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Showing posts from 2011

Over the Winter Break:

-Reading: Read an "on-level" chapter book over the break. Bring the book into school with you on Monday, January 9th to write a Book Review about it in class. -Math: If you still haven't made it into the prestigious One-Minute Club, then keep on practicing those multiplication facts using flashcards, websites, and worksheets. -Reminder: 4th graders ski and snowboard for FREE at Sipapu! Just bring a copy of your first marking period progress report for verification. See the link or call 800-587-2240 for more info. -Geo-Bee: Our class Geography Bee winners and alternates should study and prep for the TCS school-wide bee on January 13th. The Friends of TCS have generously provided some great prizes for the finalists and school-level winner. Our school winner will go on to compete in the state-level bee in Albuquerque on March 30. The New Mexico winner and their parents get an all-expense paid trip to Washington, DC to participate in the national bee in May! Last year's N

For Wednesday:

-History: Finish up all the steps on your report so it's ready to hand in on Wednesday. Practice reading it out loud once or twice to someone in your family so you'll be ready to present it to the class. PLEASE remember to bring in all the library and classroom books you borrowed for this project. -Secret Santa gift exchange will be at about 1:20. Please bring in the wrapped, un-named gift for the person whose name you drew. Parents are invited, and students are welcome to bring in a healthy snack to share during the gift-giving. We'll sing Christmas carols with some of the other classes in the Embler Gymnasium at 2:00. -Geo Bee: Today we had the final rounds of our class-level Geography Bee. Congrats to our semi-finalists Josh, Miel, J. Ryan, Lachlan, Grayson, Kelden, and alternates Kaili and Nicky. On January 13, these students will compete against the semi-finalists from grades 5-8 for prizes and geographic glory in our School-Wide Geo-Bee!

For Tuesday:

-History: Finish up steps #4, 6, 7, and 8 on the yellow checklist. Due to the disruption of the early dismissal today, I'll allow the class an extra day to work on this project if necessary. The reports are now due on Wednesday, but students may hand in and present their reports on Tuesday if they're ready.

Early Dismissal Monday 1:00

-The District has called an early dismissal today for all Taos Schools due to the approaching winter storm. Please pick up students at 1:00, and help us spread the word to notify other parents if you can.

Over the Weekend:

-History: Complete the second part of Step #3 on your checklist - edit and revise the RD. Add new information. Expand your paragraphs. Then, begin Step #4 - writing the final draft.

For Friday:

-Math: SL 5-9. -History: If you finished your RD, complete the first part of Step #3 on your yellow checklist. Make sure the place where you decide to put your rough draft is cool and dark so that it cures properly, and safe from the dangers of pets and younger siblings. -Secret Santa: Students will draw names Friday for the Secret Santa gift exchange which we'll have in class next Wednesday, December 21. Please limits gifts to about $10. Participation is optional.

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 5-8. -History: Finish up the 5 paragraph rough draft of your biography report. I'll check those Thursday in class. Length should be about 3 to 5 full pages.

For Wednesday:

-History: Keep working on Step #2 on the yellow checklist - writing your rough draft. Try to write two good, solid, detailed paragraphs tonight. Apply what you learned today about paragraph structure in your writing, and remember the "Hamburger Paragraph" model. For review, see the "How-To Write a Great Paragraph" link.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 5-7, and teach your mom or dad how to do lattice multiplication. -History: Use your outline and your notes to start writing your rough draft. See step #2 on your yellow checklist. -Spelling: There's no spelling list this week so you'll have more time to work on your Revolutionary Biography Project.

Over the Weekend:

-History: Finish up your research and reading on the Revolutionary Biography Report. Then, make an outline to plan your 5 paragraph essay using the format we discussed in class. Use the outline format sheet and your yellow checklist step #1 to help in your planning. Outlines are due Monday.

For Friday:

-History: Research, read, and take notes on your Revolutionary Biography project. Students should use at least 4 sources of information including books, websites, encyclopedia entries, and/or magazine articles. -Spelling: Study for the quiz.

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 5-6 -History: Read and take notes on your biography report. -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz.

For Wednesday:

-History: Research, read, and take notes on your Revolutionary Biography project.

For Tuesday:

-Math: Finish both sides of the pink multiplication practice sheet (2 digit x 1 digit, and 3 digit x 1 digit). -History: Research, read, and take notes on your Revolutionary Biography project.

Spelling Words 12/5/11

1. monarchy 2. democracy 3. outline 4. rough draft 5. paragraph 6. topic sentence 7. supporting details 8. conclusion 9. edit 10. revise 11. bibliography 12. biblioteca (library) 13. tarea (homework) 14. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

Over the Weekend:

-History: Find information and read about the person you chose to do your Revolutionary Biography report on. Use the books you checked out from school, the Taos Public Library, and websites. Ask your parents to help in your research. You'll get more information about the specifics of the project on Monday.

For Friday:

-Math: SL 5-4 -Spelling: Study for the quiz. -History: Show a parent your blue Revolutionary Biography info sheet. Choose 3 Revolutionary-era people who you'd be interested in studying for this project. Use the list on the blue sheet for names, or check out the American Revolution (people) link for more ideas. -Reading: If you were absent today, read up to p. 199 in Storytown of "Justin and the Best Biscuits in the World." Use the Storytown E-Book link, then go to Theme 2, Lesson 7, Main Story.

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 5-3 -Spelling: Study for the practice quiz. Written work due. -Math Club will meet from 3:00-3:45.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 5-1 (p. 85), and deliver the Unit 5 parent letter.

Spelling Words 11/28/11

1. punctual 2. tardy 3. reluctant 4. taut 5. resounded 6. propaganda 7. boycott 8. immigrant 9. unfortunate 10. Declaration of Independence 11. sueno (dream) 12. alegre (happy) 13. On the warpath

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 4-9 and 4-10 (p. 87 & 89). Review Unit 4 skills for the test (decimal place value to the thousandths, adding and subtracting decimal numbers and money, measuring with cm and mm, missing number problems in addition, subtraction, and multiplication.) -Ski Clubs forms and payment are due Wednesday. -Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, Reading Club will not meet this week.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 4-8. -Reminder: Wednesday is the last day to hand in Ski Club forms and payment. -Correction: Wednesday is a full-day of school at TCS . I had been telling the class that it's a half-day, but I was mistaken.

