State Testing Week

     This week we will begin the NY State tests. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday the students will be taking the NY State ELA. Each day we will begin this test as early as possible. If your child arrives after testing has begun, he/she will not be allowed in the classroom. We will not be eating snack at our regular time on these days, so it is important that your son/daughter eats a good breakfast. We will be sitting for over 70 minutes each day, which can be exhausting for children. A good night sleep really helps! We have had many class discussions about these tests and I have tried to emphasize that I only want the students to try their best!
     Life in our classroom does go on even though we are testing! We will be working on our personal narratives. Each student has completed their rough drafts and I have spent time this weekend reading some WONDERFUL work! We will revise, edit and begin our final copies. We will also begin to draft our speeches for our Wax Museum (2:30 pm on Friday, April 26th) and create timelines. The students are very excited about this project. This week we will discuss costumes. These are not meant to be purchased or made. Simple items around the house can be used to transform your son/daughter into their historical figure.
    In math, we have some work to do with graphing before we take the NY State Math test (next week). We will also continue to work on our geometry vocabulary and practice fractions.


A few reminders:

 -During the month of April I am asking that you and your child edit their informational writing piece together and type this assignment at home. This is due on Tuesday, April 30th (16 days away)!

  -There will be no current events in April.

  -Please continue to practice math facts at home each night. If you feel your child has become fluent in the multiplication facts, try a few division facts.