Hello,
I had a rough one. It wasn't because of the kids. Today the adults were wearing me down. I think we had a pretty good day in the classroom. The classroom was my sanctuary.
We finished my erosion slides. (Can they define it for you now?) I got one email saying that her son was ready for a little trip out west. I'd love it if more of you are hearing that. My dream summer job is to take Maine kids out west on ten day camping and adventure trips. I think it would be so great to open up their horizons to a whole new landscape and environment.
The continent test went pretty well. I won't know for sure until I grade it, but a quick glance as I collected them made me feel pretty good.
We will try to wrap up our geography picture dictionaries tomorrow and think about creating some play dough islands. We also have a bit more map skill study to go through before jumping into rocks and minerals. That is a fantastic topic to teach: lots of investigation and exploration.
Our picture book of the day was The Story of the Little Mole Who Went in Search of Whodunit by Werner Holzwarth. You might want to ask about that one after you have eaten.
Sorry so late tonight. A parent meeting went long, mainly because I'm a talker.
Spelling test tomorrow.
Have a good night,
Mr. Shea
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
NECAPs are coming
Hello,
We had a staff meeting pop up at the end of the day to discuss the upcoming NECAPs. This is the federally mandated test that took the place of the MEAs a couple years ago. We will have ninety minutes of testing every afternoon for the next week and a half. The testing will start on Monday. Please have your child rested and well fed. You might want to send them in with an extra snack.
The testing schedule is going to interfere with our regular day. It looks like a majority of the time taken will come out of our literacy blocks. The fourth grade team will meet to see if we want to spread the pain and maybe drop a math class or two.
A reminder that we have no school on Friday the 7th of October and Monday the 10th of October. Friday is one of the furlough days that was built into the schedule to save taxpayers money. Monday is Columbus Day. We will do a few neat activities on Columbus before the holiday. So plan ahead now: you will have your child(ren) for a four day weekend.
I read the picture book Why Do You Cry? by Kate Klise this afternoon. This led to a discussion about when and why we cry. Ask your child about it.
In our continuing study of erosion, (Can they define it for you yet? The changing of the surface of the earth caused by wind and water) I showed the class some of my slides from the western U.S. Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, White Sands, Arches, Canyonlands and Death Valley were featured to show some of the more dramatic results of erosion that we have in our country. It probably doesn't hurt that I have some funny little stories that go with some of the slides. We should finish up the slides tomorrow with a little erosion or not erosion section.
Thanks for reading tonight. And thank you for reading this and discussing the school day with your child. It is great reinforcement of their learning and of your caring about the importance of them and their education.
Mr. Shea
We had a staff meeting pop up at the end of the day to discuss the upcoming NECAPs. This is the federally mandated test that took the place of the MEAs a couple years ago. We will have ninety minutes of testing every afternoon for the next week and a half. The testing will start on Monday. Please have your child rested and well fed. You might want to send them in with an extra snack.
The testing schedule is going to interfere with our regular day. It looks like a majority of the time taken will come out of our literacy blocks. The fourth grade team will meet to see if we want to spread the pain and maybe drop a math class or two.
A reminder that we have no school on Friday the 7th of October and Monday the 10th of October. Friday is one of the furlough days that was built into the schedule to save taxpayers money. Monday is Columbus Day. We will do a few neat activities on Columbus before the holiday. So plan ahead now: you will have your child(ren) for a four day weekend.
I read the picture book Why Do You Cry? by Kate Klise this afternoon. This led to a discussion about when and why we cry. Ask your child about it.
In our continuing study of erosion, (Can they define it for you yet? The changing of the surface of the earth caused by wind and water) I showed the class some of my slides from the western U.S. Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, White Sands, Arches, Canyonlands and Death Valley were featured to show some of the more dramatic results of erosion that we have in our country. It probably doesn't hurt that I have some funny little stories that go with some of the slides. We should finish up the slides tomorrow with a little erosion or not erosion section.
Thanks for reading tonight. And thank you for reading this and discussing the school day with your child. It is great reinforcement of their learning and of your caring about the importance of them and their education.
Mr. Shea
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
A little better...
Hello,
Well, we are continuing the climb. Six didn't bring in their homework today. Improvement.
I got some nice feedback on yesterday's blog, including from some of teachers. I'm always wary of being too preachy and sometimes my emotions get the better of me, but apparently I didn't cross any lines last night. Thank you for the feedback. It is nice to hear from all of you. There is no such thing as too much communication between a parent and teacher. I jokingly wrote an email last year to a parent at the beginning of June that said, "Are you okay? It's almost noon and I haven't got an email from you yet." So if you have something on your mind, please share.