Over the Weekend:

-Basketball: Our class team has made it to the the final championship game in the ADN 4th grade tournament! Game time is 11:00 on Saturday at the Arroyos School Gym. Players should be there at 10:30. -4th graders ski and snowboard free all season at Sipapu! Just bring your most recent progress report and get a free lift ticket every time. Sipapu opening day is Saturday, November 19. Call them at 800-587-2240 for more info. -Math: Multiplication test #15 will be on Monday - another chance to earn your "African Lions" dvd set if you haven't yet. Keep practicing those x facts!

Fun Friday!

-Last week, 4th grade achieved a goal of hitting 85% for the class average in a 3 minute, 50 problem multiplication fact test! To celebrate, we're having a Fun Friday tomorrow: swimming at the TYFC in the morning, movie and popcorn in the afternoon. Parents are invited to come along if you'd like to help chaperone the swim. We'll leave school at about 9:50 a.m. and arrive at the pool by 10:15. Parents can join us for the walk or just meet us down there. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and $2 for pool admission. -Study for the Friday spelling quiz. -Our class basketball team has won two straight in their first tournament of the season! Today's game is at 5:45 at the Arroyos del Norte Gym. Players should be there by 5:30. Go Hawks!

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 4-7 -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz. -Thursday is our Thanksgiving lunch. Parents are invited to come in and have lunch with the kids. 4th grade lunch time is 11:25-11:55. -Reminder: The last day to turn in raffle tickets is Friday.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 4-5 (p. 79) -Science: Tuesday is your very last chance to hand in your take-home circulatory system quiz if you didn't hand it in today. Remember, you can use your anatomy coloring packets and the blue fact page to help. -Our first 4th grade basketball tournament of the year tips off this evening at 7:00 at the Enos Garcia School Gym. Players should be there at 6:30. Many thanks to Coach Tomas Tafoya for all of his effort in organizing and coaching our team. I know it's going to be a great season. GO HAWKS!

Spelling Words 11/14/11

1. legible 2. independent 3. withdraw 4. deposit 5. revolution 6. disguise 7. petition 8. loyalist 9. desayuno (breakfast) 10. almuerzo (lunch) 11. cena (dinner) 12. There was never a good war, or a bad peace. –Benjamin Franklin

Over the weekend:

-Math: SL 4-4 (p. 77) -Science: Complete the quiz on the circulatory system. You can use your anatomy coloring packets and the blue fact page to help.

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 4-3 (p. 75) -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the quiz. Take a practice quiz at home. -Math Club is CANCELED for Thursday this week. -Taos Feeds Taos has set up a box for non-perishable food donations in each class at TCS. Please donate if you can.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 4-1 (p. 71), and deliver the Unit 4 parent letter. -Literature circle group: The knot activity assignment is due for Mr. G.

Spelling Words 11/7/11

1. sanctuary 2. attentive 3. colonists 4. French and Indian War 5. quarrel 6. capture 7. decimal 8. tenth 9. hundredth 10. thousandth 11. viento (wind) 12. nieve (snow) 13. Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise. –Benjamin Franklin

For Friday:

-Spelling: Study for the quiz. -Math: Practice the x facts for timed test #10. -Ski Club info packet went home with students today. Forms and payment are due on November 23. -Mr. G.'s Literature Circle (Due Tuesday): Cobble’s Knot Challenge Maniac Magee was given the ultimate challenge to prove himself – he faced the infamous Cobble’s Knot. Hundreds of people had tried to untie it, but only Maniac had the patience and skill to accomplish the feat. Challenge: Make a knot that would be a worthy opponent of Maniac himself! You will be using an online resource to find step-by-step instructions on how to make all different kinds of knots. Use as many or as few types of knots as you wish; your end goal is to make your knot as difficult to untie as possible. Internet Resource: www.2020site.org/knots/ When all of your knots are complete, we will have an Untying Face-Off! Checklist: ____Use the rope provided. ____Browse the internet resource to different kinds of knots to use ____Make y

For Thursday:

-Math: Review Unit 3 material for the unit test which will include x facts to 81, factors and multiples, map scale, true or false number sentences, using parentheses, solving + and - word problems, and beginning algebra (34 - A = 8 solve for A, etc.) -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 3-11 (p. 65), and practice your x facts for Timed Test #9.

Spelling Words 10/31/11

1. crisis 2. crucial 3. responsible 4. folklore 5. neighbor 6. contradict 7. veteran 8. artery 9. vein 10. valve 11. cuentos (stories, folklore) 12. venado (deer) 13. Hace frio. (It’s cold.) 14. When the going gets tough, the tough get going.

For Friday:

-Math: SL 3-8 (p. 59) -Spelling: Study for the quiz. -Reading: Several students did not complete and hand in their Superfudge chapter summaries or Book Review/ Comprehension questions today. Friday is you last chance to hand in these very important assignments.

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz. -Math: Practice the multiplication facts up to the 12's for Test #7. -Reading: Define the 5 words in your "New Word List" at the end of your chapter summaries, write the Superfudge Book Review, and answer the 4 comprehension questions as fully as you can. Use your novels to go back and review when you need to.

Spelling Words 10/24/11

1. Halloween 2. eerie 3. oxygen 4. carbon dioxide 5. red blood cells 6. white blood cells 7. plasma 8. platelets 9. atrium 10. ventricle 11. capillaries 12. exchange 13. brujo/bruja (witch) 14. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) 15. Blood is thicker than water.

Over the weekend:

-First quarter progress reports went home with students today. -Math: Practice the multiplication facts. Fact test #6 will be on Monday. -Reading: Read Chapters 8 and 9 in the novel Superfudge (p. 95-132), and write a good chapter summary for each.

For Friday:

-Math: Study Links 3-6 (p. 55) -Spelling: Study for the quiz. -First quarter progress reports will go home with students on Friday.

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz. -Math: Practice the multiplication facts. -Math Club meets on Thursday after school from 3:00-3:45.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 3-5 (p. 53). -Field Trip: On Wednesday the class will be taking a field trip that combines art and biology. Our first stop will be at the Sol Feliz Farm off of Witt Road to tour a local organic vegetable farm and learn about the science and history of agriculture in Taos. From there, we'll head over to the Stables Art Gallery (near the TCA) to check out the Seed 3 exhibits and participate in an art activity led by Anne Costanza and Mandy Stapleford. Parents are invited to come along and help chaperone if you're available. We'll leave TCS at 9:00, and return at about 12:45. Students should bring a snack and a water bottle, as we won't have lunch until we return to school. There is a transportation charge of $3 per student for those kids who didn't pay the the one-time $35 bus fee on our last field trip. -Reading Club will meet Wednesday after-school from 3:00-3:45.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 3-3 and 3-4 (p. 49 and 51), and practice your multiplication facts. -Field Trip Wednesday: On Wed., October 19 from 9:00-1:00, the 4th and 1st grade classes will be taking a trip to the Sol Feliz Farm in Canon and to the Seed art show at the Stables Gallery. Parents are invited to come along and help chaperone. I'll send home more info about the trip tomorrow.

