presentation will take between 5 and 8 minutes to complete after all is said and done.

Respectfully, Mr. B

5th grade placements

Howdy parents. The fourth grade team will be meeting in a little over a week to determine 5th grade classroom placements for the 2008 - 2009 school year. While I have general feel for where and I why I would like to see students with teachers next year, I am opening my email for imput from each of you. Yes, the office does offer parent forms to request placements, however I do not have access to those forms until the day we actually sort students. I would like to bypass that process and hear from each of directly and now so that I may take into consideration your concerns for the next school year. As it stands now, Mr. Kitch, Mr. Sweet and Mrs. Koue will be teaching 5th grade and there will NOT be a combination class. Think about your child's learning style and take their needs into consideration. Also, if your family knows they will not be returning to Rio, please notify the office staff and myself ASAP so that we may streamline the placement process.
I thank each of you for your time, and request that you respond to this email at jeff_bryant@pvusd.net, and NOT in the comment section of this blog.

Respectfully, Mr. B

This is our week....

Howdy all. I am going easy on the kids this week. We will be wrapping the STAR assessments this Tuesday and Thursday, with make-ups on Friday (if necessary). Kids should utilize their time this week to complete their WWII projects. They are due next Monday. A schedule of presentation schedules will be posted here on Thursday or Friday (at the latest).

We are near completing our poetry unit and will start assembling our books soon.
We are 10 lessons out from completing our math book, and then will begin an introduction to 5th grade curriculum.
We have one literature unit to complete!
We are in the exact middle of our final book study of the year, Farewell to Manzanar. It's not the kids favorite book of the year, but the material is priceless.
We begin rehearsals for our play, "Villains in the Gold Fields", next Monday. We start filming in two weeks.
Depending on the auction this Friday, our classroom mural project will occur during the last two weeks of school.

Green Folders have our camping schedule. If tyou have yet to submit permission slips and food money, please do so ASAP. I have arranged for pizza from Pizza 1 and am working with Safeway to get bagels and fruit for the morning.

This week kids are responsible for:

-Reading Log (Last one, due Friday)
-continue work with WWII and science projects

Respectfully, Mr. B

Thursday and Friday

Howdy all. We're officially done with the language portion of STAR testing, and I am happy to report that the majority of the class judged them as "easy". I never know what to think about that, but am glad the kids are feeling confident about their work. We have two more testing days, next Tuesday and Thursday, in which we will complete the math portion of the exams.

Many questions have been raised about the camping adventure to New Brighton on the 21st and 22nd. I will be sending home specific details next Monday in the Green Folders.

The kids are responisble for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math packet pages 10-5 & 10-6
-continue with science and WWII reports

Respectfully, Mr. B

Wednesday and beyond

Howdy all. We had a groovy day reviewing various graphing techniques with math and continued our discussion and work surrounding the civil rights movement.

Thursday morning brings us to our second day of language testing with STAR. We'll be working from 8:15 - 10am on this portion of the test. Please make sure the kids are well-fed and to school on time.

Kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-library books
-math packet pages 10-2, 10-3 and 10-4 (all graphing)
-continue with WWII and science projects

Respectfully, Mr. B

Tuesday

Howdy all. Day one of the STAR exams are complete. We'll complete the language portion of the tests this Thursday in the AM.
No one complained about the content this year, and several of the kids commented that the questions were "easy". Always a good sign.

We have been having quite a bit of fun with poetry in the last two weeks. For some reason, however, the kids really like to incorporate gross content into their work. I don't recall ever getting quite so many poo poems.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Math 10-1 (handout, not in the book)
-Reading Log
-continue with science and WWII projects

Respectfully, Mr. B

Happy Monday

Howdy all!
Those dreaded STAR tests begin tomorrow and will conclude a week from Thursday. This week's focus will be language arts, with next week's focus being math. I informed the kids that I would keep homework on par with what has been normal for these past few weeks. I also informed the class that I would not be testing them beyond the STARs for the next two weeks. We are ten lessons out from completing our math text, and I will conduct a cumulative assessment when those are completed. As I mentioned previously, science and social studies tests are finished for the school year (the science fair and WWII reports will more than substitute for assessments).
The Green Folders that were sent home today have permission slips for our upcoming overnight trip to New Brighton. Please be on the lookout for it and return it in a timely manner.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (our last, due a week from Friday)
-Math lesson 110 (all)
-Green Folders
-continue with science and WWII projects

Respectfully, Mr. B

Wednesday and beyond

Howdy all. In my mind, I am already out of town for the next two days. I'm leaving this afternoon and will be out of the classroom for the next two days. Mrs. Cameron will be with the kids on Thursday and Ms. Buron will be here on Friday. I apologize for not being able to schedule a single sub for both days, however there were conflicts everyone. I know that sub days can be stressful for everyone involved, so I have designed curriclum that should keep both days moving smoothly.