We started a new procedure today. We are filling out our assignment books with an hour still left in the day. I think I may move it up right before afternoon recess tomorrow. That will be motivating. It is amazing how long it takes to get an assignment book out near the end of the day. It was much quicker today, but I think the pre-recess idea will work even better. I signed everyone's assignment book today once they got the correct info. I think I missed a few spelling lists though. You may want to check your child's list before they start studying.
We went down to the dining room today and talked about the anxiety that can go along with finding a place to sit, finding a friendly face, sitting alone, etc. It is a problem that they didn't have to deal with nearly as much at their old schools. Here, most everyone is still unfamiliar. The cafeteria seats are built so kids can just "move down." Kids often feel left out. We did a little brainstorming on what we can do to help alleviate some of the issues.
I have volunteered to take on two Bowdoin students this year. They generally will be in our classroom three hours a week. Coral came in this morning. She was a Red Riot from South Portland before going to Bowdoin. She will do a lot of observing and then will hopefully lend a hand on some our projects as we move forward.
I read Gleam and Glow by Eve Bunting to the class. This is a continuation of my ongoing efforts to show them what they can get out of picture books. Gleam and Glow is a fantastic picture book about a family that has to leave their home by foot because of oncoming soldiers. They throw their two gold fish in the pond by their house before they go, saying, "A couple of extra days of life is important, even for a fish." They walk a long, long way to cross the Bosnian border to live in a peace camp. Years later, upon their return home, they find their house burned and the landscape "looking like the surface of the moon." Then they see their pond, teeming with life. Hundreds of gold fish make the water a dazzling display of color in a gray, bleak world. It is based on the true story of the village of Jezero in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The fish helped rebuild the town because of all the tourism that it brought to the village.
I finished and asked, "Isn't that a great story? See what you can find out from a picture book?"
One student raised his hand and said, "That's the best picture book I've ever heard." Music to my ears.
This reading lead to a much longer discussion than I had anticipated. I relayed a couple stories of students' families that I had taught in Portland that had escaped from Somalia to live in UN camps. We talked about how lucky we are to live in the U.S. and not have to worry about that. Someone brought up 9/11, saying that we can be attacked. This led to more questions and discussion.
Tonight's homework is not what I had originally planned, but I didn't think Gleam and Glow would take up my whole literacy block. The question that I want them to answer is: What would you take if you had to leave your house and walk to freedom and safety? (and why, of course) It all has to be small enough that you could carry it in a backpack, but you can assume that there would be no electricity in the camp that you were headed to.
I think we'll have some more interesting conversation tomorrow.
Have a good night.
Mr. Shea
Well, we are continuing the climb. Six didn't bring in their homework today. Improvement.
I got some nice feedback on yesterday's blog, including from some of teachers. I'm always wary of being too preachy and sometimes my emotions get the better of me, but apparently I didn't cross any lines last night. Thank you for the feedback. It is nice to hear from all of you. There is no such thing as too much communication between a parent and teacher. I jokingly wrote an email last year to a parent at the beginning of June that said, "Are you okay? It's almost noon and I haven't got an email from you yet." So if you have something on your mind, please share.
We started a new procedure today. We are filling out our assignment books with an hour still left in the day. I think I may move it up right before afternoon recess tomorrow. That will be motivating. It is amazing how long it takes to get an assignment book out near the end of the day. It was much quicker today, but I think the pre-recess idea will work even better. I signed everyone's assignment book today once they got the correct info. I think I missed a few spelling lists though. You may want to check your child's list before they start studying.
We went down to the dining room today and talked about the anxiety that can go along with finding a place to sit, finding a friendly face, sitting alone, etc. It is a problem that they didn't have to deal with nearly as much at their old schools. Here, most everyone is still unfamiliar. The cafeteria seats are built so kids can just "move down." Kids often feel left out. We did a little brainstorming on what we can do to help alleviate some of the issues.
I have volunteered to take on two Bowdoin students this year. They generally will be in our classroom three hours a week. Coral came in this morning. She was a Red Riot from South Portland before going to Bowdoin. She will do a lot of observing and then will hopefully lend a hand on some our projects as we move forward.
I read Gleam and Glow by Eve Bunting to the class. This is a continuation of my ongoing efforts to show them what they can get out of picture books. Gleam and Glow is a fantastic picture book about a family that has to leave their home by foot because of oncoming soldiers. They throw their two gold fish in the pond by their house before they go, saying, "A couple of extra days of life is important, even for a fish." They walk a long, long way to cross the Bosnian border to live in a peace camp. Years later, upon their return home, they find their house burned and the landscape "looking like the surface of the moon." Then they see their pond, teeming with life. Hundreds of gold fish make the water a dazzling display of color in a gray, bleak world. It is based on the true story of the village of Jezero in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The fish helped rebuild the town because of all the tourism that it brought to the village.
I finished and asked, "Isn't that a great story? See what you can find out from a picture book?"
