Update 12/19/2014

Parents,

We just wanted to wish you happy holidays! See you next year!

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

12/18 Update

Hi Parents and Families!

Tonight's homework is the 6-4 math sheet sheet.

Also, don't forget that tomorrow is the HES Polar Express Day.  Students may wear pajamas, but please make sure that they wear appropriate footwear.  Mrs. Thompson's class will have PE tomorrow, so keep that in mind, as well.

Also, students were told today that they may bring a small pillow, blanket, or stuffed animal to use while watching the movie tomorrow afternoon.  The only guideline is that anything they bring must fit into the backpack so that it can remain safely out of the way during morning activities.

We're excited about a fun day of holiday activities tomorrow!  Have a wonderful evening!

Daily Update 12/16

Good evening parents and families,

We hope you're all having a great week!

The only homework students will have for tonight is their math worksheet.  There are no spelling words or reading log assignments this week.  Please still encourage your child to read if he/she has the time.

Also, just a reminder that Friday is the HES Polar Express day.  Students may wear PJs to school, but please make sure all pajamas cover the body and are appropriate for the weather, and that students wear "real" shoes.  We will still have recess and want all students to be comfortable.  Also, some parents have asked about sending in treats to share on Friday.  If you'd like to do that, that is fine--we'll share them in the afternoon while watching the movie.  Please just remember that, according to district rules, homemade treats are not allowed.

Thanks so much for all your support!  Please be sure and let us know if you have any questions.

Update 12/15/2014

Parents,

Happy Monday. Due to the holiday season coming closer, there will not be any spelling or reading log this week. However, since math is done on a daily basis with new skills, there will be math homework. Please continue to have your child read as much as possible this week if they have time.

Friday will be Polar Express Day. Students are welcome to wear pajamas on that day. Please make sure they wear proper shoes since they will still be outside for recess. We ask that they do not wear slippers. If students want to bring in a snack, they may do so. If you choose to bring in a snack, please make sure it is store bought per DODEA policy and there is enough for everyone. (about 40)

Thank you and have a great week.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu   mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 12/11/2014

Parents,

Since the students took the topic 5 math test today, I decided to not give them math homework. However, they should be studying for the science test tomorrow using their study guide we completed in class yesterday and completing their reading log. Thank you.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu   mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

12/10 Update

Hi Parents and families!

For tonight, students should continue reading (at least 20 minutes!) and working on their reading logs.  Also, don't forget to study those spelling words!

In math, students were assigned a problem set from the textbook on Tuesday night.  That homework is due tomorrow, so please check to make sure your child has finished that assignment.  There will be a math test tomorrow--Thursday 12/11.

Students also received a study guide today for the upcoming science test.  All students had the opportunity to complete this guide in class.  Please use the study guide to help your child study for the Electricity test.  That test will be on Friday, 12/12.

Have a wonderful evening!

Update 12/9/2014

Parents,

The students have to complete their reading log as usual. Their math assignment is to complete pg. 122-123 all the even numbered problems from all the sets. They have until Thursday to complete this. It will prepare them for the topic 5 math test on Thursday. Also, I was originally going to assign the science study guide as homework but changed my mind. We will go over it tomorrow and this will still give them two nights to study for the science test on Friday. Thank you and have a good night.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu   mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 12/8

Happy Monday!

Here are this week's spelling words.  Our pattern this week is consonant pairs with "ng," "nk," "ph," and "wh."  Please remember to study nightly for the test on Friday.

Thanksgiving
among
think
blank
graph
young
wheel
nephew
belong
whiskers
whisper
elephant
white
shrink
wharf
trunk
strong
blink
chunk
skunk

Challenge:
strengthen
bankrupt
phantom
whimsical
whatever

Also, students do have a reading log this week.  Please make sure your child is reading nightly and using complete sentences to respond to a different question each night.

Tonight's math homework is the 5-8 worksheet, and there will be a math test on Thursday focusing on Topic 5:  2-digit multiplied by 1-digit numbers.

Students will have Science test on Friday.  Please look for study guides to come home tomorrow.  Students will not be allowed to use this guide during the test, so please make sure your child spends time studying at home.

Have a great evening!