Just a friendly reminder...the STAR testing window begins next week and I will be testing the students on Language skills next Tuesday and Thursday and math the Tuesday and Thursday after that. Please ensure that your children are in school those four days as make-up tests are no fun at all.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 106 (all)
-library books returned to school
-continue with science and WWII projects

On Thursday night, the kids are responsible for:

-Reading Log
-Math 107 (all)
-continue with science and WWII projects

Respectfully, Mr. B

Smooth Tuesday

Howdy all. We moved from rocks to minerals today. Good times, eh? We're specifically looking at how rocks are formed compared to minerals, and the three rock classifications. The kids have a good running start on rocks and minerals. Many have offered to bring in their own collections.

This week's math exams were much better than last weeks'. The last exams were an accumulation of 100 lessons, so material was all over the board. This week's was focused on our last 10 lessons, so recollection of content was much easier for many.

Finally, we've begun our work with poetry. The kids experimented with similes today, and we had some very interesting pieces. we'll continue this exploration of verse for the next few weeks.

The kids are responsible for:

-Reading Log
-continue with WWII and science reports
-no math tonight

Respectfully, Mr. B

Monday and notes galore

Howdy all. The weeks are quickly winding down, and while it would great if the time moved by at a relaxing pace, we are finding ourselves swamped with school activities and assignments. The Green Folders sent home today are filled with information regarding school events, community events, and summer activities. Please be sure to peruse the forms at your leisure and return forms as appropriate.

****Summer School invitations may be included with your child's folder. These invitations are generated based upon the 2006-2007 STAR testing results. However, after looking over the invites, I feel them to be accurate. Summer school is by no means mandatory, so please do not feel that your child must attend. Still, with this summer's program focusing primarily on language and grammar, it is a unique opportunity to fine-tune skills.****

I will be out of the classroom on Thursday and Friday. If you need to reach me, please do so before Wednesday afternoon as I will not be checking email until next Monday.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading log (due Friday)
-Math 20A (due Tuesday)
-Green Folders
-continue with science and WWII assignments.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Thursday and Friday

Howdy all. We are continuing to explore California history at the turn of the 20th century this week. We are looking at the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge and how the Depression and Dust Bowl affected the economy. Grim stuff, but interesting nonetheless.
Friday brings us the wrap up of literature unit five. We'll be working on the Theme 5 assessment tomorrow, and wrapping up spring fluency work next week.
Friday also brings us deeper into the world of rocks and minerals. We've been attempting to grow crystals, but the process is a slow one. Hopefully we get enough grown by the end of the school year so that each child will have their own pet crystal.
We'll be enjoying a picnic lunch on Cow Hill tomorrow. If at all possible, kids should bring a bag lunch.

Folks are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due next Friday, not tomorrow)
-Math lesson 104 (all)
-continue with science and WWII reports
-Number the Stars study packet due in class tomorrow

Respectfully, Mr. B

Wednesday

Howdy all, kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 103 (all)
-continue with science and WWII reports
-bring library books back to school Thursday morning

Respectfully, Mr. B

Tuesday

Howdy all. We had a very nice today. We were able to review the process of mineral formation (heat, pressure and time), as well as discuss the manner in which minerals achieve their color. Pretty groovy stuff.
We were also able to get into early California politics and how Hiram Johnson promoted a transparent government in which the people were active participants in the decision making processes. Where did those days go? Can we get them back?
Math was an interesting assortment of decimals and fractions. Our first few pages of Farewell to Manzanar brought about a lively discussion regarding discrimination.

The class will be having a picnic on Friday up on Cow Hill behind the school. All students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch, if possible.

Students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 102 (all)
-continue with science and WWII projects

Respectfully, Mr. B

Monday and the week

Howdy all, and welcome to the seventh to last week of school. Yes, we're counting down the days at this point.

Green Folders are making their way home today. You'll notice that the work that is coming home is decreasing in quantity. It has to do with the fact that we are working on larger, on-going units at this point in the year that I do not collect until we complete. Therefore, there will be weeks where you get a surplus of returned work, and others, such as this week's and last's, that are light. I would still encourage folks to review the returned material on a weekly basis, as I will not be sending home progress reports this trimester.