Spelling Words 10/17/11

1. destination 2. cooperate 3. biography 4. accuracy 5. library 6. catch 7. caught 8. buy 9. bought 10. bring 11. brought 12. calle (street) 13. listo/ lista (ready or smart) 14. Don’t bite off more than you can chew.

Over Fall Break:

-Reading: Spend 20 minutes or more each day reading a book, newspaper, or magazine of your choice. Keep track of your daily reading on your Fall Break Reading Log. -Math: Practice your multiplication facts using flash cards, fact triangles, websites, or printable practice sheets. -Gym Bleachers Fundraiser: Sell $5 raffle tickets to help the Friends of TCS raise money to buy bleachers for the gym. Envelopes went home today with students that contain all the info. -Believe it or not, Friday was the last day of the first marking period. First quarter student progress reports will go home on October 21. -Have a safe, fun Fall Break! See you on October 17.

For Friday:

-Math: Complete the yellow multiplication chart, filling in all the blanks. Use the table on the other side to check your work. -Spelling: Study for the quiz, unless you got a 100% on the practice quiz. -Individual student photo retakes will be done on Friday for students whose parents request them. Parents, please send a note in tomorrow if you'd like a retake.

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work due. Study for the practice quiz, and be sure to know the meaning of each homophone on the list. -Math: Practice the multiplication facts using a chart, flash cards, or math websites. We'll have our first timed test on Thursday. -Math Club will meet Thursday after school from 3:00-3:45.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 3-2 (p. 47) -Bring in your TCS Library books on Wednesday to renew or exchange. -Reading Club meets Wednesday after school from 3:00-3:45. Thank you parents for picking kids up on-time after tutoring! -Math Club will meet Thursday after school from 3:00-3:45 for the following students: Ry, Daisy, Max, Cody, Sakura, David, Emree, Lauren, and Andrew.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 3-1 (p.45). Also, deliver the Unit 3 parent letter.

Spelling Words 10/3/11

1. factor 2. product 3. homophone 4. clothes/ close 5. break/ brake 6. buy/ by 7. hear/ here 8. right/ write 9. sum/ some 10. whole/ hole 11. would/ wood 12. there/ their/ they’re 13. peek/ peak 14. mail/ male 15. (your own pair of homophones) _________ / ________ 16. Money burning a hole in your pocket

Over the weekend:

-Reading: Spend at least 20 minutes reading each day over the 4-day weekend. Keep track of what you've read on your DEAR Log Sheet. -Happy Rosh Hashanah, and have a great San Geronimo Day! See you Monday.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 2-9 (pages. 39 AND 40) -Reading Club will meet after school on Wednesday from 3:00-3:45. Parents should pick students up at 3:45 outside at the bus turnaround area. Reading Club includes: David, Emree, Lauren, Sakura, Andrew, and Cody.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 2-8 (p. 37) -Tuesday is Picture Day. -There's no spelling list because of the 3-day week. -Invitations to our Wednesday after-school Reading Club went home today. Math Club will meet on Thursdays. Those invitations will go out next week, since there's no school this Thursday.

For Friday:

-History: Finish the US Constitution essay questions that you started today in class. -Spelling: Study for the quiz.

Wednesday Field Trip!

-The bus will be leaving at 8:20 Wednesday morning for our hiking field trip. Don't be late - students who miss the bus will spend the day working in Ms. Baker's class. See the green take-home letter or the "Field Trip Info" blog post below for reminders on what to wear and take with you. For Thursday: -Spelling: Written work due, and study for the practice spelling quiz. -Math: SL 2-7 (p. 35) -Reminder: Parent Open House is on Thursday, September 22 at 5:30 in grade-level classrooms. We'll have two rotations for parents so you can visit more than one classroom if needed: 5:30 to 6:00 pm and 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. Please plan to attend this once-a-year event.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 2-6 -Remember to bring in your permission slips and bus fees for the Wednesday field trip if you didn't hand yours in today.

Spelling Words 9/19/11

1. Autumn Equinox 2. Constitution 3. amendment 4. Bill of Rights 5. wilderness 6. conifer 7. contagious 8. solemn 9. cringe 10. character 11. abuelo/ abuela (grandfather/ grandmother) 12. tio/ tia (uncle/ aunt) 13. The bigger they are, the harder they fall.

Field Trip Info:

-On Wednesday, September 21st, the class will be taking a hiking field trip on the Rio Santa Barbara trail into the Pecos Wilderness near Peñasco. We’ll hike up along the Middle Fork of the RSB and have a picnic lunch in a large meadow near the trail. It's about 4.5 miles round trip. Students should be prepared for the elements and wear sturdy sneakers or hiking boots, pants, and a warm layer on top as it will be chilly up there in the morning. They should also bring a small backpack with their own lunch, a water bottle or two, and a rain jacket (rain may be in the forecast for that day). Like all the other classes at TCS, we’re asking parents to pay a one-time $35 field trip fee that will cover bus transportation for all the trips and activities that we’ll be taking this year. You can make checks out to Taos Charter School. Cash is accepted. If you can’t pay that amount at this time, please send in $5 to cover this trip and pay the remaining $30 later in the year. Parents are in

For Friday:

-Math: Complete items 3, 4, 5 on the Range, Median, Mean exercise. You can use a calculator to find the mean. -Spelling: Study for the Friday quiz.

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work due. Study for the practice quiz.

For Wednesday:

-Parents fyi: District schools will be closing early on Friday for Homecoming Day, and TCS will be on a regular full day schedule. So, the afternoon buses will be like a wacky Wednesday schedule, with no bus 24 and no transfers, and only buses 7 and 14 going to the Youth and Family Center. -Math: SL 2-4 (p. 29) -Upcoming Field Trip: Next Wednesday, September 21 the class will be taking an all-day hike on the Rio Santa Barbara Trail near Penasco. I'll send home all the info and permission slips with students later this week.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 2-3 (p. 27) -Reminder: Parent Open House is on Thursday, September 22 at 5:30 . Please plan to attend this once-a-year event.

Spelling List 9/12/11

1. maximum 2. minimum 3. range 4. mode 5. median 6. accelerate 7. your 8. you’re 9. erosion 10. plateau 11. Taos Charter School 12. arriba (up) 13. abajo (down) 14. Beauty is only skin deep.

