Hi All,

Thanks to all that helped with the Halloween party, most especially Ruth DeLuca, our extraordinary Room Parent!  The kids had a great time!

This week the students will have a challenging spelling list that focuses on 3 letter clusters and unexpected spelling patterns( like -tch, spr-, wr- and gn-.)  Please be sure your child gives him or herself enough time to practice these words.  The weekly math practice will now shift from subtraction practice to multiplication practice, which we will continue throughout the year. We will have a test on Ch. 6 in math on Tuesday, addressing the concept of multiplication, and the application of multiplication facts from 0-5, and 9. This test is not timed, and facts need not be memorized for students to perform well.

However, it's the goal for third graders to memorize their multiplication facts, so this week we will begin timed tests on the facts from 0-4.  The kids will be given a lot of time, and students will raise their hands to indicate when they have completed the test.  Your child will then note how long it took to complete the test. The goal is to get faster and faster (with accuracy!)  If your child is struggling with multiplication facts, please support them with additional practice using flash cards, web-based drills, videos, or oral practice (in the car, while waiting in line, etc.)

Finally, please remember that RTI (Reading Groups) start promptly at 7:55.  Tardy students miss out on reading instruction that is targeted to their specific reading needs.  Please get kids to school on time -- or early!

Take care,

Carroll Mayer