Update 12/5/2014

Parents,

There is no homework. However, I just wanted to remind you to have your child continue to record the electricity use over the weekend and for the remaining two weeks. Thank you for supporting our science project. Have a great weekend.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu   mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

12/4/2014 Update

Hi Parents!

Tonight's homework:

1. Study for spelling test.  Don't forget you can use www.spellingcity.com and search for the "Grace and the Time Machine" list.  Students should know how to do this.

2. Finish reading log--due tomorrow

3. Math worksheet:  5-5


**In science, students have begun phase two the energy usage project.  If you haven't yet read Mr. Utter's update, please see yesterday's post.

**Don't forget our canned food drive to benefit our local food pantry.  Students can bring canned goods in until Dec. 11.  Thanks!

Have a great evening!  Please feel free to email either Mrs. Thompson or Mr. Utter with any questions.

Update 12/3/2014

Parents,

Students have their reading log to complete and both sides of a math worksheet to practice division and problem solving skills. We are also continuing our "electricity at home project." Students were asked last month to record their electricity usage for two weeks to see how much electricity their family uses and to get an average. Now, we are asking students to begin recording their electricity usage for the next two weeks again; only this time they will be implementing a change to try and reduce the daily amount of electricity used each day. This can be something simple like turning the heat down one or two degrees, watching a little less tv, playing video games less, etc. This is not to inconvenience your family. We are just trying to educate your child on electricity use and conserving energy. We understand it may be difficult since families may be using more electricity than before with Christmas lights. But hopefully we can see a decline, even a small one, of electrical usage than before. Students completed a table to record their electricity usage with a letter explaining the next step of this project or it can be seen on your child's Google account. Thank you for your support and have a good night.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu   mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 12/2/2014

Parents,

The students have their normal reading log to complete and a math worksheet on 5-4 - problem solving with multiplication. Thank you and have a good night.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 12/1/2014

Happy Monday Parents,

The students will continue their Native American novel studies. In science, they will continue to learn about electricity; specifically on electromagnets. In math we have begun topic 5 which teaches the students two digit multiplication times one digit. Their spelling words are as follows: morning, forest, garbage, form, alarm, corner, story, argue, backyard, start, partner, storm, Florida, apartment, sport, force, forward, sharp, garden, Arkansas, CHALLENGE: departure, margarine, informative, snorkel, and carnation.

Their homework is the reading log and a math worksheet on rounding the number and then multiplying it. (5-3)

Have a great week. I hope everyone had a relaxing Thanksgiving break.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 11/25/2014

Parents,

I hope everyone has an enjoyable and relaxing Thanksgiving break. I am looking forward to seeing some catapults when we return for those students who were interested in doing the November STEAM Challenge.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 11/24/2014

Happy Monday Parents,

Just a friendly reminder that we are not giving the students homework tonight or tomorrow. Thanks and have a good night.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu   mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 11/21/2014

Parents,

As mentioned yesterday, I have assigned math homework this weekend. We are finishing topic 4 division and will be testing on Monday so the homework serves as a nice review for the assessment.. I wanted to get the test in before Thanksgiving break. They have to complete pg. 92-93 sets A-E from their text book. Since I assigned homework over the weekend, I allowed students to work on it at the end of the math lesson so your child might have finished it already.

Thank you and have a great weekend.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 11/20/2014

Parents,

Sorry for not sending a blog out last night but the system was down. They have a spelling test tomorrow to study for. They also need to finish up their reading log to hand in and a math worksheet on division.

Students will be receiving homework this weekend. We are finishing up topic 4 and I would like to test them on it before the students go on Thanksgiving break. The test will be next Monday. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. The students who practiced their facts and know them should not have a problem finishing it very quickly. Students who will not be here next week will test on it when we come back.

Thank you for understanding.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 11/18

Hi Parents and families,

For homework tonight, please keep on studying those spelling words--they're a bit tricky this week!  If you want to use an online tool to help, go to www.spellingcity.com and search for "Coyote School News."  This is the title of our list.  Students can play free games and take practice tests.

Students also have their nightly reading assignment and a math homework sheet.  Don't forget--if you're stuck on homework, your child can always log into his/her www.kz.com account and watch today's video lesson!

