The week...

Hello Friends, and thank you for checking in.  I hope that the weekly homework lists are allowing students to manage their time more effectively.  Leading up to the winter break, this week and next, we will be dedicating a great deal of our time to finishing up our mission reports.  The kids have been troopers as we research and write about our findings.  We have a very cool art project to accompany the  report as well!
Please keep those donations of food for Grind Out Hunger and supplies for the troops coming in.  It's great that we can support these worthwhile groups, especially during the holidays.
There will be a math quiz on Wednesday and a spelling quiz on Friday.  There will be a short quiz on the missions next week, as well as a quiz on the water biomes we have been studying.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

December 3 - 7, 2012

The week...

Howdy families, and thanks for checking in.  The kids are definitely in vacation mode!  We had a rough day, but still managed to accomplish what we set out to do.  The kids have minimal homework this evening.  Each student is responsible for math lesson 12.2, problems 1-30.  I would remind folks that the November book reports are due a week from Friday, the 30th.  Hopefully folks take advantage of some of their free time this week to get going with their efforts.

Report cards go home tomorrow afternoon.  Each student will be sent with a manila folder that contains their work and their first trimester grades.

Have a wonderful holiday,
Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  The kids are responsible for the following work today:

- Read 20 minutes or more
- RPB page 187 (verbs)
- math packet page 3
- math packet should be returned to school on Friday

As a friendly reminder, we have  spelling and math quizzes on Friday.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  Just a quick note for you today, as we ran out of time and did not get to our planners.

Homework for the evening is the same as is listed on the sheet that went home yesterday.

- Continue with math practice packet (due Friday)
- RPB p. 183 (spelling)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Our short week...

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  Today marks our foray into the second trimester.  It is hard to believe that 12 weeks have already passed!

I will be writing report cards during the week, and they will be sent home with the kids next week in their Red Folders.

We are taking a break from the math text this week and will be working with multiplication content from supplemental resources.  The kids have been given a stapled set of worksheets to complete at home this week.  The worksheets are due on Friday.

Tonight, the kids should also begin their efforts with spelling for the week.  They are also responsible for RPB page 182.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Friendly reminder

Howdy folks, and thanks for checking in.  We are needing to modify Thursday's homework to address some pretty rough math exam results from Wednesday.  We will not be working on math chapter 12, and the kids will instead be working on set c, page 249 (problems 1-13).
Also, I need to stress that tomorrow, Friday the 9th, is the final day of the grading trimester to submit work.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

The week's work...

It is my sincere hope that the week's assignments being posted on Monday help everyone manage their time better.  The kids will still be keeping a planner, and we will continue to review them in class daily.
If the image above appears too small, click on it to open it in a large window.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Awesome multiplication help for double digits!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eZ-8-UzmZo

Trenten found this video and it is amazing.  The narrator can be hard to follow, but the visuals are a definite help.

Good luck.

Trying something new

The kids will be receiving a copy of the weekly homework page in their Red Folders today as well.

The week is looking fairly mellow.  The Halloween Parade will begin at 8:15 on Wednesday for all of those who'd like to attend.  The classroom party will be from roughly 9 to 10.  Thanks to those who have helped organize and prepare for what I am sure will be a memorable day.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  The kids and I had a rather lengthy conversation this after about responsibility for one's self and self-control.  Unfortunately, there has been a spate of name calling and shoving as of late. There have been too many hurt feelings.  We are renewing our efforts at working toward a positive and collaborative school environment when the kids can thrive.  I told the kids today that I would be calling out both their positive and negative behaviors in the class.  It is not my intention to embarrass the kids, but rather to have them understand how they affect the classroom as a whole.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 minutes
- study for spelling & be prepared to turn in vocabulary
- math ch. 10 review, page 230, problems 1-20
- book reports are due in 6 days.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  Picture make up day will be happening on Monday, October 29th.  I will be sending order forms home with the kids on Thursday.

Several of the students have been remiss with their Nature Log assignments, and I am concerned about their work effecting their grades.  Nature logs are assigned every two weeks on Wednesday and are due the following day.  The logs were assigned last Wednesday, and I have only received them from half of the students, despite several friendly reminders.

The kids are responsible for the following today:

- read 20 minutes
- math lesson 10.4, page 225, problems 5-22
- continue with spelling and vocabulary studies
- book reports are due in 7 days.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Hello all, and thanks for checking in.  The kids are responsible for the following today:

- read 20 minutes
- math lesson 10.3, pages 221-222, problems 7-30
- continue with weekly spelling and vocabulary
- book reports are due in 8 days!