For Friday:

-Spelling: Study for the quiz. Congrats to Emree, Chloe, Caitlin, Miel, Kaili, and Lachlan who all aced their practice quizzes today and do not have to take the Friday quiz! -Math: Study Links 2-1 (p. 23), and deliver the Unit 2 parent letter. Corrected Unit 1 tests went home with students today

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work due. Study for the practice quiz.

For Wednesday:

-Math: Get ready for the Unit 1 Geometry Test by reviewing p. 88-100 in the SRB.

Spelling List 9/6/11

1. hurricane 2. mountain 3. novel 4. fiction 5. non-fiction 6. improvement 7. are 8. our 9. hour 10. laugh 11. Albuquerque, New Mexico 12. joven (young) 13. viejo (old) 14. Break the ice

For Friday:

-Spelling: Study for the quiz. -Grammar: Use the links to help you practice for the There / Their / They're quiz.

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 1-7 (p. 15) -Spelling: Written work due. Study for the practice quiz. Remember, students who get a 100% on the practice quiz do not have to take the Friday quiz.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 1-6 (p. 13) -Nine students still haven't brought in their signed TMSD lunch paperwork: Zoey, Lauren, Ryan K., Romeo, Kelden, Trempealeau, Max, Jesus, Andrew. I sent home extras with those students today. Parents, please sign those forms and return them to school as soon as possible, even if your child doesn't eat school lunch. These forms are required by the District. Feel free to write "n/a" in the income box if you wish. Thanks!

Spelling List 8/29/11

1. latitude 2. longitude 3. hemisphere 4. elevation 5. there 6. their 7. they’re 8. labor 9. queasy 10. deprive 11. gullible 12. Me llamo _______. (My name is ______ .) 13. estudiante (student) 14. escuela (school) 15. When it rains, it pours.

Over the weekend:

-Math: Study Links 1-5 (p. 11), if you didn't finish it in class on Friday. -Creative Writing: Complete the final draft of your "One Summer Day" essay if you didn't already finish it and hand it in Friday. -Have a GREAT weekend! See you Monday.

For Friday:

-Math: Study Links 1-4 (p. 9) -Spelling: Study for the quiz.

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work due, and study for the practice quiz. -Creative Writing: Finish the rough draft of your "One Summer Day" essay if you didn't finish writing it in class today. Minimum length is one full page (if you skip lines on the RD, minimum length is 2-sides). Students will have time to proofread, edit, and write the final draft in class on Thursday. Parents, for this one assignment, please resist the urge to proofread your child's writing. Thanks, MB

For Wednesday:

-Math: Study Links 1-3 (p. 7)

For Tuesday:

-Math: Study Links 1-2 (p. 5), and deliver the Everyday Math parent letter.

Weekly Spelling and Vocabulary Routine

1. A new spelling list comes out every Monday. 2. We discuss the meaning of each word in class. Students should take notes on the definitions and keep them in their Spelling Journal. 3. Written assignment (due every Thursday): A.)Practice spelling each word by writing it 5 times in your SJ. (Twice for the weekly saying.) B.) Use each word by writing a creative sentence that shows you understand the meaning of the word. The sentences can be funny or fictional. Please make them interesting to read. C.) For the Spanish words, do the best you can to write simple sentences in Spanish. If you need extra help with those sentences, ask a family member, Mr. Bonner, or Senor Ruybal some time during the week before Thursday. There are Spanish translation websites posted on the class blog as well. 4. On Thursday, I'll check your written spelling work, and we’ll have a practice quiz. If you get 100%, you do not have to take the Friday quiz. 5. On Friday we’ll have

Spelling List 8/22/11

1. sum 2. difference 3. geometry 4. privilege 5. improvise 6. geography 7. northeast 8. southeast 9. southwest 10. northwest 11. tu (you, friendly) 12. usted (you, formal) 13. nosotros (we) 14. “as the crow flies”

NMSBA Results

-Parent copies of your child's NMSBA scores from last spring will be sent home with students today. Please take some time to read the reports and discuss them with your son or daughter. Let me know if you have any questions.

First day! (and first assignment)

-The first day of school flew right by today. The first homework assignment is for students to deliver the packet of school documents to their parents to read and fill out. The deadline for returning all the forms is Monday, August 22, and I'll be collecting them in class until then. The three new students already have all of their paperwork handed in.

See You Wednesday Morning!

Hello to all the incoming 4th grade students at Taos Charter! I hope you've all have had a fantastic summer break. I really enjoyed mine too, but I'm glad to be back working in the classroom and excited to kick off another school year with this new group of kids. School starts Wednesday, August 17th at 8:15 AM. Supply lists are available in the office or at http://www.taoscharterschool.org (and there's a basic list posted on this board below on the right.) It's not necessary for everyone to have all their supplies on the first day. Pencils, folders, and composition books are the most important items. Until then, get outside, have some fun, and make the most of your last days of break. I'll see you bright and early on Wednesday!

Have a Great Summer!

It's been an excellent year. I've really enjoyed working with all the creative, diligent, kind-hearted, smart kids in this group. I'll miss seeing you all every day! Please email me a schedule of your baseball/ softball/ soccer games (mbonner@taoscharterschool.org), and I'll come see them if I can. Over the summer, keep your skills sharp and get ready for Mr. Jones' class by continuing the D.E.A.R. habit of reading for at least 20 minutes every day. Practice and build your math skills using links like Math Playground and IXL.

For Thursday ( the last day of school!) :

-Field Day for grades K-4 is at Kit Carson Park from 10:30-2:00. Parents are invited to come down and join the fun! BYO lunch, or enjoy TMSD hot dogs. I'll give out final progress reports and student awards at the park at about 1:45. Parents can pick up students down there at 2:00. Otherwise, kids will ride the bus back up to TCS for dismissal at the normal time. -Bring in your signed field day permission slip and $3 bus fee if you haven't yet.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 11-3 (p. 237) -Bring in a backpack or a cloth/ paper grocery bag to school so you can pack up your papers and school supplies to take home. -Bring in your signed field day permission slip and $3 bus fee if you haven't yet. -I'm missing some of my own books from our classroom library. Please look around at home and bring in any books that you may have borrowed. They're usually marked "Bonner" or "TCS 4th" on or inside the cover.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 11-2 (p. 235) -Reading: Read p. 182-203 in "Holes." Write a chapter title for each chapter you finish.