Today brought us our first look and experiment with the rocks and minerals unit. Tne unit will run about three weeks before we get into waves, wind, and water as factors of weathering and erosion.

Tomorrow brings us to the final book of the year that we'll study as a class. The book, Farewell to Manzanar, was written by local author Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston, explores the struggles of a Japanese-American family during WWII.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Green Folders
-Reading Log
-Math 101 (all)
-continue with science and WWII projects

Respectfully, Mr. B

little protestors!

Howdy all. I am super impressed with the efforts of the Girl Scouts to raise awareness of the State Budget issue / crisis. Our very own Emily, Haley, Jessica and Beth were in front of the school collecting signatures after class today. They were joined by sixth grade students who had created picket signs designed to draw parent and community support! Way to go!

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due tomorrow)
-Math 19A (due tomorrow)
-Biome study guide (due tomorrow)

Respectfully, Mr. B

Short Wednesday

Howdy all. The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due Friday)
-Math 99 (all)
-library books are due tomorrow
-continue studying for Friday's land biome quiz. Study guide due that day as well.

The kids are aware, and now you are too, that they will need to submit a science fair question and hypothesis that will guide their projects next Monday.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Tuesday

Howdy all. We had fun with a smelly invisible ink project today. If the kids are interested in completing the assignment again at home, simply mix equal parts onion juice, lemon juice, and add a dash of granulated sugar. Let it dry, and then hold the paper up to a bright light. The acids in the juice will eat away at the paper, making the areas exposed to the mixture brighter than the unexposed areas! Truly secret agent stuff.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Math 98 (all)
-Reading Log (due Friday)
-continue studying for Friday's land biome quiz

Respectfully, Mr. B

Happy Monday

Howdy all, and welcome to the working week. The kids are getting antsy realising that there are but eight weeks of school left! I honestly cannot blame them, as my mind is leaning toward floating leisurely in Lake Tahoe for a few weeks.

This week brings about a change in homework and focus as the kids have been given the outlines and expectations for their science faire projects. With the WWII report information and expectations going home last week, the kids now have an ample amount of work to keep them occupied for the duration of the school year. The kids will still be responsible for math and reading logs on a nightly basis, but should focus their efforts on the WWII and science projects.

As far as testing is concerned, we will have short quizzes on material that we cover, but substantial unit tests are all but finished. The kids can expect Theme tests for the literature units as we complete them, but larger science and social studies tests are done. Math tests will continue as they have, with tests after every 5 lessons. The state STAR testing will take up the first two weeks in May. I am really hoping that these don't increase stress levels for the kids. I will attempt to keep the testing environment relaxed. We'll make cider and cocoa each morning. Testing will last 4 days, spread out over two weeks and will consist of math and language arts. The kids took their writing exams in March. You'll get results for all of these lovely experiments in aptitude over the summer.

Finally, whew, I am happy to announce that the class will be making a movie! During our STAR testing window, we'll be filming a movie on Cow Hill (behind the school) that we will premiere at the Open House on May 22nd. We'll need help with props, so I'll keep folks aprised of required goodies as we get to filming.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Green Folders
-Math lesson 97 (all)
-Reading Log (due Friday)
-study for land biome quiz this Friday. Biome study guide due at that time, but cannot be used for quiz.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Good Times

Howdy all. Thanks to the kids who brought in leaves for our study today. We learned how to classify them by the shape and edge. Very fun. Speaking of fun, tomorrow afternoon brings us our BIG SPIN assembly to honor students who excelled in academics and modeled good behavior during the second trimester. We'll be in the MPR from 1:15 - 2 if you would like to join us.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 18A
-Biome study guide cover ( needs to include title and name, and should include a color illustration that represents the subject matter.)

Respectfully, Mr. B

Hola Miercoles

Howdy all. I completely neglected to remind the kids to gather a leaves for tomorrow's science experiment. If folks have time, please collect a small lunch sack of leaves that we can use tomorrow. We'll be looking at leaves from deciduous trees only, so no pine needles please! Thanks for the last minute help. It is much appreciated.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 95 (all)
-Reading practice book pages 319 & 320 on pronouns

Respectfully, Mr. B

Tuesday Terrors

Howdy all. These kids play the meanest April Fools jokes. I think I was informed that my fly was down about a dozen times. I actually fell for it the first time. And then I was told that a few of the students were moving away at the end of the week, and then the rest were taking extended vacations next week. Such imaginations!