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  We had a pretty neat day together, and seemed to genuinely enjoy the reading group rotations.  This week will be about adjusting to new people and experiences.  I know the kids will excel in both areas.

Red Folders are light this week due to my absence last week.  I will be caught up with grading by the week's end.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read 20 minutes
- math lesson 10.2, pages 217-218, problems 10-25
- RPB pages 121 & 122
- book reports are due in 9 days, and the kids were given a friendly reminder today regarding their wise usage of time.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Hello all, and thanks for checking in.  We had a nice day, and managed to finish our third book together, The City of Ember.  The kids were very excited for its conclusion, and are eager to jump into its sequel,  The People of Sparks. 

I have a few friendly reminders to offer up.  One, the Harvest Festival is this Friday from 5-9.  Its always a good time and an easy way to support the school.  Two, the kids' book reports are due two weeks from tomorrow.  Don't let the due date creep up on you.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- 20 minutes of reading
- continue with science vocabulary
- math lesson 9.2, page 194 (7-20)
- continue studying for Native Americans quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday & the Week

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  We are back to the grind this week after our Conference Week of short days.  The kids were not excited about a full day today, so hopefully the week isn't too much of a shock for them.

We are beginning a new social studies unit this week.  We will spend our time up to the Winter Break looking at explorers and the California Mission system.  We had a lovely discussion today about how Cortes was able to defeat the Aztecs due to some of the European diseases and flus that he and his people introduced to the Americas.

We are set for drivers on Friday and I will send out another email blast later in the week as a friendly reminder.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 + minutes
- work with science vocabulary
- math ch 8 review, page 186, problems 1-20
- continue studying for Thursday's Native Californians quiz

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  We had a fun day.  The kids had the opportunity to create a pictogram this morning in the vein of Native Americans.  Telling a story without words made for some humorous interpretations.  The kids also got their first dose of the monthly classroom auction.  Bidding was lively (and thankfully not too competitive).  We will hold classroom auctions at the end of each month.
The kids worked well on their math benchmarks this morning, and will be taking a language benchmark exam tomorrow morning.  Benchmarks are not included in grades.

Today, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read 20+ minutes
- continue with spelling and vocabulary
- math lesson 7.5, page 155, problems 1-7

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  The classroom was a furnace today.  I suppose it never fully cooled down from yesterday.  We had our math lesson taping this morning with a professor from CSUMB, and it went very well.  The kids were intimidated by his presence, but worked so well with the tasks presented to them.

Today, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read 20 + minutes
- math lesson 7.3, pages 149 & 150, problems 7-25
- continue with weekly spelling and vocabulary
- problem o' the week 3B (due Thursday)

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Monday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  Sorry to post late, but I was working at a school in Watsonville today in preparation for tomorrow's math lesson taping.  If you've not submitted a video waiver (sent home last week) for your child, I would appreciate those making it back to school ASAP.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 + minutes
- math 7.2, pages 145 & 146, problems 8-22
- RPB pages 106 & 107
- begin the week's vocabulary

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  The kids are responsible for the following today:

- 20 minutes of reading
- math chapter 6 review, page 138, problems 1-20
- RPB page 91
- complete weekly vocabulary

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  We've been having a great deal of fun this week working with various electricity and magnetism experiments.  Yesterday we made compasses out of corks and needles and today we made electromagnets.  Cool stuff!
We got the go ahead for our San Juan Bautista Mission trip.  It will be taking place on Friday, February 8th.

Today, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read twenty minutes
- a nature log entry on a creepy crawly (bug, spider, worm, etc.)
- math 6.5, pages 131 & 132, problems 6-30

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  Your children are a genuinely curious bunch.  Lots of questions today about where people originated and why there are two streams of though; creationism vs. evolution.  Be prepared for questions!

The class is responsible for the following today:

- RPB pages 86 & 87
- 20 minutes of reading
- math lesson 6.3, page 126, problems 13-27
- math problem o' the week 3a

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Monday and the week

Hello all, and thanks for checking in.  Please take  close look at your child's red folder today.  Attached to their homework sheet is a video consent form that I will need back as soon as possible.  As the paper mentions, I am working with teachers from the Bay Area on improving math curriculum and instruction.  As part of our efforts, I am wanting to videotape a few lessons during the course of the year to share with them.  Your signed consent forms will allow me to include your child in these lessons (and in all likelihood they will only been seen from the back and in profile, as the camera will be set up in the rear of the room).  Childrens' names will not be included as a part of the taping.  If you have questions, please feel free to send them my way.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- Red Folders
- Video Consent Form
- RPB pages 82 & 83
- Math lesson 6.2, page 123, problems 5-30

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday, Zimbabwe, and Lice !!!

