Reading:
We will be beginning our informational unit using our Journeys text series. We will specifically focus on Unit 2, which will require students to read a series of fiction and non-fiction animal stories. Students will be analyzing the text in detial, focusing how to cite textual evidence using our strategy called ACE. This will require students to answer the question being asked, citing textual evidence to support their answer, and extending their evidence to prove their point. Students will also be revisiting the different types of text structure, as well as studying vocabulary within the context of literature.
Students are still expected to keep a reading log that tracks how much reading is taking place at home each night. Reading logs are given out on Friday's and are completed and turned in by the following Friday with a parent signature. Students should be reading 20-30 minutes at home each night during the week. Students will also choose 5 prompts to answer based upon their current reading. They should be reading an approved independent book within their reading level. Students will take another STAR test in the month of October to determine their "just right" reading level. Books can be found from our classroom library, the school's library, or public library. Students are working to reach their Read N Quiz reading goal this month, please ask them to share these with you or find them on Progress Book.
Students will also have the opportunity to order books through Scholastic Book Club once a month. Scholastic Book orders will be sent home in your student's Friday folder each month. Please make sure to put your child's name on the book order with a check made out to Scholastic Reading Club or the exact change in an envelope. You can also place an order online at anytime with credit card by using our class code: MNJX2. Your child's order helps our classroom library grow with many current reads at all sorts of various reading levels.
Writing:
We will continue learning about the 6 traits of writing, as we begin drafting our second writing piece. Students will be working on an informational writing piece that will require them to research an animal. Students will be required to cite textual evidence throughout their essay, to support their research. We will then publish their informational essay on Google Docs.
Please ask your student to show you their writing interactive notebook!
General Reminders:
End of the grading period 10/19/17
No school 10/20/17
Reports cards 10/27/17