One student raised his hand and said, "That's the best picture book I've ever heard." Music to my ears.
This reading lead to a much longer discussion than I had anticipated. I relayed a couple stories of students' families that I had taught in Portland that had escaped from Somalia to live in UN camps. We talked about how lucky we are to live in the U.S. and not have to worry about that. Someone brought up 9/11, saying that we can be attacked. This led to more questions and discussion.
Tonight's homework is not what I had originally planned, but I didn't think Gleam and Glow would take up my whole literacy block. The question that I want them to answer is: What would you take if you had to leave your house and walk to freedom and safety? (and why, of course) It all has to be small enough that you could carry it in a backpack, but you can assume that there would be no electricity in the camp that you were headed to.
I think we'll have some more interesting conversation tomorrow.
Have a good night.
Mr. Shea
Monday, September 26, 2011
Rough Monday
Hello,
We had a rough start. Only ten reading logs came in this morning. I don't mind if we forget one at home once in a while, but the number one excuse this morning was, "You didn't give me one." Absolutely not true. I passed one out to everyone. I announced at least three times last week that I would no longer be responsible for giving out reading logs. I have a stack next to their mailboxes where they can take as many as necessary.
I realize that a lot of kids in the class have a slight allergy to reading. We have to change that. I say we because I definitely need your help. Reading is by far the most important thing that we teach at this level. Reading improvement will make every other academic area easier for your child. Students who read are better writers, better spellers, have better vocabularies, have an easier time with math, and are simply more interesting. All of those improvements that come from reading will make school easier and more enjoyable. And when students do well in school, they have more opportunities later on in life.
Okay, there's at least part of the sales pitch. Now the harder part: what do we do to make this happen. I'll start out with what I aim to do. I will get to know your child. I will find out their likes and dislikes. I pledge to hunt high and low to put the books that your child is interested in, in front of their face. If you don't think your child is interested in any books, you are wrong. Find a topic that they like, be it baseball, horses, insects, Star Wars, whatever, and I guarantee that they will be interested in a book on that same topic as long as it is:
1) Written at a level that they can understand.
2) Attractive (Most kids don't read beat up, old books)
I will spend what I have to to get these books. I've been looking for dirt bike books this year. I've found three. I'll keep finding them and buying them. Last year I bought a forty volume series on horses (on Ebay) to keep a girl reading. I will do what it takes.
I will also work to destigmatize picture books. Third grade is where many students make the jump from picture books to chapter books. I'm here to tell you that picture books are not just for little kids. I will reintroduce your kids to the world of picture books. Nobody outgrows Dr. Seuss, Chris Van Allsburg, or Bill Peet. Picture books are for all ages. Noone should ever feel ashamed of carrying them around. I believe some kids that aren't ready to tackle the thicker chapter books get caught in a no mans land of "Books they understand but are afraid to carry around" and "Books that make them look smart but they can't understand." It is sad. I think some teachers perpetuate this myth of growing too old for picture books, but it is wrong. Worse than that, it is harmful to many kids. I read a couple of picture books to the class last week to begin my war against the myth. I was pleased to see those books being reread during our silent reading time, usually by reluctant readers.
I will also relentlessly spew about all of the great things that I have learned or enjoyed because of reading. Enthusiasm is contagious. Reading is contagious. That's why the beginning of the year can be so tough when the non-readers have so much company. If only one person forgot a reading log this morning, you can bet that one person would have felt a lot worse. One by one, I will convert them.
Here's where you come in. Do you read? Does your child ever see you reading for enjoyment? Do you ever announce something that you just found out by reading the newspaper or magazine? I encourage you to start a book. You can even start the same book your child is reading in class. I'll make sure to get an extra copy in your hands. Children emulate. I would love it if you started reading a few minutes a night.
Okay, request number two: Get the television out of your child's bedroom. I know over half the kids in the class have a tv in their room. They told me. It is the easiest indicator I have on who will have the most trouble staying focused, getting proper sleep, and reading. I'll send home a pamphlet by reading guru Jim Trelease. He has done all of the studies. I'll let him give you the numbers behind it. This is also the hardest one for most parents. They ask me, "What can I do?" but then balk at my answer.
Finally, please stay in contact with your child's teacher. Many of these kids are very savvy in their ability to get out of doing work. I will get each child in this class to write up their homework in their assignment books. If for some odd reason that they don't get it down, check the blog. If your child doesn't think you care about school, they won't either. When your child knows that you are checking in and that we are on the same page, they will try harder. And when they try harder, they have a great chance to succeed. We both want that.
All for now. Sorry so longwinded.
Thanks for reading,
Mr. Shea
We had a rough start. Only ten reading logs came in this morning. I don't mind if we forget one at home once in a while, but the number one excuse this morning was, "You didn't give me one." Absolutely not true. I passed one out to everyone. I announced at least three times last week that I would no longer be responsible for giving out reading logs. I have a stack next to their mailboxes where they can take as many as necessary.