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  We were fortunate enough today to be honored by the presence of Martha and Jacob, performers from Zimbabwe.  The pair shared their culture and music with the entire school today.  The kids had a blast!  Much thanks to our very own Cox family for arranging their visit.  It made for a wonderful experience.
The class had a lice exposure yesterday, so each child was screened by a health assistant today.  We got the all clear, but an exposure notice did go home with each student.
Pictures also went home with each child today.
Weather permitting, the space shuttle Endeavor will be flying over the Monterey Bay tomorrow morning on its way to the LA Museum of Flight.  We will be climbing Cow Hill to get the best possible view of the ship.  Fingers are crossed.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 minutes
- study for tomorrow's spelling quiz
- RPB page 62
- math 5 review, page 110, problems 1-15

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  The kids and I had an interesting day as we began our studies of native Californians.  As I mentioned last week, we will be crafting rather large study guides to help us practice reading for important details.  Its not a habit the kids are used to, so we had some grumblings.  It is my hope that the process will strengthen their comprehension skills, as well as ready their confidence levels as they prepare for a test.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 minutes
- RPB pages 56 & 57
- math 5.4, p 103, problems 3-27

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Hello all, and thanks for checking in.  We had a pretty groovy morning and got to nerd out for a while discussing continental drift, how the earth has looked in the past, and how it will look in the future.  The class is science-minded, and already has a great deal of knowledge.  It's exciting for me, being a fan of the sciences.

Wednesday begins our exploration of Native Californians.  The kids will be constructing and writing a rather sizable study guide / book over the next few weeks of study.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read 20 minutes
- RPB pages 60 & 61 (week's spelling)
- math 5.3, pages 99 & 100, problems 9-25

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  Please be mindful of checking red folders, as they made their way home with the kids today.

The kids are responsible for the following today:

- read 20 minutes
- spelling / vocabulary
- math 5.2, pp 95-96, problems 12-30
- RPB page 54, if necessary

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  I hope to see as many of you as possible at tonight's Back to School event.  Mrs. Dorney will be speaking in the MPR from 6:30 to 7, and I will have the classroom open from 7 - 7:30 to go over plans for the year.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- complete weekly vocabulary
- read 20 minutes
- math ch. 4 review, page 88, 1-20

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Hello all, and thanks for checking in.  The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 minutes
- a nature log entry (composition books will be collected Thursday)
- math 4.4, p. 83, problems 8-23
- finish "If I Were a Passenger on the Titanic" writing, if necessary.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Hello all, and thanks for checking in.  The kids are engrossed with Titanic lore, and its exciting to see them so engaged in a topic.  We'll be viewing a very cool documentary on Thursday called "Ghosts of the Abyss" which follows a crew as the explore the wreckage of the ship.  It's pretty amazing.

The class had 15 minutes of time at the end of the day, as we completed all of our tasks in a timely manner.  With that, many of the kids were able to get a very healthy head start on their homework.
Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read for 20 minutes
- math 4.3, pages 79 & 80, problems 14 - 30
- RPB pp 45 & 46
- math problem o' the week (due Thursday)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday

Hello all, and thank you for checking in.  We are off to a rousing week of Titanic studies, and the kids are amped to engage with one of history's most-discussed shipwrecks.

Please take a moment to review your child's red folder.  There are several notices from the school and much returned work to mull over.  Please return permission slips as soon as possible.

Today, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read 20 minutes
- Reflections practice book page 4
- math 4.2, pages 75 - 76, problems 6-20
- return Red Folder by Thursday

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Hello all, and thanks for checking in.  Picture Day went smoothly!  Class went well also.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight;

- read 20 minutes
- math 3.4, page 63, problems 6-18
- just a friendly reminder that Friday brings the second quiz for Island of the Blue Dolphins.  The quiz will cover chapters 9-16.  Unlike the first quiz, the kids will not be able to use their books.

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy folks, and thanks for checking in.  Please remember that tomorrow is Picture Day here at Rio.  Please make sure that the kids remember their order forms (extras are available in the office, should you need another) and that the kids don't have bed head!  We are one of the first groups in at 8:30.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read 20 minutes
- math 3.3, page 60, problems 11-27

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday, and a short week

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in.  Just a reminder that the kids will not be bringing home red folders on short weeks, nor will there be spelling words.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 minutes
- Reflections practice book, page 7
- math 3.2, pages 55 & 56, problems 11-26

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in.  The picture forms did indeed get sent home with the kids today!

Tonight, all are responsible for the following:

- read 20 minutes
- math ch. 2 review, page 42, all problems
-study for tomorrow's spelling quiz

I will be collecting Reading Practice Books and composition books Friday for grading purposes.