Lastly, please consider supporting the HES PTO by stopping by Wendy's tonight for dinner between 5pm and 8pm.  Just mention that you're there to support our school, and a portion of the proceeds will go to benefit our students.

Have a wonderful evening!

Update 11/17/2014

Happy Monday Parents,

The students' spelling words are the following: videos, teeth, potatoes, themselves, lives, leaves, cliffs, roofs, halves, moose, radios, sheep, cuffs, beliefs, patios, banjos, tornadoes, tomatoes, hoofs, loaves  CHALLENGE: portfolios, embargoes, handkerchiefs, calves, lassoes

They have their daily reading log for homework along with a division sheet.

Have a great week.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Parents,

Students have to complete the math sheet, 4-1, on the introduction to division. They were given strategies to help them solve the problems. Students should still be reading tonight even though they don't have a reading log for this short week. Thank you and have a great night.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu

mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Daily Update 11/12

Welcome back!  I hope you all had a great long weekend :-)

Because this is only a 3 day week, we will not have spelling words or reading logs.  Please continue to encourage your child to read each night!

Students are beginning Topic 4 in math, which includes basic division facts.  Please help your child keep working to develop mastery of these facts.

Math homework tonight:  Topic 4:  Multiple Choice Test (this will serve as a pre-test for Topic 4).

**Don't forget about our awards ceremony on Thursday at 2:30.  Students who earned all As and all As and Bs will be recognized.**

Have a great evening!

Update 11/5/2014

Parents,

The students should be finishing up their math assignment if they have not already finished it last night. The assignment is to complete all the problems on pg. 72-73 as a review for the test on topic 3 tomorrow. They also have the spelling test tomorrow, as well. If you need the words, they are posted on Monday's blog. They need to complete their reading log, as usual.

Reminder that parent teacher conferences are this Friday. If you forgot your time, please contact us to give you your time.

Thank you and have a good night.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu     mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 11/4/2014

Parents,
Students have their reading log to complete. For math, students need to complete all the problems on pg. 72-73 in their math book which is review in preparation for their test on Thursday. They have 2 days to complete this homework assignment.
Thank you.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea,edu

Update 11/3/2014

Happy Monday Parents,

Students will be working on complete sentences for their grammar skill. Their spelling words involve adding -s and -es to the end of words to make it plural. Students have to be aware that some words that end with "y" will be changed to "i" and will add "es." Some words will just add "s" while others such as words that end with "ch" will end with "es."

For reading, students will be working on Native American themed novel studies with the literature circle format. The following are their spelling words for the week: monkeys, friends, plays, supplies, taxes, holidays, months, companies, costumes, sandwiches, hobbies, daisies, delays, scratches, counties, teammates, memories, bunches, batteries, donkeys  CHALLENGE: eyelashes, ambulances, trophies, secretaries, inventories

For math we will be testing on topic 3 this Thursday on multiplication. In science, we are doing a STEAM project this week. I am asking students if they have an extra cardboard juice or half gallon milk container to bring in by Wednesday.
They have a problem solving sheet to complete for homework tonight. They will get review, "reteach" out of the math book tomorrow in which they will have two days to complete. They also have their reading log to complete this week.

Reminder that parent teacher conferences are this Friday.

Have a great week.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu     mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

10/31 Conference Schedule

Hi Parents!

Please don't forget about fall conference day at HES.  Conferences will be held on November 7, and this will be a no-school day for students.  Letters with conference times were sent home a few weeks ago, but in case you've forgotten (or yours never quite made it home), below is schedule for both Mrs. Thompson and Mr. Utter.  If you haven't yet confirmed your time with your child's teacher, please let us know ASAP if you're able to make it.  We're happy to try to reschedule, if necessary.  