Over the weekend:

-Reading: Read pages 145-176 (or further) in the novel "Holes." Write a title for each chapter you finish. -Overdue Books: Eben, Isaiah, Jacob, and Matthew still have library books checked out. Please return them on Monday, or pay a $25 replacement fee.

For Friday:

-Math: SL 10-6 (p. 227) -Overdue Library Books: The following eight students still have TCS Library books checked out - Eben(3), Isaiah, Jacob, Joseph, Leandro(2), Matthew, Quinn(2), and Tiana. Please bring those books into school on Friday to avoid a $25 replacement fee per book.

Over the weekend:

-Field Trip Monday: Don't forget that we'll be hiking at Wild Rivers near Questa on Monday, leaving at 8:15. Bring 2 water bottles, lunch, sunscreen, and dress for the weather. Parents, please pick students up at TCS at 3:30.

For Thursday:

-Career Projects can be brought to school on Friday (or on Monday if you got an extension). -Bandelier: Be at school no later than 8:15 to catch the bus. Remember those permission slips and bus fees if you haven't handed them in yet. The forecast is for mostly sunny skies, and a high of 65 degrees in Bandelier on Thursday, so dress accordingly.

Field Trip Info:

-Information and permission slips went home with students today for the Bandelier trip on Thursday and the Wild Rivers hike next Monday. Please return the signed, 2 sided slip to school as soon as possible. The Bandelier bus fee will be $8 per student. The Wild Rivers trip will cost $4 per student. Please send those fees into school as soon as possible. -Career Project: Step #7 - work on your posterboard and start practicing your 5-7 minute presentation.

Spelling List 5/9/11

1. Anasazi 2. Ancestral Pueblo 3. cliff dwelling 4. cistern 5. petroglyph 6. kiva 7. sipapu 8. viga 9. archeologist 10. artifact 11. pottery shard 12. cavate 13. remedy 14. delirious 15. A rolling stone gathers no moss.

Over the weekend:

-Career Project: Steps #6 and #7 -- do your interview, and start planning & putting together your posterboard. Students who finish early can start presenting on Tuesday. -Our class field trip to Bandelier National Monument will be on Thursday, May 12 from 8:15 to 5:00. I'll send home more info on Monday. By the way, the blog photo above shows Frijoles Canyon in Bandelier where we'll be exploring!

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 9-9 (p. 211) -Career Project: Steps 5 and 6 on the checklist. Interviews should be completed by the weekend so you'll have time to plan and put together your posterboard presentation. -Thursday tutoring will be from 3:00 to 3:45. This week we'll focus on the career projects. If you need extra help with this, be sure to bring in all of your project materials in to school. Bring a snack for yourself, or something to share if you can. This will be the last after-school tutoring session of the year.

For Wednesday:

-Career Project: Keep going on steps 4 and 5 on the checklist. -Successful hike today: The ENTIRE class made it allllll the way up to the lofty, 8400ft summit of Devisadero Peak today! This is the first time in 6+ years of taking classes on that trail that the whole group actually made it all the way. Way to go 4th grade! I'll try to post some pics of your rugged ascent soon.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 9-8 -Career Project: Continue researching the career, and move on to step #5 on the yellow checklist. Friday would be a good day to set up your interview if possible, as you'll be out of school for an in-service day. -Tuesday hike on Devisadero Trail: Wear sturdy sneakers or hiking boots with socks. Bring a backpack with your lunch, a snack, and water. Parents are welcome to join us and help chaperone. Meet us at the trailhead a little after 10:00. We'll return to school at around 2:15. Please bring $3 to pay for bus transportation.

Over the weekend:

-Math: SL 9-7 (p. 207) -Career Project: Continue working on steps 3 and 4 on the checklist. -Upcoming field trips: Tuesday, May 3 - Climb Devisadero Peak from 10-2. Thursday, May 12 - Bandelier National Monument. Monday, May 16 - Hiking at Wild Rivers near Questa. Parents, I'll be sending home information about all three of these trips.

For Friday:

-Math: SL 9-6 (p. 205) -Spelling: Study for the quiz. -Career Project: Steps #3 and #4 on the yellow checklist. -Explore WOOGABOO in the links. Username: mbonner Password: bonneroo Check out the blog updates by Taos ski patroller Dave Hahn as he leads a group of climbers up Mt. Everest in Nepal! Ask a question or join in the discussion if you want to!

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work due. Study for the practice quiz. -Career Project: Start step 3 on the checklist -- doing some research, taking notes on the career you chose to study. -Track your screen-time survey.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 9-5 (p. 203) -Career Project: Step #2 on the checklist. Narrow your 6 choices down to 2. Discuss this with your parents. -Flower orders are due Wednesday. -Ultimate frisbee: Wednesday after school from 3-4 in the Embler Gym.

For Tuesday:

-Math: Give the survey on SL p. 196 to 5 people. We'll compile the results in class on Tuesday. -Career Project: Brainstorm a list of 6 careers you'd be interested in studying for your project.

Spelling List 4/25/11

1. career 2. local 3. national 4. global 5. interview 6. inexpensive 7. mislead 8. foreign 9. Muslim 10. mosque 11. pillar 12. Koran 13. Don’t cry over spilled milk.

Ms. Erin's List 4/25/11

/oi/=oi in I. and M., oy in F. oil coin join moist point soil spoil ten/der/loin clois/ter boy joy soy an/noy en/joy em/ploy

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 9-3 (p. 199) -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the quiz. -There will be no Thursday after-school tutoring this week.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 9-2 (p. 197) -Wednesday is the last day to hand in the food survey form that Dr. Mcadam gave the class on Monday.

Spelling List 4/18/11

1. destiny 2. desolate 3. innocent 4. guilty 5. urban 6. suburban 7. rural 8. comer (to eat) 9. Yo como. (I eat.) Tu comes. (You eat. - friendly) Usted come. (You eat. - formal) Ustedes comen. (You all eat.) El/ ella come. (He/ she eats.) Ellos comen. (They eat.) Nosotros comemos. (We eat.) 16. It’s always darkest just before the dawn

Ms. Erin's List 4/18/11

Blends 1. bland 2. draft 3. crisp 4. twist 5. frond 6. tromp 7. blunt 8. trust 9. crept 10. trend Contractions are not = aren’t who is = who’s

For Friday:

-Get ready for our final day of testing: NMSBA Science sessions 2 and 3. -On Friday afternoon from 1:30-2:30, we'll be swimming at the TYFC to celebrate the completion of all this standardized testing! Students will need to bring a swimsuit, towel, and $2 for pool admission. Parents should plan to pick students up at the TYFC at 2:45 on Friday, NOT at school.