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy, and thanks for checking in.  I neglected to send home the portrait day order forms with the kids today, and I apologize for the oversight.  They will be sent home on Thursday.
We held our second class meeting today, and I am impressed with the insight the kids are offering up and sharing, especially regarding issues around cooperation and time management.  They are quickly noticing that wasted time leads to work following them home and infringes on their own time.

The kids are responsible for the following today:

- 20 minutes of reading
- math 2.4, pp 35 & 36, problems 11-27
- nature log entry (prompts have been written by the kids in the composition books.)

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in.  We received notice that our school photo day will be next Thursday, September 6th.  Our photo time slot is 8:30.  I will be sending order forms home with the kids on Wednesday.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 minutes
- RPB pp. 30 & 31
- math 2.3, p. 33, problems 9-20

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

A fresh, new week

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in.  Please be sure to check your child's red folders today for returned work and notes from the school.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read 20 minutes
- RPB pp. 26 & 27
- math 2.2, p. 29, problems 10-30
-red folder returned no later than Thursday.

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Thursday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in.  Today was writing-intensive, and it was refreshing to have the kids willing to share their efforts with the classroom so early in the school year.  Quick reminders that we have both a spelling and math quiz tomorrow.  If you have not signed off and returned the weekly red folder, please make sure it comes to school on Friday.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- read for 20 minutes
- reading practice book page 5 (if not finished in class)
- math ch. 1 review, page 22, all problems

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

First Class Meeting

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in.  Each Wednesday afternoon, the kids and I will hold a class meeting to share in our successes and concerns.  The meetings will generally be student-driven, although I will also utilize the time to share information regarding expectations and reinforce positive practices.  Today's meeting, for example, was heavy on "housekeeping" issues (i.e. expectations for the school year).  Future meetings will usually address student concerns and accomplishments.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- 20 minutes of reading
- reading practice book, page 11
- math 1.4, page 17, problems 6-18

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in.  We had another very nice day, and the kids seemed to genuinely enjoy themselves!

Thanks to those of you who took the time and energy to fill out the paperwork requested by the school. Those of you still needing to complete them, please do so by the week's end.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- read 20 minutes
- math lesson 1.3, pages 12-14, problems 9-25
- reading practice book (RPB) page 10

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Happy First Day

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. As expected, we had a wonderful first day. Please take the time to review daily planners and the weekly folder. The kids are responsible for the following tonight: - study spelling & vocabulary - math 1.2, pages 8-10, problems 10-24 - read for a minimum of 20 minutes Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and the week

Howdy Friends, and thanks for checking in. We are off to a rousing 4-day school week in which we will complete literature studies (the Green Glass Sea & James and the Giant Peach) so that the kids may use them for any last minute AR needs. In regards to studies, we will begin an introduction to 5th grade science curriculum. The fifth grade science is complex, so we are getting a head start with a few explorations of body systems. We learned quite a bit about skin today! I will gladly accept any work through Friday of this week. The kids have done an admirable job turning in work, so there should be few lingering assignments to fret over. I need to ask that folks be mindful of this looming deadline, as we have a very short turnaround time to complete report cards this trimester. If the kids have submitted them already no worries, but I am collecting both the reading practice book and social studies practice book on Thursday. Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Buddy Cards

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Several of the students have been asked to take home thank you cards to complete for their kindergarten reading buddies. Please ensure that these cards make the return trip to school Friday morning. Much thanks, Mr. Bryant

