Hi Parents and Students,
I hope you're having a terrific weekend.  I'm starting to feel that we're on a roll, with the kids understanding this year's routines and expectations, now that they are 4th graders.

I've added something new to the blog this week, which you will see on the right.  There is a section labeled "Homework Help". So far, I've posted the 3 "ShowMe" videos that review the main concepts of the math lessons we will address this week.  I've also posted a copy of this week's homework, so students who are absent or have misplaced the homework will be able to find it.  I will continue to search for resources to support the kids with homework as it changes.

Today I also read (in the Sentinel) about what sounds like a terrific presentation for parents on Friday night at Aptos High. I'm including the article, and encourage you to attend even though it sounds directed toward parents of teenagers.
 Aptos High Parenting Presentation
The thing that appealed to me was the shift in focus, away from grades, and toward learning.  I think this is an especially valuable reminder right now, as we are currently expecting kids to work at school in ways they haven't experienced before.  Of course it will take time for kids to become familiar with new formats, and increased rigor! I would attend myself, but this Friday and Saturday I (and several other Rio teachers) will be attending a conference sponsored by the Cotsen Art of Teaching Foundation.  The kids will have a sub on Friday so that I can observe classrooms in southern California prior to the conference.

This week the kids will be reading a story in the anthology called Cendrillon.  We continue to discuss character in ELA, as well as 1st and 3rd person narration. In Social Studies, they will be reading about California's population, and where the residents of California tend to live. Finally, in math we will continue with rounding, moving from the vertical number line to mental math, and applying rounding in story problems.  By the end of the week we will be adding large numbers, using a variety of models including the standard algorithm. (Module 1, Lessons 8-12)

Finally, a reminder that Back-to-School Night is scheduled for Thursday, September 18. 

Take care,
Carroll Mayer