Thompson

8:00--8:15 Dermotta

8:15--8:30 Mullen

8:30--8:45 Levreault

8:45--9:00 Cromwell

9:00--9:15 Kindle

9:30--9:45 Betik

9:45--10:00 Bohanon

10:00--10:15 Malone-Healey

10:15--10:30 Person

11:00--11:15 Wilson

11:15--11:30  Reid

1:00--1:15 Sayles

1:15--1:30 Pendergast

1:45--2:00 Simmons

2:00--2:15 Ayers

2:15--2:30  Albin

2:30--2:45 Witherington

2:45--3:00 Diaz

3:00--3:15 Kruzel

3:15--3:30 Sievert

Utter
8:15-8:30 Campion
8:30-8:45 Conte
9:15-9:30 Hancock
9:30-9:45 Levell
9:45-10:00 Sili
10:00-10:15 Moss
10:15-10:30 DeTreux
10:30-10:45 Forrester
10:45-11:00 Mitchell
1:00-1:15 Hartman
1:30-1:45 Thomas
2:00-2:15 Purvis
2:15-2:30 Sheets
2:30-2:45 Latorre
2:45-3:00 Evans
3:00-3:15 Velasquez
3:15-3:30 Philo

Have a wonderful weekend, and we look forward to seeing you all on November 7.

Daily Update 10/27

Happy Monday!!

Tonight's Homework:

Math--3-5 worksheet/Multiples of 6, 7, and 8

Language Arts:  Because this week is so short, there will be no Reading Log or spelling words.  We'll pick up with both next week.

**We are beginning a new project on Figurative Language.  If your child would like, he or she may work on this project all home.  Directions and resources can be found on your child's Google Drive.

**Don't forget, Thursday and Friday are non-school days :-)

Update 10/23/2014

Parents,

Students have to complete a math worksheet on multiplication multiples of 3 and 4. They should be practicing their multiplication facts regularly. They need to finish up their reading log and study for the spelling test tomorrow. Due to the study trip tomorrow, the reading test will be given on Monday.

I hope students are excited about going on our study trip tomorrow morning. We are proud of those students who will be singing at the study trip, as well. We ask that chaperones who have signed up to assist us be at school around 9:15 since we will depart around 9:30 and be back by 11:30.

Please notify us if your conference time is a problem for you so we can reschedule it.

Thank you and have a great night.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 10/21

Hi Parents and families!

Tonight's homework:

Reading Log--Due Friday

Study spelling words (see earlier post for words)

Math HW sheet 3-3

**Please don't forget to sign and return your child's permission slip for Friday's study trip!

**Also, if you haven't yet returned the signed form confirming your child's conference time, please do so ASAP.  

Please feel free to contact us with any questions.  Have a great evening!

Welcome to a new week!

This week in Math:  This week, students are beginning a new topic focusing on basic multiplication.  This will likely be a review for most students, and it is very important that your child master these basic multiplication facts.  If your child struggles with these basic facts, you may want to have him/her spend some time practicing with flash cards, www.multiplication.com, or www.ixl.com.  

Tonight's homework:  3-2 homework sheet

This week in Reading:  This week we'll be reading about a famous Native American athlete, Jim Thorpe.  We will be working on the following skills for the next two weeks:

Comprehension skill:  Fact and Opinion

Grammar skill:  Capitalization rules

This week's spelling words:

misplace

nonsense

reread

repack

misfortune

remove

mishandle

nonstop

recover

reseal

misbehavior

reunion

nonfiction

rebound

mistreat

readjust

misprint

nonprofit

nonstick

misquote

Challenge Words

misinterpret

mispronounce

noncommittal

reconstruct

reorganize

Tonight's homework:  Reading Log; practice spelling words

**Today I showed students how to find their spelling lists on www.spellingcity.com.  This is a great resources for practicing spelling, and students DO NOT need to have an account.

This week is Science:  Students are finishing their storm presentations.  Be sure and ask your child to log into his/her google account and show you what he/she has been working on!

This week in Social Studies:  We are beginning a study of Native American tribes.  We'll be learning about the Narragansett of the Northeast and the Cherokee of the Southeast.

**IF YOUR CHILD HASN'T YET RETURNED HIS/HER PERMISSION SLIP FOR OUR STUDY TRIP ON FRIDAY, PLEASE DO SO NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY!!

Have a wonderful evening!

Update 10/16/2014

Parents,

Students should do their normal reading log tonight for homework along with studying their stem words for the test tomorrow and complex sentences for their grammar quiz. They have math homework that introduces them to topic 3 - multiplication.

Reminder that picture day is tomorrow.