For Thursday:

-Get ready for NMSBA Writing sessions 1 and 2. -Thursday tutoring is from 3:00 to 3:45. -On Friday afternoon from 1:30-2:30, we'll be swimming at the TYFC to celebrate the completion of all this standardized testing! Students will need to bring a swimsuit, towel, and $2 for pool admission. Parents should plan to pick students up at the TYFC at 2:45 on Friday, NOT at school.

For Tuesday:

-Get ready to take NMSBA Math 3 and Science 1. Bring a healthy snack to eat in between tests.

For Monday:

-Math: SL 8-6 and 8-7 (p. 185, 187) -Here's our latest NMSBA schedule for next week: Monday: Math 2 Tuesday: Math 3, Science 1 Wednesday: No testing Thursday: Writing 1 and 2 Friday: Science 2 and 3 -Sipapu is still open for skiing this weekend, and 4th graders still ski for free!

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 8-3 (p. 179), and fix any of the items you missed on SL 8-1 and 8-2. -We'll resume NMSBA testing on Thursday morning with Reading Test #3. Math Test #1 will be on Friday.

For Tuesday:

-Reading Test Session #2 will be on Tuesday morning. Testing night assignments: Get some exercise and fresh air after school, eat a healthy dinner, get a good night's sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, and be at school on-time tomorrow.

Over the weekend:

-Science: Finish up your report if you didn't hand it in today. -New Mexico Standards-Based Assessments begin on Monday with Reading Test #1. We'll be testing from 8:30 to about 10:30 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday next week. The following week (April 11-14), we'll be testing Monday through Thursday. Please be present, pleasant, and on-time on those 8 testing days. See "Bonner's Test Tips and Strategies" sheet for test-prep ideas and test-taking pointers!

For Friday:

-Science: Steps 9, 10, 11, 13 on the green checklist. Completed reports are due on Friday. However, if you fell behind on the report, and you feel like could use a couple extra days to finish up, then you can hand it in on Monday. I'd much rather have you hand in a GREAT report on Monday that you're really proud of, than hand in a mediocre one on Friday. I won't lower your grade if you choose to wait until Monday to hand it in. -Spelling: Study for the quiz.

For Thursday:

-Science Report: Steps 7, 8, 9 on the green checklist. Revise and edit the RD. Start writing the FD. -Spelling: Written work due. Study for the practice quiz. -There is not after-school tutoring on Thursday this week.

For Wednesday:

-Science: Steps 4 and 5 on the green checklist. RD is due on Wednesday. If you have extra time, start gathering photos, graphs, or charts to enhance your paper. -There will not be after-school tutoring on Thursday.

For Tuesday:

-Science: Steps 2 and 3 of the green checklist. Use your outline to start writing the first few paragraphs of the RD. -Parents, the class is running very low on Kleenex and white copy paper. If you're able to donate some boxes of tissue and/or a ream or two of copy paper to our class supply, it would be much appreciated. Thanks.

Spelling List 3/28/11

1. season 2. replenish 3. trouble 4. patient 5. cooperative 6. flexible 7. igneous rock 8. sedimentary rock 9. metamorphic rock 10. hablar (to talk) 11. Yo hablo. (I talk.) 12. Tu hablas. (You talk.) 13. Usted habla. (You talk.) 14. Ustedes hablan. (You all talk) 15. Ella habla. (She talks.) 16. Ellos hablan. (They talk.) 17. Nosotros hablamos. (We talk.) 18. When in Rome, do as the Romans.

Ms. Erin's List 3/28/11

Final /ch/ = tch after a closed vowel Final /ch/ = ch after a consonant or double vowel 1. catch 2. clutch 3. itch 4. scratch 5. stretch 6. sketch 7. speech 8. mulch 9. quench 10. scorch 11. perch 12. ranch

Over the Long Weekend:

-Science: When you complete your reading and research, and you feel you have enough information to start planning and organizing your report, go to Step #1 on the green checklist - writing an outline. Use the format we discussed in class. You have an example in your folder. Remember, outlines do not have to be written in full-sentence form. Outlines are due Monday. If you have extra time after you finish the outline, you can move on to begin steps 2 and 3 on the green sheet: writing the rough draft.

For Thursday:

-Science: Read and take notes on your research topic. (Continue blue checklist step #5) -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the quiz. -Thursday tutoring will be from 3:00 to 3:45. -There's no school on Friday for Parent-Teacher Conferences. I’ve already scheduled meetings with a number of you, and I meet with some parents fairly regularly, so conferences are not mandatory for all students. If I haven’t contacted you and you’d like to meet, please email me at mbonner@taoscharterschool.org or call me at 751-7222 ext. 221 to make an appointment.

For Wednesday:

-Science: Step #5 on your blue checklist. Research, find information, read, and take notes on your report topic. You should use at least three sources for your report: one book, one magazine or encyclopedia article, and one website.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 7-5 (p. 153) -Science: Step #4 on your blue project checklist. Use pencil and have a back up topic just in case. I'll approve topics on Tuesday. -Third marking period report cards went home today with students. Parents, please sign the green slip to verify that you received the report, and send it back to school with your son/ daughter on Tuesday.

Spelling List 3/21/11

1. probability 2. certain 3. likely 4. unlikely 5. impossible 6. eliminate 7. equation 8. compare 9. contrast 10. calle (street) 11. vecino (neighbor) 12. Take the bull by the horns.

Over the weekend:

-Math: SL 7-4 (p. 151) -Science: Steps 2 and 3 on your blue project checklist. -Report cards will go home with students on Monday.

For Friday:

-Spelling: Study for the quiz. -Science: Choose a general field of science that you're interested in studying for a research project (see blue checklist, item #1 for more info).

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 7-1 (p. 145) -Reading: Finish the spring break book review that you started in class today. Due Tuesday.

Spelling List 3/14/11

1. famous 2. infamous 3. accumulate 4. fact 5. opinion 6. peasant 7. elite 8. conquer 9. voyage 10. Vernal Equinox 11. deportes (sports) 12. baloncesto (basketball) 13. Do onto others as you would have them do onto you.

Ms. Erin's List 3/14/11

/j/ = ge after con., or open vowel 1. age 2. charge 3. huge 4. page 5. large 6. stage 7. gorge 8. chal/lenge 9. e/merge 10. ex/change 11. sub/merge 12. ram/page

Over the break:

-Reading: Read an on-level chapter book of your choice of at least 100 pages. Bring the book into school with you on Monday, March 14th to write a book review in class. -Have a really fun, safe Spring Break! See you on the slopes!