We began our exploratory research for WWII report topics today and about 2/3 of the class has committed to a subject matter. I'll post reminders about timeframes and expectations periodically, but these reports are being structured and written in the comfort of your homes...not in class. A few folks have raised concern about the content of the WWII reports, so I will repeat here what I informed folks of way back at our Back-To-School Night last September. The reports themselves and the subject matter that we deal with in class with our readings and literature studies are simply meant to broaden perspectives of world cutures and events. It is in no way glorifying the idea or effects of war. I know the subject matter is often considered controversial, but in light of the state of the world today, it is more than relevant.

Tomorrow is a short day. Mrs. Sawyer will also be holding her used book sale after school. All books will be a quarter.

Finally, the kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 94 (1-20)
-Reading Practice book pages 316 & 317

Respectfully, Mr. B

Welcome Back!

Howdy all. Hopefully the Spring Break fround you each some time to relax and enjoy yourselves. The kids were definitely not excited to be back at school today! Still, we'll move forward with some fun and engaging work during these last months of classes.

The Green Folders are chocked full of goodies today. Please take a moment to review the World War II report and outline that went home. With two exceptions of computer research time that will be made avilable to them in the class, these reports will be completed at home. They will be due on Monday, May 12.

Next Monday will bring information regarding the 4th grade science faire. At that time, with the two rather sizable reports / activities taking place at home, I will limit homework each night to math and a reading log for the remainder of the school year. More information will follow shortly.

The school will be holding a used book sale on Wednesday after school. All books will be a quarter!

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (in Green Folder)
-Math lesson 93 (1-20)
-Science workbook pages 104 & 105

Respectfully, Mr. B

Spring Break Extra Credit

Howdy all. I hope that you each have a restful and enjoyable break. The kids were made aware of two extra credit possibilities today that they may tackle while away from school. They are as follows:

1.) Keep a Reading Log

2.) Complete an interdependence poster to share with the class. Assignment details are on page 103 of their science workbooks.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Wednesday & reminders

Howdy all. These short weeks have us powering through material. The kids are more than anxious for Spring Break to start, and I can't fault them for it either. I hope each of you are making time to spend with family and friends.

The May 9th Auction and Golf Tournament is quickly approaching, and I know that many of you have volunteered your time and energy to ensure its success. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Classroom parent Alicia Steinhart sent a request home in the students' Green Folders a few weeks back seeking donations to help fund the class auction basket. While she has received a good number of replies, we were honestly expectly a greater response. If that information and envelope have been misplaced, I will gladly supply folks with a replacement. Please let me know via email.

I will posting a few Spring Break extra credit options for students tomorrow!

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Science WB pages 102-103
-Read Reflections textbook pages 300 - 303
-continue studying for tomorrow's water biomes quiz

Respectfully, Mr. B

Tuesday and Wednesday

Howdy all. Well, it finally happened...the class asked where the Earth came from today. The state prohibits me from sharing my opinions in regard to the subject matter, but the kids are aware of the debate between science and creationism. I encouraged them to discuss it with their friends and family members to formulate an opinion of their own.

Tomorrow brings the first grade production of "The Ugly Duckling". We'll be in the MPR between 9 and 9:45 if any of you care to join us.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 90 (1-20)
-Reflections workbook pages 74-75
-continue studying water biomes from biome book (quiz on Thursday)

Respectfully, Mr. B

Monday and the week

Howdy all. Hopefully the report cards went over well for everyone. They can be exciting, as well as a let down.
We have three days (!!!!!) until the arrival of spring break. And while we are ramping up for a break, we are still entrenched in our studies. Homework will be light for the week, but our classroom studies will be centered on biomes, math and literature.

I am not sending home green folders this week, for the simple fact that there is very little to return. I'll send everything out upon our return.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 17A
-Science WB pages 98 & 99

Respectfully, Mr. B

Thursday and Friday

Wow. We had a groovy assembly with Roc Lerum this morning. He covered aspects of friction and gravity with a unique juggling and unicycle act. A good time was had by all. Tomorrow's assembly brings us a musical performance from the Wild Rovers, a local Irish band featuring two Rio teachers.

Monday is St. Patrick's Day. The kids are invited to wear green and have crazy hair!! Woohoo! Erin Go Bragh!

Report cards go home tomorrow. With few exceptions, they are looking very good.

The kids are responsible for the following:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 89 (1-20)
-Reflections workbook, pages 72-73
-Reflections review questions 1-5 on page 292 (in textbook)

Respectfully, Mr. B

The axe falls tonight...