We will also be going to an event aboard Camp Lejeune on October 24 for Diversity and Unity Recognition Day. We are looking for chaperones for this event. The permission slip and details will go home with students tomorrow.

Thanks and have a good night.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu     mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 10/15/2014

Parents,

Students should be completing their normal reading log and need to complete the math assignment that was given out yesterday. I gave them two days to complete it that will prepare them for the test tomorrow on topic 2 (adding and subtracting whole numbers). They are to do all the problems on pg. 50-51 from their math book on separate paper.

Thank you,

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 10/14/2014

Parents,

I hope you had an enjoyable three day weekend. Students are presenting their region projects in social studies and will be learning about Native Americans in the different regions across the U.S. In language arts, students are still writing descriptive paragraphs, working on complex sentences for their grammar skill, and main idea/details for their reading skill. In science, they are continuing their storm project on google docs. In math, we are finishing up topic 2 - adding and subtracting whole numbers.

Their homework is the reading log and math review pg.50-51 (all problems) to review for the math test on Thursday. This assignment is due on Thursday. My suggestion is to have students either do it all tonight or have them complete pg. 50 tonight and pg. 51 tomorrow night.

Their spelling words this week are prefixes. They are: ad- which means near. (ex. adhere); trans- which means across. (ex. transcontinental); sub- which means below. (ex. substandard); extra- which means outside. (ex. extracurricular); intra- which means within. (ex. intramural)

Don't forget picture day is this Friday. Have a great week.

Questions/Concerns

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu     mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 10/10/2014

TGIF - Have a great three day weekend!

Update 10/9/2014

Parents,

The students have a busy evening ahead of them. They need to study for the science test using the study guide I gave them yesterday giving them two days to study. They also need to study their spelling words for the test. They will do their normal reading response and math homework that deals with subtracting with zeros.
The internet was down yesterday afternoon and this morning. We apologize for any inconvenience this has been to updating grade speed or other information online.
Students will be presenting their regions project next Tuesday. They have access to go online at home and work on it if they need to.
A reminder there is no school next Monday due to Columbus Day.
Thanks.

Questions/Comments

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu     mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Hello parents and families!

Tonight's Homework

Reading Log-- due Friday
Study spelling words--long "u" pattern
Math homework sheet --subtraction practice

Science test Friday!!  Students received a study guide today. Please make she to prepare for the test.

Have a wonderful evening!!

Update 10/6/2014

Happy Monday Parents,

I hope you had an enjoyable weekend. The following is a quick review of what will be covered this week. In math, students are working on addition and subtraction of whole numbers. This is a review of last year's unit on adding and subtracting with regrouping. I believe they were exposed to a lot of this in second grade, as well. In science, we are reviewing for a test on the water cycle process, clouds, and weather tools. A study guide will go home to prepare students for this test. It is scheduled for Friday. They will also be working on a research project on storms. In social studies, students are finishing their regions project and will present them at the end of the week. In language arts, students are writing descriptive word poems. Their spelling words are the following:
usual, huge, flute, mood, smooth, threw, afternoon, scooter, juice, cruise, truth, bruise, cruel, excuse, pupil, groove, confuse, humor, duty, curfew
Challenge: influence, aluminum, nutrition, accumulate, igloo

Reminder there is no school next Monday for Columbus Day.

Questions/Concerns

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu      mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 10/3/2014

Parents,

Next week students will be getting new spelling words. They will continue to work on their research project in social studies. They will be learning about storms and natural disasters. They have moved onto unit 2 in math which deals with adding and subtracting whole numbers.

Have a great weekend.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu    mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Daily Update 10/2

Good afternoon 4th grade families!

Tonight's homework:

Math

Students have a double sided worksheet to help them preview what they'll be learning in Topic 2.  If your child needs help, feel free to check out the videos on www.kz.com.  Each question on the homework sheet notes the specific topic and lesson where you can find help.

Language Arts

Reading Logs are due tomorrow!!  Don't forget to put them back in the take-home folder.

Spelling Stems quiz tomorrow.  If you need a word list, check out Monday's blog post.

Grammar Quiz--compound sentences


**Upcoming Events**

10/13--no school/Columbus Day
10/17--Picture Day

Have a great evening!
Mindy Thompson
Chuck Utter

Daily Update 10/1

Good afternoon!