For Friday:

-Spelling: Study for the quiz. -Reading: Read and write chapter summaries for any chapter of Everything on a Waffle that you may have missed. Summaries are due Friday. -Field Trip! On Friday morning the class will be taking a trip to the Harwood Museum to tour the collection and participate in an art activity led by Anne Costanza and the museum staff. Parents are invited to come along and help chaperone. The bus will leave TCS at 9:30 and return to school at about 11:40. The bus fee is $3 .

For Thursday:

-Math: Review for the Unit 6 Test. Topics will include long division, word problems involving division, using a protractor, classifying angles, ordered pairs, rounding numbers, and the use of parentheses in number statements. -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice test. -Thursday Tutoring is from 3:00-3:45. Bring in a snack for yourself if you can.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 6-10, and finish the long division practice sheet you started in class today. -Reminder: Wednesday after school, 4th and 5th graders will be taking a bus to the TCA for a slideshow and presentation by Dave Hahn about climbing Mt. Everest. We'll be taking a bus down there, and I'll be attending the presentation as well. Students who want to participate will need to be picked up at the TCA at 5:30 . Bring a snack. There is no cost for this event. We'll have regular pick-up at 2:50 for students who choose not to join us.

For Tuesday:

-Math: SL 6-9

Spelling List 2/28/11

1. numerator 2. denominator 3. dynasty 4. ancient 5. emperor 6. tyrant 7. immortal 8. luxurious 9. scholar 10. oasis 11. tierra (earth) 12. agua (water) 13. fuego(fire) 14. Still waters run deep.

Ms. Erin's Spelling List 2/28/11

/s/ = ce chance fence force glance nice place peace price since space trace twice Contractions I have = I’ve you have = you’ve

Over the weekend:

-Math: Finish both sides of the long division practice sheet. Show the remainders in fraction form or divide them out into decimals. -Science: If you can, watch the rest of the PBS documentary on the wolves of Yellowstone National Park. Here's the link: http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/in-the-valley-of-the-wolves/introduction/212/ Think about these questions for Monday: Other than wolves, what parts of the Yellowstone ecosystem food chain are shown in the film? How do those animals relate to the wolves? How would the food chain be different if there were no wolves? What are the wolves' biggest threat?

For Friday:

-Math: SL 6-8 (p. 135) -Spelling: Study for the quiz. Many students had a lot of trouble with the practice quiz today, so learn from those mistakes! -After school assembly next week: Next Wednesday, March 2nd, there will be an after-school presentation at the TCA for 4th and 5th graders by mountain climber Dave Hahn about his experience climbing Mt. Everest. Information about the program went home with students today.

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz.

For Wednesday:

-Math: SL 6-7 (p. 133) and use the links to practice measuring angles. -Reading: Recipes from the novel Everything on a Waffle went home today with students. Give one of them them a try in the kitchen if you can. Be sure to ask your parents first!

Spelling List 2/22/11

1. hypothesis 2. pursue 3. conceal 4. controversy 5. hostile 6. persist 7. economy 8. sufficient 9. sustain 10. yield 11. tienda (store) 12. dinero (money) 13. You reap what you sow.

Ms. Erin's Spelling List 2/22/11

/o/ = oa coach coast goal groan loan moan roam roast throat Contractions should not = shouldn’t could not = couldn’t would not = wouldn’t

For Friday:

-Math: SL 6-6 (p. 131) -Spelling: Study for the quiz. -Family Bingo Night is Friday in the new gym from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Great prizes! Come and join the fun! Frito pies and hot dogs will be served!

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 6-5 (p. 129) -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz. -Creative Writing: Some students still have not finished the rough draft of their friendly letter. Finish those up tonight. We'll complete the final drafts in class on Thursday. -Thursday tutoring is from 3:00 to 3:45.

For Tuesday and Wednesday:

-Math: SL 6-4 (p. 127) and MJ p. 148-151. -Creative Writing: Finish writing your RD of the friendly letter. Have a parent or older sibling proofread it and mark errors. We'll write the final drafts in class on Wednesday. -Non-skiers will be swimming at TYFC from 1:30 to 2:30. They should bring a suit, towel, and $1 for pool admission. Parents should pick kids up at TYFC at 2:50.

Spelling List 2/14/11

1. protractor 2. vertex 3. acute angle 4. right angle 5. obtuse angle 6. anecdote 7. melancholy 8. acquire 9. incarcerate 10. destination 11. unpredictable 12. Como se llama usted? (What’s your name?) 13. Me llamo ________. (My name is ______.) 14. The more, the merrier

Ms. Erin's List 2/14/11

/o/ = ow show slow snow throw bor/row el/bow fol/low mel/low pil/low sor/row shal/low yel/low be/low to/mor/row

Over the weekend:

-Math: SL 6-3 (p. 125) and finish both sides of the long division practice sheet. Show your work. -Creative Writing: On Monday, bring in the full mailing address of an out-of-town friend or relative that you'd like to send a friendly letter to. You may need a parent's help with this. You'll be writing the letters in class on Monday and Wednesday. -Valentines Day: Students can bring in cards and a treat to share on Monday if they want to. We'll have a party at about 2:10.

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 6-2 (p. 123) on long division. -Thursday tutoring will be from 3:00 to 3:45. Bring a snack if you can. -School supply re-supply: Parents, this time of year many students are running out of necessary school supplies such as pencils, paper, composition books, dry-erase markers, folders, art supplies, etc. Please ask your child if they are low on or out of something and replenish those items. See the supply list way down toward the bottom of the blog. -I still haven't received re-enrollment forms from Eben and Joanne. Please be sure to get those in on Thursday.

Ski Club Update

-If school is on and on-time on Tuesday, Ski Club will be heading up to TSV at the normal time. Non-skiers will be going to the southside Guad for lunch at 11:00, and swimming at TYFC from 1:30-2:30. Students should bring money for lunch, plus $2 for the bus fee and $1 for pool entry. Parents can pick up non-skiers at TYFC at 2:45.

For Friday:

-Math: SL 6-2 (p.123) -Spelling: Study for the weekly quiz. -Field Trip! On Friday morning the class will be taking a trip to the Harwood Museum to tour the collection and participate in an art activity led by Anne Costanza and the museum staff. Parents are invited to come along and help chaperone. The bus will leave TCS at 9:30 and return to school at about 11:40. The bus fee is $3. Please bring that in to school on Monday .