I realize that a lot of kids in the class have a slight allergy to reading. We have to change that. I say we because I definitely need your help. Reading is by far the most important thing that we teach at this level. Reading improvement will make every other academic area easier for your child. Students who read are better writers, better spellers, have better vocabularies, have an easier time with math, and are simply more interesting. All of those improvements that come from reading will make school easier and more enjoyable. And when students do well in school, they have more opportunities later on in life.
Okay, there's at least part of the sales pitch. Now the harder part: what do we do to make this happen. I'll start out with what I aim to do. I will get to know your child. I will find out their likes and dislikes. I pledge to hunt high and low to put the books that your child is interested in, in front of their face. If you don't think your child is interested in any books, you are wrong. Find a topic that they like, be it baseball, horses, insects, Star Wars, whatever, and I guarantee that they will be interested in a book on that same topic as long as it is:
1) Written at a level that they can understand.
2) Attractive (Most kids don't read beat up, old books)
I will spend what I have to to get these books. I've been looking for dirt bike books this year. I've found three. I'll keep finding them and buying them. Last year I bought a forty volume series on horses (on Ebay) to keep a girl reading. I will do what it takes.
I will also work to destigmatize picture books. Third grade is where many students make the jump from picture books to chapter books. I'm here to tell you that picture books are not just for little kids. I will reintroduce your kids to the world of picture books. Nobody outgrows Dr. Seuss, Chris Van Allsburg, or Bill Peet. Picture books are for all ages. Noone should ever feel ashamed of carrying them around. I believe some kids that aren't ready to tackle the thicker chapter books get caught in a no mans land of "Books they understand but are afraid to carry around" and "Books that make them look smart but they can't understand." It is sad. I think some teachers perpetuate this myth of growing too old for picture books, but it is wrong. Worse than that, it is harmful to many kids. I read a couple of picture books to the class last week to begin my war against the myth. I was pleased to see those books being reread during our silent reading time, usually by reluctant readers.
I will also relentlessly spew about all of the great things that I have learned or enjoyed because of reading. Enthusiasm is contagious. Reading is contagious. That's why the beginning of the year can be so tough when the non-readers have so much company. If only one person forgot a reading log this morning, you can bet that one person would have felt a lot worse. One by one, I will convert them.
Here's where you come in. Do you read? Does your child ever see you reading for enjoyment? Do you ever announce something that you just found out by reading the newspaper or magazine? I encourage you to start a book. You can even start the same book your child is reading in class. I'll make sure to get an extra copy in your hands. Children emulate. I would love it if you started reading a few minutes a night.
Okay, request number two: Get the television out of your child's bedroom. I know over half the kids in the class have a tv in their room. They told me. It is the easiest indicator I have on who will have the most trouble staying focused, getting proper sleep, and reading. I'll send home a pamphlet by reading guru Jim Trelease. He has done all of the studies. I'll let him give you the numbers behind it. This is also the hardest one for most parents. They ask me, "What can I do?" but then balk at my answer.
Finally, please stay in contact with your child's teacher. Many of these kids are very savvy in their ability to get out of doing work. I will get each child in this class to write up their homework in their assignment books. If for some odd reason that they don't get it down, check the blog. If your child doesn't think you care about school, they won't either. When your child knows that you are checking in and that we are on the same page, they will try harder. And when they try harder, they have a great chance to succeed. We both want that.
All for now. Sorry so longwinded.
Thanks for reading,
Mr. Shea
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Late again
Hello,
I met with a Bowdoin student after school. She will be coming into our class once or twice a week starting next week. I love what Bowdoin's education department has been doing these past few years. They are putting Bowdoin students into the classroom and now even offer a free fifth year to Bowdoin students that want to go into education. We need that caliber of student in the teaching profession, especially in the public schools.
The indoor recess days make it hard to catch our breath around here, but it went pretty well. Nine of our students put on a mini Witches play. I was impressed with the acting ability in the class. Our Grand High Witches were powerful, and our ancient ones were perfectly feeble.
My math class had a bit of trouble with our time telling lesson. I had hoped that it would be a review, so I had them do a human clock. Twelve students knelt in a big circle as the numbers on a clock and then two others were chosen to be the hands. They lay in the proper position, with the taller of the two being the minute hand. I don't know if it was the lack of knowledge or just energy bubbling over, but we didn't handle it well. Only a couple groups got to go before we were back in the class doing a more traditional lesson. Maybe some other day.
Students should be finishing Fortunately/Unfortunately stories in the next few days. I would rather have them write what they want, but I think I'll be coming up with topic after topic for awhile. Those ready to go off on their own just need to speak up. I won't be holding anyone back.