Today's Homework

Keep studying those spelling stems!  Test Friday!

Daily Reading Log entry--use complete sentences in your answer.

Math homework due--page 24-25, all problems (students were given 2 nights to do this)


** Math test tomorrow!  Remember, you can check out www.kz.com to help you study for your Topic 1 test.

**Music rehearsal after school tomorrow.  If you turned in a permission slip to Mrs. Arencibia and received a letter with rehearsal details, don't forget that the first rehearsal will be tomorrow.

Have a wonderful evening!  Please don't hesitate to let us know if you have any questions.

Update 9/30/2014

Good Afternoon,

Students have their normal reading log to complete tonight along with studying their spelling words. If you need the words again, they are in yesterday's blog. For math, they have two days to complete the math assignment that is due on Thursday. They need to bring their math book home with them and answer all the questions on pg. 24 and 25 on separate paper. This is important homework that serves as a review for the Topic 1 math test that they will take on Thursday.

Just a reminder that students should keep toys or items not needed for school at home. We have seen items that do not belong here since they can be damaged, lost, etc.

Thank you,

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu   mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 9/29/2014

Happy Monday Parents,

In language arts, the students will be working on author's purpose as their reading skill. They should be doing their reading log each night and studying their stem words. They are multi- (many), micro- (small), magna- (large), equa or equi (equal), and mega- (loud).
In social studies they will become more proficient in regions with the project they are working on. In science, we are continuing to learn about weather (water cycle, clouds, weather tools). In math, we are finishing up Topic 1 and will have a test on it later in the week. It will include place value, expanded form, word form, rounding, money, and making a list problem solving.
Tonight's homework is the reading log, studying words, and the math sheet on making a list problem solving.

Have a great week.

Questions/Concerns at charles.utter@am.dodea.edu  or mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Update 9/25

Happy Thursday!!

Tonight's Homework:

Reading Logs are due tomorrow.  Please make sure to have your student put the completed log in his or her backpack!

Spelling Test tomorrow!  Don't forget to study.  You can find the words in Monday's post.

Math:  Topic 1-5 worksheet
**We did have some technical difficulties this afternoon with our math program.  If your child has the wrong homework, or if something about the homework doesn't make sense, don't worry.  Just do your best and Mr. Utter will take care of it in the morning!**


Also, don't forget that tomorrow is the last day for the Scholastic Book Fair.  You can also go online to http://bookfairs.scholastic.com/homepage/heroeselementaryschool2  All the proceeds go to support our awesome PTO!

Have a wonderful evening!

Update 9/24/2014

Parents,

Thank you to those of you who made it to Curriculum Night. Hopefully you enjoyed it and picked up some books from the book fair, too. For those who wondered, there were 174 chocolate kisses in the glass container.

Homework tonight is both sides of the math sheet reviewing place value and writing numbers. They should continue their reading log each night and study their spelling words.

Students received their progress reports today. Please sign it and have your child return it to school.

Thank you,

Chuck Utter, Mindy Thompson

Update 9/22/2014

Welcome to another week of school!

Tonight's homework consists of a worksheet on comparing numbers and ordering numbers. This is part of unit 1. Students are also responsible for knowing place value, expanded form, written form, and subtracting money amounts in unit 1.

In science, we are continuing the unit on weather. We are learning about the water cycle this week and finishing up our research on types of clouds on google apps. We will begin new research on storms and natural disasters on google apps, as well.

In social studies, we are finishing up U.S. geography and land forms. Students will be painting their elevation map when they are dry, and beginning a culminating project on becoming an expert on one of the five regions.

In ELA, we will be focusing on fairy tales and story elements. The following are the spelling words for this week:
prairie, calorie, honey, valley, money, finally, movie, country, empty, city, rookie, hockey, collie, breezy, jury, balcony, steady, alley, trolley, misty
Challenge words: frequency, parsley, journey, chimney, attorney

Don't forget we have the book fair open this week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

We have an exciting evening of fun on Curriculum Night tomorrow from 5:30 - 7:00. Hope to see you there.

Questions/Concerns,

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu  mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

Happy Friday Eve!!