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 6-1 (p. 121) -Spelling: Written work due. Study for the practice quiz. -There will be no Thursday after-school tutoring this week.

For Tuesday and Wednesday:

-Grammar Packet: Complete pages 48 to 53. Due Wednesday. - Non-skiers will be swimming at the TYFC from 1:30 to 2:30 on Tuesday. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and $1 for pool admission. Parents can pick kids up at 2:45 at TYFC. -I still haven't received 2011-12 re-enrollment forms from Tiana, Eben, JB, Joanne, and Cyrus. Parents, please send those in as soon as possible.

Spelling List 1/31/11

1. February 2. conjunction 3. excessive 4. cuisine 5. liter 6. milliliter 7. conflict 8. concur 9. necessities 10. comrade 11. antagonize 12. pero (but) 13. para (for) 14. One picture is worth a thousand words.

Ms. Erin's List 1/31/11

Final /a/=ay say clay sway tray dis/may re/lay de/lay mid/way mid/day contractions I will = I’ll you will = you’ll

For Friday:

-Math: SL 5-12 (p. 115), and review for the Unit 5 test. -Spelling: Study for the quiz.

For Thursday:

-Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz -Thursday tutoring is from 3:00-3:45. We'll review for the Unit 5 math test on Friday. Bring a snack!

For Tuesday and Wednesday:

-Math: SL 5-10 (p. 113), and solve the 10 multiplication problems on the green half-sheet. Both of these assignments are due on Wednesday. -Science: Finish both sides of the Mission to Mars activity sheet. -Non skiers should bring in $4 on Tuesday to cover bus transportation to the Millicent Rogers Museum in the morning and pool admission in the afternoon. They also need to bring a swimsuit and a towel. We'll be swimming at the TYFC from 1:30 to 2:30. Parents should pick up non-skiers at the TYFC at 2:50.

Spelling List 1/24/11

1. pronoun 2. icicle 3. irregular 4. atrocious 5. innovative 6. prosperous 7. translate 8. million 9. billion 10. gradually 11. Tengo hambre. (I’m hungry.) 12. Tengo sed. (I’m thirsty.) 13. Poco a poco, se va lejos. (Little by little, you’ll go far.)

Ms. Erin's List 1/24/11

/a/=ai air brain claim grain mail paid paint rain strain wait re/tain con/tain contractions you are = you’re we are = we’re

Over the weekend:

-Math: Finish both sides of the 2 by 2 multiplication practice sheet. -Science: Spend 30 minutes working on the "Mission to Mars" questions. Review the online NOVA video if you need to (see the top link). - Non-skiers will be taking a field trip on Tuesday morning to the Millicent Rogers Museum to tour the exhibits and participate in an art activity. In the afternoon, they'll be swimming at the TYFC from 1:30 to 2:30. Students should bring in $4 on Monday or Tuesday to cover transportation to the museum and admission to the pool. -Winter MAPS Testing for 4th grade will take place next week on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:30 to 9:30. - Re-enrollment forms went home with students today. Parents, please fill those out to indicate your intentions for the 2011-12 school year, and return them to me as soon as you can.

For Friday:

-Math: SL 5-8 (p.111), and spend 15 minutes working on the 2 digit x 2 digit multiplication practice sheet. -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the quiz.

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 5-8 (p. 109)

Spelling List 1/18/11

1. exponent 2. debris 3. grammar 4. noun 5. subject 6. verb 7. predicate 8. adjective 9. adverb 10. facil (easy) 11. dificil (difficult) 12. En boca cerrada, no entran moscas. (A closed mouth attracts no flies.)

Ms. Erin's Spelling List 1/18/11

ea=/e/ east beach clean dream feast lead least near please read teach year ea/gle ea/sy trea/ty sea/son mea/ger

Over the Long Weekend:

-Math: SL 5-7, and teach your parents how to do Lattice Multiplication. - Non-skiers will be swimming on Tuesday afternoon at the TYFC. They should bring a swimsuit, towel, and $2 for pool admission.

For Tuesday and Wednesday:

-Skiers should be at school, ready to go at 7:45 am. Wear your warmest gear! The temperature will likely be below zero during the early part of the day. Parents should pick kids up from TCS at 5:00 pm. -Reminder: Participating in Ski Club is a privilege, not a right. Students need to maintain good grades, behavior, and attendance to remain eligible to ski each week. -Non-skiers will be swimming during the afternoon from 1:30 to 2:30. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and $2 to pay for pool entry. Parents should pick non-skiing students up at the Taos Youth and Family Center at the usual pick-up time (2:50 pm). -In the event of a 2 hour delay on a Ski Club Tuesday, both ski club and non-skiing plans will be postponed to a later date. Instead, we'll have a normal day of school starting at 10:15 am. -Second marking period Report Cards went home with students today. Parents, please sign the blue slip and have you son or daughter return it to me at school on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Spelling List 1/10/11

1. collapse 2. phrase 3. estimate 4. exact 5. boundary 6. cease 7. contribute 8. advantage 9. disadvantage 10. fluent 11. hombre (man) 12. mujer (woman) 13. The thousand mile journey begins with a single step.

Ms. Erin's List 1/10/11

Suffix ly Suffix y fondly sadly sweetly gladly closely costly bulky bumpy frosty dusty Contractions is not = isn’t will not = won’t

For Friday:

-Math: SL 5-4 (p. 101) -Spelling: Have a parent or older sibling give you a practice quiz at home. -TCS Geography Bee will be at 1:00 in the new cafeteria.

For Thursday:

-Math: SL 5-3 (p. 99) -Spelling: Written work is due. Study for the practice quiz. -Geo-Bee semi-finalists should prepare for the school-level competition, which will take place on Friday at 1:00 in the Cafeteria. Parents are invited!

For Tuesday:

-Reading: Finish the Winter Break Book Review you started in class today.

Spelling List 1/3/11

1. prefix 2. suffix 3. international 4. surrender 5. sympathy 6. genuine 7. imitation 8. abandoned 9. dishonesty 10. resolution 11. lapiz (pencil) 12. cuaderno (notebook) 13. There’s no time like the present.

Ms. Erin's List 1/3/11

Spelling Final /k/ A Spelling Rule After a closed vowel in a 1 syl. word use ck Examples: snack, check, shock, thick, puck After a closed vowel in a 2+ syl. word use c Examples: pic/nic, eth/nic, plas/tic, do/mes/tic After a consonant or double vowel use k Examples: silk, think, dark, shook, week After an open vowel use ke Examples: shake, hike, yoke, choke