Monday and the week

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. These last few weeks have us engaging in a great deal of writing and reflection as to what our year has been like, and where we are headed. I tend to get sentimental as we wind down. Homework, for all intensive purposes, is done. We have only a few academic obligations, and it is simply easier to complete them as a group than to send them home. We will begin our efforts on a school mural in the next weeks. The space we've been given to work with is massive, and the kids are more than excited to exercise their inner Picassos and O'Keefes. If you have any spare exterior paints lying around the house, we can surely use them. Please email me should you have any paint supplies we could use. If you've not submitted your KOA permission slips and funds, please do so ASAP so that we may balance our accounts and pay the needed parties. Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy folks, and thanks for checking in. We are looking forward to an exciting evening at Aptos High tonight when the kids share their choir skills for the masses. Their final rehearsal today was amazing! As tonight's performance will involve a great deal of time, the kids have not been assigned homework. Still, they should be prepared to turn in their week's vocabulary and take their year-end science exam. Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. The kids are responsible for the following tonight: - continue with James vocabulary for the week - Saxon math 65, begins on page 303 - RPB pp 372 & 373 Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. Thanks to all of you who made it out this past Thursday night for our Spring Open House. The kids have worked hard this year, and were anxious / proud to share their accomplishments with you. This Thursday night brings our Spring Concert at Aptos High School. The choir performances begin at 5, and our grade level will be singing at 7. Students are asked to wear a white shirt and black / dark pants. We are sharing our California reports during the course of the week, as presentations have been lengthy and engaging. Graded efforts should make their way home next Monday. We have begun our final literature effort together, and are revisiting the genius of Roald Dahl. The kids and I are devouring James and the Giant Peach. Such fun. We have a few assessments this week. Today, the kids took their final math exam. Friday will bring their year-end science test. We reviewed its content last Thursday with a rousing Jeopardy game, and the kids took study notes to prepare themselves with. The test is closed-book. The class will also have a vocabulary quiz on Friday (covers section 1 of James and the Giant Peach). The kids are responsible for the following tonight: - James vocabulary - RPB pp 376 & 377 Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. The kids have a little bit of writing to take care of tonight as they continue their efforts with their respective California report topic. They should be working on a body paragraph that contains a strong topic sentence and is supported by three well-described details. Please check your email for a survey regarding the end-of-the-year KOA event, as the cost has risen. We continue our STAR testing efforts on Thursday, and will be tacking the math section. Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and the STAR

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. We are off and running with our week of STAR testing. We'll cover language arts through Tuesday and then jump into math on Wednesday and Thursday. The kids were great with their efforts today, and it is my hope that we off to a strong week. Please remember that I am not assigning daily homework this week, but the kids will be responsible for working through some of their California reports at home. We have done research on their respective topics in class, and our writing efforts will begin tomorrow. Information on the report and its components will be sent home with the kids tomorrow. Jogging for the Arts is this Friday. Our Cabrillo College trip is a week from Friday. We currently have one chaperone, and are in need of at least three. We are traveling by bus, so no need to worry about the size of your car. Also, please ensure that permission slips are returned sooner than later. Also, the Rio Reporter, a pet project of mine, has been added to the school's website. Check it out, as it features the efforts and appearances of several of our class's students. Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Howdy folks, and thanks for checking in. Sorry about not having an update yesterday, but our network went down and left us in the dark until this morning. Hopefully it did not inconvenience anyone. Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following: - math 27.2, page 603 (1-11)(Yes, we did skip a lesson.) - complete all spelling and vocabulary for Friday Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. The kids are responsible for the following today: - Math 26.3 - finish practice STAR test - continue with spelling / vocabulary. Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday

Howdy folks, and thanks for checking in. We had a pretty rough day, as it seemed the kids were still in weekend mode. Please check the Monday Folder for several important notices / forms that need to come back to school.

You might notice a math test in your child's folder today. I made a mistake in calculating the answers for questions 15 & 16, which should have been "about 23" and "about 11". I have already sent these home with the kids, and will be crediting each child an additional two points to compensate for my error. My apologies for any confusion or stress over an incorrect grade.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- Monday Folders
- Math 26.2 (all)
- RPB pages 331 & 332

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. The kids should have their science projects finalized today for sharing tomorrow. They need only to turn in their presentation folders. Other than that, they will need to complete math 25.5 (and they got plenty of time in class to work on it) and finish up vocabulary and spelling.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. We had a very productive day. The kids and I discussed the Holocaust for a good 30 minutes, and the conversation was quite powerful. They were asking about the background of the novel we are reading and why the Jewish people of Denmark were being harassed by the Nazis. We explored the ideas of anti-Semitism, genocide and Auschwitz. We didn't reference any photographs or archival footage, and instead discussed our collective understandings.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 25.4 (triangles)
- vocabulary
- continue with science project

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. There appears to be some confusion regarding this week's spelling, and I already cleared up the students' understandings. The kids are NOT RESPONSIBLE for spelling sentences this week, only vocabulary definitions and parts of speech. They have too much on their respective plates with finishing up science projects efforts.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 25.3
- weekly vocabulary
- continue with science projects

Respectfully,
Mr. Bryant

Happy Monday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Feels nice to be back in the classroom after my absence. The kids were great today, and we accomplished a great deal. Monday Folders have our schedule for the week, and we have quite a bit on our plates. I was able to check in with each of the kids today regarding their science projects, and it appears as if things are moving along well for the majority. As a friendly reminder, the projects are due in class this Friday!

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 25.2
- RPB pp 316 & 317
- Monday Folder
- keep at science projects

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

The week...

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. As predicted, I will be out for the remainder of the school week. I am putting the final touches on my thesis for San Jose State and submitting my efforts on Friday. Thank you for your patience and understanding with my absences. I am available by email should you need to contact me.