Spelling test tomorrow. The ten words on the back count six points each. The twenty words on the front count only a point a piece. Another point for correct capitalization on the front. That equals one hundred. Early on, I only take off a max of ten for misspelling in the front so that they realize that the back of the test is where I am most concerned. They know what words will be on the back, so I expect that they should do well on those. Words missed on the front will usually appear on the back the next week. I hope this makes sense. This is late already so I'm not proofreading tonight.
Good night,
Mr. Shea
I met with a Bowdoin student after school. She will be coming into our class once or twice a week starting next week. I love what Bowdoin's education department has been doing these past few years. They are putting Bowdoin students into the classroom and now even offer a free fifth year to Bowdoin students that want to go into education. We need that caliber of student in the teaching profession, especially in the public schools.
The indoor recess days make it hard to catch our breath around here, but it went pretty well. Nine of our students put on a mini Witches play. I was impressed with the acting ability in the class. Our Grand High Witches were powerful, and our ancient ones were perfectly feeble.
My math class had a bit of trouble with our time telling lesson. I had hoped that it would be a review, so I had them do a human clock. Twelve students knelt in a big circle as the numbers on a clock and then two others were chosen to be the hands. They lay in the proper position, with the taller of the two being the minute hand. I don't know if it was the lack of knowledge or just energy bubbling over, but we didn't handle it well. Only a couple groups got to go before we were back in the class doing a more traditional lesson. Maybe some other day.
Students should be finishing Fortunately/Unfortunately stories in the next few days. I would rather have them write what they want, but I think I'll be coming up with topic after topic for awhile. Those ready to go off on their own just need to speak up. I won't be holding anyone back.
Spelling test tomorrow. The ten words on the back count six points each. The twenty words on the front count only a point a piece. Another point for correct capitalization on the front. That equals one hundred. Early on, I only take off a max of ten for misspelling in the front so that they realize that the back of the test is where I am most concerned. They know what words will be on the back, so I expect that they should do well on those. Words missed on the front will usually appear on the back the next week. I hope this makes sense. This is late already so I'm not proofreading tonight.
Good night,
Mr. Shea
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
One last thing...
Hello again,
I wanted to let you know that there is something going around causing flu-like symptoms. We have had a lot of absences in two of our schools (not HBS) and we are hoping it doesn't spread here as well. I will continue to remind your children to wash their hands before eating, but lunch happens immediately after recess, where many get caught up with the masses. A small hand sanitizer or an extra reminder from home could go a long way. I believe a letter will be on the school website and also be going home regarding this matter tomorrow. I just wanted to give you a heads up.
Thanks,
Mr. Shea
I wanted to let you know that there is something going around causing flu-like symptoms. We have had a lot of absences in two of our schools (not HBS) and we are hoping it doesn't spread here as well. I will continue to remind your children to wash their hands before eating, but lunch happens immediately after recess, where many get caught up with the masses. A small hand sanitizer or an extra reminder from home could go a long way. I believe a letter will be on the school website and also be going home regarding this matter tomorrow. I just wanted to give you a heads up.
Thanks,
Mr. Shea
Best day yet...
Hello,
The day went well. I read Unfortunately by Remy Charlip to them this morning. This version was written for me. It is one of those books that you could send away for that personalizes the story. I got the book on my eighth birthday (back in '78). It is about a boy named Steven Shea, who fortunately gets a letter inviting him to a birthday party. Unfortunately the party is in Mexico, and poor Steven lives in Wiscasset, Maine. Fortunately Steven has a friend that loans him an airplane. Unfortunately the engine blows up. Fortunately Steven has a parachute... You get the picture.
The students' assignment was to write a Fortunately/Unfortunately story. Most of them got right at it. I gave them some additional time this afternoon to write or read and some of them even finished. It doesn't have to be very long. I was looking for at least ten fortunately/unfortunately sentences.
We watched a couple of short videos from discoveryeducation.com on landforms and erosion. Then we gathered around a tray of dirt and made predictions on what would happen when I poured a constant stream of water on the high end of the tray. So far we have seen a lot of the smaller dirt particles get carried downstream. A big hole has formed where the water is being poured. A delta is beginning to form at the bottom of the tray where there was no dirt before. We will continue our experiment tomorrow and see what transpires. I'm also asking for alternative experiments that they would like to see involving trays of dirt and water. All they have to do is write up what they would like to see and we'll do it.
I was impressed with some of the questions today. I love curious kids. Curiosity begets curiosity. We'll get everyone on board soon.
Teachers discussed movement amongst the math classes. We are waiting on one more class to finish their math testing before we move one or two from each class. We are only moving students that we feel would benefit by being in a class where their abilities are a closer match. I don't like to lose anyone, so it definitely isn't personal, but some moves make too much sense.