Howdy all. I know that several of you have voiced concerns over my using the blog to inform you of district happenings, but what is going down tonight because of the State's proposed budget cuts effects all of us. Tonight's Board Meeting (7pm at the District Office on Green Valley Rd in Watsonville) has numerous items up for vote that will dramatically change the face of PVUSD. Aside from the layoffs, of which there are many, classroom reduction is proposed to be eliminated in K-3 classes, as well as in the 9th grade core literature classrooms. This means that classroom sizes will swell across all grade levels, while fewer teachers and services will be available for students. The outlook is grim. A letter writing campaign has been enacted to address the issues at state and district levels. Our voices are powerful in number, and I would encourage those of you who are able to to write local congresspeople and delegates to inform them that they need to lobby for your children's futures. These cuts are not taking children into consideration, nor their value on the continued success of the well-being of our society.

The children are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 88 (all)
-Morse Code activity. Using page 283 in the Reflections textbook, students are asked to complete a short statement about themselves in code that identifies their full name, their place of birth (city and state), and one of their hobbies.

Respectfully, Mr. B

Tuesday

Howdy all. I am bogged down with meetings and report cards this week, so messages will be brief.
The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math lesson 87 (all)
-Reflections workbook page 71
-Green Folders

Respectfully, Mr. B

the most beautiful day ever...

Wow! Ano Nuevo was glorious today. I hope that each child and parent walked away with amazing memories of a crystal clear sky, warm sun, good friends, enormous elephant seals, a very hungry coyote and a graceful black-tipped kite.

Green Folders are on hold until Tuesday. There are no homework assignments for the evening.

Respectfully, Mr. B

"and now, the end is near...."

Yes, tomorrow is the last day of the grading period. Report cards will go home a week from then. It's an anxious time for most of us...excited about spring break a few weeks off and thinking about grades!

We wrapped our Gold Rush simulation today. The experience was engaging and gave the kids the opportunity to collaborate. The results were mixed. We had a group lose their earnings when lured by greed, and we had several groups who bet all of their earnings on the unknown and walked away as millionaires! The kids know that tomorrow brings the end assessment for the unit.

We ended our day with a visit from the drama department of UCSC. The prepped the class for the upcoming "Romeo & Juliet" performance on the 17th.

Kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log (due next Friday)
-Math 85 (1-30)
-science vocabulary due tomorrow (with in-class quiz)

Respectfully, Mr. B

Hola Miercoles

Howdy all. The trimester is winding down. The kids have been given plenty of notice about they are responsible for this week, especially in terms of assessments that will take place on Friday. Friday brings a Gold Rush / Statehood exam and a science vocabulary quiz. We'll be wrapping up our Gold Rush simulation and our reading of The People of Sparks on Thursday.

A student informed the class today that Staples is having a .50 cent sale on white board markers. The kids run through these like mad, and will use them in the 5th and 6th grades as well. Might be a good time to stock up!

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Library books due tomorrow
-Reading Log
-Math 84 (1-20)
-Science review questions 1-8 on page 236 of the textbook
-Reading practice book page 257

Respectfully, Mr. B

Tuesday

Howdy all. The kids were troopers this morning while working with a ridiculous 4th grade state writing prompt. I am frustrated by State testing in general, becuase the results are not made available to yourselves or I until after the school year ends, and are used primarily to address funding. I applaud the classroom's efforts all the same.

The students are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Math 83 (1-200
-Science workbook pages 94-95
-Reading practice book pages 251-252

Respectfully, Mr. B

Welcome to the Working Week

Howdy all, and welcome to what will surely be a groovy week. The last week of the second grading period is upon us, and the kids are undoubtedly excited knowing that only twelve weeks of school are left looming on their summer horizion. This week will bring the wrapping up of our Gold Rush and Statehood studies, our State Spring Writing samples (Tuesday & Wednesday), our final performances with SPECTRA (Friday) and a visit from the UCSC Shakespeare-To-Go program on Thursday (1:15 - 2, guests are more than welcome). Please remember that next Monday brings us our trip to Ano Neuvo for the elephant seal tour and hike. I'll e-mail chaperones and drivers no later than Wednesday.

Green Folders have information from Alicia Steinhart regarding classroom support for the May 9th Golf Tournament and Auction. Please be on the lookout for it!

Kids are responsible for the following tonight:

-Reading Log
-Reading Practice book page 250 (nearly all completed in class)
-Math 82 (15-30)
-Science vocabulary (due and quizzed on this Friday)
-Science workbook pages 96-97 (started in class)
-Green Folders back ASAP.

respectfully, Mr. B