Homework for the week is listed below:

Tuesday -
- math 24.2, pp 535 - 536 (all)
-RPB pp 296 & 297

Wednesday -
- math 24.4, pp 541 & 542 (all)
- RPB pp 292 - 293

Thursday -
- math ch. 24 review, p 548 (all)
- RPB pp 294 & 298

Please note that I will be expecting science hypothesis and procedure statements on Friday of this week. Presentation folders will go home with the kids on Wednesday.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday and Friday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. This will be my last post prior to the Spring Break, so I'd like to wish you each a peaceful and happy holiday.

The kids and I, with two exceptions, have discussed and approved science projects. I'd encourage folks to not procrastinate with these. I will provide the kids with presentation folders prior to the Spring Break, as I do not want folks spending money on fancy presentation boards (and we don't have space for them in the classroom).

Remember, if you'd like to join us for the talent show or award ceremony this week, their times are as follows:

Talent Show is Thursday afternoon from 1-2 in the MPR.
Award Ceremony is Friday afternoon from 1-2 in the MPR.

By Friday, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math ch. 23 review on page 528
- story edits resubmitted
- science practice book unit on rocks and minerals completed

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and Science Help

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. I wanted to offer assistance to the students who are struggling in identifying topics to work with for their science projects. I would encourage folks to visit:

www.sciencebuddies.org

On this site, the kids will be guided through a questionnaire that will hopefully lead them to topics of interest. If kids did not turn in their questions today, please make sure that we have questions in on Wednesday to approve. I want to make sure the kids get off to a good start before disappearing on our Spring Break.

Other than their investigative questions, the kids will need to take care of the following tonight:

- math 23.5 (1-7)
- continue editing short stories

respectfully, Mr. Bryant

The week...

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Lots happening during this final week prior to Spring Break. We have guests from Save Our Shores, the school-wide talent show and the Big Spin to contend with this week.

The focus of our week will involve finishing up our Hiroshima studies and fine - tuning a writing effort. Homework will be light, as I expect the kids to be devoting their efforts to working with their science projects.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 23.4
- Monday Folders
- story edits
- compose a scientific question to experiment with

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy folks, and thanks for checking in. I completely neglected to post yesterday, and apologize for any inconveniences it might have caused.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- math 23.3, p. 519, # 1-5
- finish story cubes drafts for Friday's editing session

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and beyond

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. We had a fairly rough day, and the kids were full of energy coming off of the three day weekend. Hopefully you were each able to get some rest and stayed dry.

The kids may or may not have discussed this with you yet, but we have begun our World War II studies. We'll be looking at several perspectives as we navigate our exploration of the topic. We'll look at the effects of the bombing of Hiroshima, the German occupation of Denmark and the American efforts in constructing atomic weaponry. The material can be heavy, especially as the kids attempt to wrap their heads around the reality and consequences of war.

Wednesday brings our third language benchmark of the year. I'm sure the kids will do well.

Homework will begin to take on a different form this final trimester as the kids begin to work more independently with long-term projects. Information regarding science projects will go home on Friday. California research projects will go home in mid-April.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 23.1, page 513 (all)
- problem o' the week
- continue with story cube rewrites for Friday's editing session
- begin exploring ideas for science projects

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy folks, and thanks for checking in. The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- math 22.5 (1-3)
- finish spelling and vocabulary for Friday's due date

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Keeping it simple today, and the kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- math 22.4, pp 495-496, problems 1-26
- RPB pp 265 - 267
- continue with spelling and vocabulary

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. The kids were great today with their new seating assignments and the rain did not seem to put a damper on our work together. The kids are tackling some difficult math assessments this week, and they made it through the first round unscathed! Social studies is hitting on the topics of discrimination and prejudice, so conversations have been amazing as the kids wrap their heads around the concepts.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 22.3
- science practice book, pages 126 - 129 (most completed in class)
- RPB page 274 (again, most completed in class)
- continue with spelling and vocabulary.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and the week

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. Mrs. Nigh had a great day with the kids today while I worked on math curriculum. Quite an invigorating way to start the week.
So great to see a good number of you at Saturday's Annual Dinner / Auction. the new venue is amazing, and the company was A+. Fun to see everyone enjoying themselves!
Report cards are now in the possession of your children. Please pay close attention to the comments and effort marks, as they are very detailed.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- report card envelopes signed and returned to school
- math 22.2, pages 489 - 490, problems 1-22
- RPB pp 270 & 271
- begin work with the week's spelling / vocabulary sheet

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday and Friday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. We had a beautiful day, and the kids produced some amazing writing this morning. We'll be putting together an anthology of our writings this trimester!