Thank you to all the parents for showing up last night. I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to speak to all of you. I did my best to make the rounds.
Have a great night.
Mr. Shea
The day went well. I read Unfortunately by Remy Charlip to them this morning. This version was written for me. It is one of those books that you could send away for that personalizes the story. I got the book on my eighth birthday (back in '78). It is about a boy named Steven Shea, who fortunately gets a letter inviting him to a birthday party. Unfortunately the party is in Mexico, and poor Steven lives in Wiscasset, Maine. Fortunately Steven has a friend that loans him an airplane. Unfortunately the engine blows up. Fortunately Steven has a parachute... You get the picture.
The students' assignment was to write a Fortunately/Unfortunately story. Most of them got right at it. I gave them some additional time this afternoon to write or read and some of them even finished. It doesn't have to be very long. I was looking for at least ten fortunately/unfortunately sentences.
We watched a couple of short videos from discoveryeducation.com on landforms and erosion. Then we gathered around a tray of dirt and made predictions on what would happen when I poured a constant stream of water on the high end of the tray. So far we have seen a lot of the smaller dirt particles get carried downstream. A big hole has formed where the water is being poured. A delta is beginning to form at the bottom of the tray where there was no dirt before. We will continue our experiment tomorrow and see what transpires. I'm also asking for alternative experiments that they would like to see involving trays of dirt and water. All they have to do is write up what they would like to see and we'll do it.
I was impressed with some of the questions today. I love curious kids. Curiosity begets curiosity. We'll get everyone on board soon.
Teachers discussed movement amongst the math classes. We are waiting on one more class to finish their math testing before we move one or two from each class. We are only moving students that we feel would benefit by being in a class where their abilities are a closer match. I don't like to lose anyone, so it definitely isn't personal, but some moves make too much sense.
Thank you to all the parents for showing up last night. I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to speak to all of you. I did my best to make the rounds.
Have a great night.
Mr. Shea
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Open House
Hello,
I hope you can make it to tonight's open house. The school will be open from 6:00 to 7:30 and the entire staff will be available to talk to. I hope to see you there.
All for now,
Mr. Shea
I hope you can make it to tonight's open house. The school will be open from 6:00 to 7:30 and the entire staff will be available to talk to. I hope to see you there.
All for now,
Mr. Shea
Monday, September 19, 2011
Off to Fenway
Hello,
Our school counselors came for an introductory visit this morning. They did a stand up / sit down activity to find out some of the concerns of our class. Mrs. Farrand is our full time counselor and Mrs. Powers will split time between here and the Jr. High. They are welcoming kids to sign up to have lunch with them in the upcoming weeks.
My math class finished their first test with mixed results. We still need to realize that there are only three digits per family in place value. Many were stumped by questions like: How much is 12 tens plus 12 ones. We'll keep at it. Math concepts build on each other, so we won't go on until we understand.
We reviewed the uses of there, their and they're. Two, too and to were discussed as well. Students were given placards with individual words on each one. They attempted to hold up the correct placard after each sentence that I came up with. It was a good start for our first go around.
I'm going to Fenway Park tonight to watch my favorite baseball team. I don't usually sleep much anyway, so that shouldn't be an issue tomorrow. I hope to see everyone at tomorrow's open house. It starts at 6:00 and goes until 7:30.
Our Mr. or Little Miss stories are due tomorrow. Anyone who didn't finish today has that for added homework.
Have a good night. Go Sox!
Mr. Shea
Our school counselors came for an introductory visit this morning. They did a stand up / sit down activity to find out some of the concerns of our class. Mrs. Farrand is our full time counselor and Mrs. Powers will split time between here and the Jr. High. They are welcoming kids to sign up to have lunch with them in the upcoming weeks.
My math class finished their first test with mixed results. We still need to realize that there are only three digits per family in place value. Many were stumped by questions like: How much is 12 tens plus 12 ones. We'll keep at it. Math concepts build on each other, so we won't go on until we understand.
We reviewed the uses of there, their and they're. Two, too and to were discussed as well. Students were given placards with individual words on each one. They attempted to hold up the correct placard after each sentence that I came up with. It was a good start for our first go around.
I'm going to Fenway Park tonight to watch my favorite baseball team. I don't usually sleep much anyway, so that shouldn't be an issue tomorrow. I hope to see everyone at tomorrow's open house. It starts at 6:00 and goes until 7:30.
Our Mr. or Little Miss stories are due tomorrow. Anyone who didn't finish today has that for added homework.
Have a good night. Go Sox!
Mr. Shea
Thursday, September 15, 2011
NWEA testing today
Hello,
We had our first library class of the year today. Hopefully you will see a different book or two make it home in the book bag tonight. I noticed most of the kids are into activity books: origami, magic tricks, etc. I like those too, but I'm going to try to sway them into taking books that require more (or at least some) reading as we move forward.