Just a reminder that Reading Logs are due tomorrow.  Please make sure your student finishes the last entry and bring it to school tomorrow.

Students also have a math worksheet for homework tonight and should review our spelling stems for tomorrow's test.  You can check out Monday's post for that list if you need it :-)

As always, don't hesitate to contact us with any questions:

Mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu
Charles.utter@am.dodea

Have a great evening!

Update 9/16/2014

Hi Parents,

The students only have homework on their reading log and to study their prefixes for the test on Friday. I am giving them a break on the math homework today since we had a test on topic 17.

If the words are missing, please look on yesterday's post and they are listed.

Thank you and have a great night.

Chuck Utter, Mindy Thompson

Update 9/15/2014

Happy Monday Parents,

I hope everyone had a great weekend. The students have a social studies and math test tomorrow. We didn't plan it that way, the units happened to end at the same time. They should have a study guide for the social studies test to study from. If they forgot their textbook and wanted to study from it, they can log into Pearson and bring up the section from the book online.
They have a math test on Collecting Data, Topic 17. They were assigned all the problems on pgs. 426-427 in their math book. It is practice on each section that we learned thus far. They do not have to know mean.

Mrs. Thompson is still looking for volunteers to whip up a batch of salt dough in relation to a project the students will be doing this Friday. She has the recipe. Please contact her if you are interested in helping.

For spelling this week, students are responsible for the spelling and meanings of five prefixes. They are: uni, mono/mon, di, tri, and quadra/quadru. They will need to complete their reading log this week as usual.

Thank you and have a great week.

If questions, email us at:

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu, mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

9/11/2014 Update

Happy Thursday!  It's almost the weekend!

Tonight's Homework:

Students should continue adding to their weekly Reading Log.  Please make sure it gets into the Take-Home folder tonight, since this assignment is due tomorrow!

Don't forget to study for the spelling test tomorrow.  Your child should have a list of words in his/her folder.  If not, there is a list in an earlier blog post.

In math, students are working with circle graphs.  The homework tonight is the 17-9 worksheet.


Upcoming Events

Don't forget about tonight's Ice Cream Social.  Come and enjoy free ice cream from the PTO!!

Mrs. Thompson will be giving a Social Studies test on Tuesday of next week.  We've been reviewing in class, and students will be given a study guide on Monday so you can review before the test.


Help Wanted

Next week, the students will be building topographical maps of the United States out of salt dough.  If any moms and/or dads would be willing to help out by mixing up a big batch or two of salt dough, I'd very much appreciate it!  If you'd like to help, contact Mrs. Thompson, and she can give you details.

Also, we plan to make our maps on Friday of next week.  If you'd like to be an extra set of hands and are available between 8:45 and 10:10, please let Mrs. Thompson or Mr. Utter know :-)

Have a wonderful evening!!

Update 9/10/2014

Happy Wednesday Parents!

The students will be completing a math assignment on pictographs. We did not cover this concept but it should be clear in the directions how to do it and is part of our unit on collecting data.

They should continue doing the reading log. Also, the students will be taking their first reading test on Grandfather's Journey on Friday along with the spelling test. They are welcome to bring their text book home Thursday nights to read the story. If they do so, please bring it back the following day since they are allowed to look back in the story to find answers for the test. The reading test will be done on Pearson so students can log in and review what questions they got wrong and it details the comprehension skills they did not master. These reading tests will occur every other week.

Just wanted to remind you that we have our Freedom Walk and Ice Cream Social if you can make it tomorrow.

Thanks,

Chuck Utter, Mindy Thompson

Update 9/9/14

I hope your Tuesday went well.

We worked on Stem and Leaf Plots in math today and that is what their homework is on. Now that Pearson is working, most of the time students will be taking a five question assessment after the math lesson each day. Depending on how they score on it will dictate their homework for the night. For example, if they get a perfect five out of five, they will do the "enrichment" homework sheet that will challenge them. If they get a three or four out of five they will do the "practice" homework which is review of the learned concept. If they score a zero to two out of five, they will do the "reteach" homework sheet which tries to explain the concept in more depth with a practice problem or two. Also, students can log into Pearson at home and review the day's lesson if they need help.