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 21.5 (only 6 problems!)
- finish vocab and spelling for tomorrow's quizzes

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. The kids and I had a nice day exploring the properties of minerals, taking some extremely detailed biome notes on the tropical rain forest and continuing to work with graphing coordinate pairs. So much for a short day.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 21.4
- RPB page 260
- continue with vocab and spelling

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. I have to offer out a few words of praise regarding today's state writing assessment, as the kids were focused and produced some amazing work. We have a great deal of fun with our writing assignments, so it was extremely rewarding to see them apply their skills with such success. Sadly, we won't see their results until late summer when the state mails everyone their CST scores :(

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 21.3
- RPB pp 251 - 252
- continue with spelling / vocabulary

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and the week

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. We are off to our first week of the final trimester. Kids know to expect report cards on Monday the 12th.

Please check over today's folders for returned assignments, as well as vocabulary, spelling and math assignments for the week.

Tuesday brings our State Spring Writing. We'll begin promptly at 8 to ensure that the kids have the time required to complete the writing.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- weekly folders
- math 21.2
- RPB pages 255 & 256

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Sorry to be posting late, but I was held up by a few meetings after school. Tomorrow brings us our first day of Saturday Night Activity presentations, and we are all looking forward to learning from each other!
Tonight, the kids should working on completing the following:

- finish Saturday Night activities
- problem o' the week
- math 20.3 (1-22)
- finish interdependence poster (if necessary)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and beyond

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. Please check your child's Weekly Folder, as there is much information regarding the week.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 20.2, problems 1-28
- Life in the Gold Rush writing
- Completed Great Horn Spoon packets are due tomorrow
- continue with Saturday Night Activity

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday and Thursday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. The kids should be continuing with their Gold Rush projects tonight, as well as working on math 20.1 (page 441, problems 1-8).

If you have the time this evening, we'd love to see you at our Second Annual Family Literature Night. The festivities kick off at 6:30 in the MPR.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Attack of the Sugar Monsters!

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. As promised, the last 30 minutes of our day was set aside for sugar and general zaniness. Didn't take long for the sugar to kick in.

The kids should continue their efforts with their Gold Rush projects, as well as complete math 18.5, page 404, problems 1-4.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday, and the short week

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. I sent home an informational letter with the kids today in lieu of their Monday Folder. Please look over the sheet, as it contains testing and project information as we wrap our Gold Rush studies. Homework will be light this week and next as the kids work on their Gold Rush projects.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 18.4, pages 401-402, problems 1-25
- begin Gold Rush Saturday Night activity.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in.
The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- math 18.3
- vocabulary due tomorrow
- finish Horn Spoon postcards and menus

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- Math 18.2 (1-26)
- Science WB pages 94 & 95
- problem o' the week due tomorrow
- continue with vocabulary

Regards, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Despite the rains, we had a great day. We had a great discussion regarding the difference between adaptations and accommodations. Lots of questions about evolution, so be prepared for inquiring minds. (We're a public school, so I took the scientific approach.)
I also need to relay how impressed with how well the class is handling our work with fractions. I know that they have been craving harder work, so it is great to see them step up to the challenge.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 17.6
- problem o' the week 16
- science WB pages 92 & 93
- continue with weekly vocabulary.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. There seems to be a stomach bug running around campus, so please be mindful of random symptoms. We had a good number of students out of class and school-wide today.
I'm running off to SJSU for classes tonight, so please pardon the brevity of this note.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- math 17.5 (1-30)
- vocabulary
- Monday Folder

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. Lots happening with our Gold Rush studies and statehood.
Friday will bring some biome artwork and tackling another round of mining. The kids have done very well with their testing this week, with excellent grades in both literature and math.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 17.4, pages 377 & 387 (all)
- vocabulary is due tomorrow
- California Studies Weekly essay "Living the Hard Life of a Goldminer"

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Another very nice day, and much gold rush fun! We'll embark on our second round of mining on Thursday, and the kids are anxious to match their wits to earn their share o' scratch.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 17.3, page 375, 1-20 (might be a stretch for some, as time ran thin near the day's end).
- Reflections WB p. 64
- continue with vocabulary
- problem o' the week due in class tomorrow

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. We had a much improved day over Monday, and everything went smoothly. Our first round of gold mining went well, and was a little cut-throat as teams staked their claims and jumped others.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 17.2, page 373, problems 1-21
- Reading Practice book pages 224 & 225
- problem o' the week
- continue with vocabulary for Friday

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Monday and the week

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. A rough first day back from a glorious weekend. The kids really seem to be keen on pushing each others' buttons as of late. I'll be sending a mass email to the families in the next few days expressing my concerns, and will be speaking with the parents of our key players individually as well.