We took the NWEA math test this afternoon as well. I was impressed by the effort that most of the kids put into the test. Hopefully it will give us an accurate reflection of what they know and don't know. I was struck by the number of algebra problems that I saw. They should get more comfortable with that as the year goes on.
Another day of indoor recess, so your child might come home with a little energy. At least it cleared up so they can run around a bit.
First (counting) spelling test of the year tomorrow. Your child should have ten words that they are working on. Most of the words come from words that they missed last week, so a little practice is needed.
I'm going to the Edward Hopper show at the Bowdoin Museum of Art tonight. I'm looking out at my wife waiting in the parking lot as I type this. I think I'll stop here.
Have a good night.
Mr. Shea
We had our first library class of the year today. Hopefully you will see a different book or two make it home in the book bag tonight. I noticed most of the kids are into activity books: origami, magic tricks, etc. I like those too, but I'm going to try to sway them into taking books that require more (or at least some) reading as we move forward.
We took the NWEA math test this afternoon as well. I was impressed by the effort that most of the kids put into the test. Hopefully it will give us an accurate reflection of what they know and don't know. I was struck by the number of algebra problems that I saw. They should get more comfortable with that as the year goes on.
Another day of indoor recess, so your child might come home with a little energy. At least it cleared up so they can run around a bit.
First (counting) spelling test of the year tomorrow. Your child should have ten words that they are working on. Most of the words come from words that they missed last week, so a little practice is needed.
I'm going to the Edward Hopper show at the Bowdoin Museum of Art tonight. I'm looking out at my wife waiting in the parking lot as I type this. I think I'll stop here.
Have a good night.
Mr. Shea
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Early release
Hello,
The speaker was pretty good last night. He spoke about the original blueprint for public education being to weed out the laborers from the thinkers. He said that in the 1960's, 83% of jobs in the U.S. were low skilled labor jobs. Currently that number is down to 13%. He concluded that this is the first time in history that the moral thing to do: educate all of our kids to a high level, is also the necessary thing to do.
It was an early release day, so not much homework tonight. Besides math, there is only the usual 20 minutes of reading. It is tough to get too motivated on a day that gives you a beautiful afternoon and some extra time to play in it. I didn't want to burden them with too much.
I took part in their physical education class today. Ms. D'Agostino does a great job of getting them to be active in a way that incorporates some of the bigger lessons that we are trying to teach. We played a type of freeze tag where some students had a "helping heart" to toss to unfreeze their teammates. As we played, there was much less choosiness in who was getting helped. Students began helping anyone and everyone. It was nice to see.
I gave students the choice to choose their next seating assignment in class. Some chose to sit next to their best friend(s). We'll see how wise that was beginning tomorrow.
Thanks for reading,
Mr. Shea
The speaker was pretty good last night. He spoke about the original blueprint for public education being to weed out the laborers from the thinkers. He said that in the 1960's, 83% of jobs in the U.S. were low skilled labor jobs. Currently that number is down to 13%. He concluded that this is the first time in history that the moral thing to do: educate all of our kids to a high level, is also the necessary thing to do.
It was an early release day, so not much homework tonight. Besides math, there is only the usual 20 minutes of reading. It is tough to get too motivated on a day that gives you a beautiful afternoon and some extra time to play in it. I didn't want to burden them with too much.
I took part in their physical education class today. Ms. D'Agostino does a great job of getting them to be active in a way that incorporates some of the bigger lessons that we are trying to teach. We played a type of freeze tag where some students had a "helping heart" to toss to unfreeze their teammates. As we played, there was much less choosiness in who was getting helped. Students began helping anyone and everyone. It was nice to see.
I gave students the choice to choose their next seating assignment in class. Some chose to sit next to their best friend(s). We'll see how wise that was beginning tomorrow.
Thanks for reading,
Mr. Shea
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Quick blog
Hello,
This is going to be quick tonight. We read Me On the Map by Joan Sweeney together. It is about a girl and her place in the world. She shows a map of her room, and a map of her house, her street, her town, her state, her country and her world. We used this as a launching point to create a series of concentric circles that will display our places in the world. Some students may need to get their street addresses from you for their own circle project. We plan to cut out circles out of construction paper and place our picture in the middle. Each circle will represent a wider boundary in which we live: our street, town, county, state, country, continent, etc.
In math most classes are working on a combination of place value and addition. A few of my students definitely need more practice rewriting horizontal addition problems so that digits are lined up properly.
Reminder: Tomorrow is a 1pm release.
