A New Year

Another school year is starting!

If you are visiting our class blog because of the postcard you got in the mail, just know that I am SO excited to spend the year with you.  Our classroom is almost ready-- I just have a few more things to do!

Some things to look forward to in 4th grade:

1.  Social Studies- learning about (and making scrapbooks of) the regions of the United States.  By the end of the year, students knew where all 50 states are in the United States!  We also spend a lot of time studying about Kansas, famous Kansans, and Kansas history.

2.  Field Day- My favorite event is Belly Bumpers, especially when I can knock down some almost middle schoolers!

3.  Indoor Recess- Maybe you won't look forward to it, but 4th graders still manage to have fun with their friends!

4.  Science- We will spend time learning about the scientific method, sound, and metric measurement.  

5.  Reading, reading, and more reading.  You will quickly discover my obsession with reading and books. If you hate reading and can't stand books, don't worry! I will help you find some books that you love (and can't put down)!

Students browse our own "Barnes and Noble" and start making lists of books that they would like to read.

Book Clubs are an absolute favorite for 4th graders!  There are so many good books to choose from, read, and discuss with your classmates!

Students discuss books that they are reading and look back at places they have marked that made them laugh or think!

6.  Math- We will spend a lot of time this year on geometry (shapes), multiplication and division, and fractions.  If you haven't been practicing your math facts this summer, you might want to start very soon!

7.  Projects- Using the laptops regularly is a special thing for 4th graders.   We use them to complete projects in writing, social studies, reading, and math.  

And lastly, Kanopolis!  This is such a great memory of 4th grade and it's so much fun!

You will also probably hear stories about my family throughout the year- my two kids, Drew and Anna who were born last December.

My husband, Dave. He is a veterinarian in Hutchinson.  He works on all animals- cows, horses, dogs, and cats.  He even works on snakes, birds, and zoo animals sometimes!

And, you will hear stories about my fat cat, Fergie.

I hope this gave you a bit of taste of what 4th grade is like.  I definitely think it's the best grade around! I look forward to seeing you at Meet the Teacher Night on Monday from 5:00-6:00 or on Tuesday (our first day of school).  Also, don't worry if you are nervous!  I am always nervous on the first day of school (and I'm old).

If you have any questions about 4th grade (or me), write them down!  We will have a time on Tuesday that I will answer any questions you have (there are only about 3 questions I will never answer).