Please take a peek at the Fifth's Disease notification that went home in today's folders, as we had an exposure last week in the classroom.

Tuesday is Crazy Hair Day!

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- Monday Folders
- Math 17.1, page 371, 1-12
- weekly vocabulary

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday & Friday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Today felt rushed, as I only had the kids for the first two hours of the day before choir and rotations took over. Still, we managed a great deal. The kids did gangbusters on their mid-year language benchmark!

Congratulations to Zach J. and Lauren who did a fantastic job today representing the classroom in school-wide spelling bee.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 16.3, pages 353 & 354, problems 1-19
- science practice book pages 86 & 87
- weekly spelling and vocabulary is due tomorrow.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, and thank you for checking in. I would like to extend a heart-felt thank you to everyone who helped make yesterday's trip to Ano Nuevo a reality. It was, quite simply, the best trip I've experienced there. Hopefully the kids were able to relay their experiences with you, as we witnessed births, mating, and the amazing (albeit humorous) territorial disputes amongst the males. A special thanks to the drivers and chaperones who accompanied us on this memorable day.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- continue with weekly spelling & vocabulary
- math 16.2, page 351, problems 1-13
- reading practice book pages 216 & 217

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

A beautiful day...

Monday and Tuesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. You should have each received an e-mail regarding tomorrow's trip to Ano Nuevo, and will be receiving similar information in your child's Monday folder. If you have questions, feel free to drop me an e-mail.

Student are receiving progress reports and yearbook order forms with their Monday folders today.

Tonight, the students are responsible for the following:

- math 16.1, page 349, problems 1-20
- Reading Practice Book pages 220 & 221
- Maria Isabel vocabulary and spelling sheet due Friday

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday and Friday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Last call to folks who have yet to submit their permission slips for next Tuesday's trip to Ano Nuevo. There are only a handful of kids who need to turn them in, and it would be terrible to miss this amazing trip! Please turn them in folks.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- math 15.5, pages 337 & 338
- finish weekly vocabulary
- science practice book page 83

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Wednesday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Sorry to be posting late, but I just had the pleasure of sitting through a couple hours of talent show auditions. Wow, we have some amazingly talented students! Announcements regarding talent show participants will be shared during next Monday morning's assembly.

Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- Math 15.4, page 335
- problem o' the week
- Reflections workbook page 60
- continue with weekly vocabulary

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Tuesday and beyond

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Weekly Folders went home with the kids today and they are packed to the gills with returned work. I took a few days over the winter break to get caught up grading, and what you are receiving is the bulk of that effort. There are a few stray papers that will be completed by the week's end, as I will be sending home progress reports next Monday.

Thanks again to those who have volunteered their time for next week's Ano Nuevo trip. We are set with drivers. For the few students who have yet to submit their permission slips and $5, please do so no later than Friday.

The kids are responsible for the following tonight:

- math 15.3, page 333, all
- weekly vocabulary
- Weekly Folder

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Thursday

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in.

We are having a very pleasant week as we acclimate ourselves back into our routine. Gold Rush studies are going gang-busters and our new literature selection is a hit.

Homework tonight is minimal, as we need to work in greater depth with a few math concepts prior to the kids attempting them on their own. With that, they should focus on completing the assigned Reflections practice book pages ( 47 - 57, exclude 49 & 54), as they will be collected tomorrow.

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant

Happy 2012!

Howdy all, and thanks for checking in. Hopefully the new year has brought you each peace and health.

We are back to business as usual in the classroom. The kids were a mixture of weary excitement today, and it was fun to see everyone back together again. As my email from Monday stated, I did send home permission slips with each of the kids today for our Ano Nuevo trip on Tuesday, January 24th. For some reason I wrote the trip as taking place on the 12th on the slips, but the kids have hopefully corrected my mistake. We are set with drivers, but each student will need to bring in $5 with their signed permission slip to cover the cost of admission and parking. Gotta support those State Parks!

I am not sending folders home with the kids until next Tuesday, and they are bursting at the seams with returned materials. It is nice to be caught up with all of the grading. I will sending home progress reports a week from Monday.

We are moving into our studies of the California Gold Rush with social studies and literature. We are also beginning a new science unit on ecosystems and biomes. A very time of year is in store for us all,as much of our studies are highly-interactive!

Homework is on the light side this week as we acclimate back to our routine. Tonight, the kids are responsible for the following:

- math 15.2, pp 329 - 330, problems 1-19
- Ano Nuevo permission slip
- Reflections practice books will be collected on Friday. Student are responsible for pages 47 - 57 (but may omit 49 & 54)

Respectfully, Mr. Bryant