They should continue to complete their reading log each night and study their spelling words.

Thank you,

Chuck Utter, Mindy Thompson

Daily Update

Welcome to a new week of 4th grade!

Tonight's homework:

Reading log entry--please make sure your child is fully answering their chosen question using complete sentences.

Spelling--students received their first spelling list this week.  You should see the list in your child's take-home folder, but a copy of the words can be found below for your convenience.  Please help your child study throughout the week.  Test Friday!!

Math--Topic 17-7 homework sheet (Median, mode, and range)


Upcoming events:

Sept 11 – Freedom Walk 8:45am.  Parents are encourage to join the HES students and staff in walking to commemorate the anniversary of September 11th.

Sept 11-- Ice Cream Social  5:00--6:30  The PTO invites you to join us for free ice cream.  Bring the whole family!

Sept 23 - Fall Curriculum Night 5:30--7:00 Stay tuned for details


Spelling Words

sweet
each
three
least
freedom
below
throat
float
foam
flown
greet
season
croak
shallow
eagle
indeed
rainbow
grown
seaweed
hollow

Challenge Words
Halloween
speedometer
underneath
seacoast
cocoa

Announcement 9/5/14

We have enjoyed working with your child for the first two weeks of school. The students have no homework over the weekend. I hope your child told you about the STEAM project they completed this week. We will be moving into a unit on weather next week. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
Thank you and have a relaxing weekend.

Chuck Utter and Mindy Thompson

Daily Update--9/4/2014

Hi Parents!

Our apologies for falling a bit behind.  The beginning of the school year is always crazy, but we'll do our best to update regularly.   Keep in mind that we do try to keep homework assignments fairly consistent.  You can almost always expect your child to be reading and filling in one log entry per night and to have a nightly assignment for math. Of course, students are always expected to study for upcoming tests and there may be occasional additional assignments.  The dates for all tests and extra assignments will definitely be posted here!!

This week has been busy with learning routines for our reading centers, STEAM projects to highlight the Scientific Method, learning all about our country's diverse climates, and continuing to work with graphs and data.

Please be on the lookout for Spelling words to begin next week.  The list should come home with your child on Monday.  While there is not a formal nightly homework assignment, students are expected to study at home throughout the week.  Spelling City is a great resource!

Tonight's homework:  Due to beginning of year assessments, students do not have math homework tonight.  Students should still read and complete a Reading Log entry.

Have a great evening!!

Wednesday Update

Students should continue reading every night. They have a math assignment where they will be tallying some items from home and then completing a bar graph on it.

Thank you to those who have volunteered to help us make copies. We are all set for volunteers but will be looking for assistance in future projects.

Thank you for your support.

Mr. Utter, Mrs. Thompson

Tuesday Information

I hope you are having a great week. Tonight's homework includes continuing the reading log that is due on Friday and the math on bar graphing (double sided).

We are looking for one or two volunteers who can commit to making copies for us once a week. The copying itself should take no more than an hour. Please email one of us () if you are interested.

Thank you for your support and please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

charles.utter@am.dodea.edu or mindy.thompson@am.dodea.edu

First Week of School

Welcome to the first week of school. The reading log was assigned today to be completed by Friday. Please look over the directions found on the back of the sheet. Math homework was assigned today to be completed by tomorrow. Our first unit in math is on the collection of data. We are working on the scientific method in science and introducing the different regional land forms and climate in social studies. In English Language Arts, students are beginning descriptive writing and establishing the reading group routines.

Please return the transportation form if you have not returned it yet.

Our classrooms are implementing class dojo. Be on the lookout for log-in instructions coming soon.

Thanks,

Mr. Utter, Mrs. Thompson

Welcome Back to School!!

We are so excited!  In just 2 more hours, we get to meet the wonderful 4th graders that we'll be working with this year.  For this school year, Mr. Utter and Mrs. Thompson will be using this blog to communicate with the families in our 4th grade classes.  Please check our blog daily to find:

• daily homework assignments
• test dates
• upcoming events in our classes and our school
• copies of our weekly newsletter with curriculum information
• special announcements
• requests for volunteers

WELCOME BACK TO 4TH GRADE!!!