I've got to run. I'm going to dinner then I'll be attending a:
This is going to be quick tonight. We read Me On the Map by Joan Sweeney together. It is about a girl and her place in the world. She shows a map of her room, and a map of her house, her street, her town, her state, her country and her world. We used this as a launching point to create a series of concentric circles that will display our places in the world. Some students may need to get their street addresses from you for their own circle project. We plan to cut out circles out of construction paper and place our picture in the middle. Each circle will represent a wider boundary in which we live: our street, town, county, state, country, continent, etc.
In math most classes are working on a combination of place value and addition. A few of my students definitely need more practice rewriting horizontal addition problems so that digits are lined up properly.
Reminder: Tomorrow is a 1pm release.
I've got to run. I'm going to dinner then I'll be attending a:
SPECIAL EVENING WITH AUTHOR SPEAKER, JAMIE VOLLMER
AN INVITATION TO ATTEND A SPECIAL EVENING WITH AUTHOR
SPEAKER, JAMIE VOLLMER
WHEN? SEPTEMBER 13th at 7 P.M.
WHERE? CROOKER THEATER – BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL
FREE ADMISSION
Maybe I'll see you there.
Thanks for reading,
Mr. Shea
SPEAKER, JAMIE VOLLMER
WHEN? SEPTEMBER 13th at 7 P.M.
WHERE? CROOKER THEATER – BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL
FREE ADMISSION
Maybe I'll see you there.
Thanks for reading,
Mr. Shea
Monday, September 12, 2011
The sea was rough that day, my friend
It was a rough day. I felt like we had gotten the ball rolling by the end of last week, but we reverted to some old habits today. Expectations were forgotten. Work was seen as a nuisance. I was being tested constantly. There was a lot of learned helplessness in our class today. That doesn't play well here. We'll get it going again. I'm relentless. I won't give in. I refuse to help those who don't help themselves. I will not let them give up as soon as they face adversity. Show me some effort and I'll show some in return.
One of my jobs is to turn these children into independent thinkers. It may be one of my tougher jobs, but I am committed. Most of my talks early in the year revolve around this idea of them taking responsibility and being more independent. It's in their best interest. It's important. All I ask from you is to give them a little responsibility at home. I'm sure many of you do. If not, just take a look at all of the things that you do for them in a given day, and see if there isn't anything that they could do for themselves instead. Maybe they can clear the dinner table or help make their lunch for the next day. Ask them to make their bed (never a favorite). Insist that they order for themselves in a restaurant. Small steps, that's all. There is good and bad in getting older. While on the one hand you can ride the Tilt-a-Whirl without an adult, on the other hand you may also have to empty the litter box.
The schedule was all jumbled due to testing today. Math got cut short by twenty five minutes. We took the NWEA reading test this afternoon which caused us to miss our literacy block entirely. Kids love consistency, so I don't think our schedule did them any favors. Most of the week is messed up as well. Our NWEA math test, originally scheduled for today, is now tentatively scheduled for Thursday. Wednesday is an early release day (1:00) which some kids react to like a werewolf to a full moon. We'll see. I'll remain consistent, and they'll get it sooner or later.
Please don't jump to any conclusions by reading the blog. I make some generalities, but know that every child is different, and I try to treat them as such. Please email me if you have any specific concerns or questions. Another generality that I can make is that most parents that read the blog are doing a great job. Parenting and teaching aren't exact sciences. We do our best to do what is best for our children. Thank you for your efforts.
And thank you for reading,
Mr. Shea
One of my jobs is to turn these children into independent thinkers. It may be one of my tougher jobs, but I am committed. Most of my talks early in the year revolve around this idea of them taking responsibility and being more independent. It's in their best interest. It's important. All I ask from you is to give them a little responsibility at home. I'm sure many of you do. If not, just take a look at all of the things that you do for them in a given day, and see if there isn't anything that they could do for themselves instead. Maybe they can clear the dinner table or help make their lunch for the next day. Ask them to make their bed (never a favorite). Insist that they order for themselves in a restaurant. Small steps, that's all. There is good and bad in getting older. While on the one hand you can ride the Tilt-a-Whirl without an adult, on the other hand you may also have to empty the litter box.
The schedule was all jumbled due to testing today. Math got cut short by twenty five minutes. We took the NWEA reading test this afternoon which caused us to miss our literacy block entirely. Kids love consistency, so I don't think our schedule did them any favors. Most of the week is messed up as well. Our NWEA math test, originally scheduled for today, is now tentatively scheduled for Thursday. Wednesday is an early release day (1:00) which some kids react to like a werewolf to a full moon. We'll see. I'll remain consistent, and they'll get it sooner or later.
Please don't jump to any conclusions by reading the blog. I make some generalities, but know that every child is different, and I try to treat them as such. Please email me if you have any specific concerns or questions. Another generality that I can make is that most parents that read the blog are doing a great job. Parenting and teaching aren't exact sciences. We do our best to do what is best for our children. Thank you for your efforts.
And thank you for reading,
Mr. Shea
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Whoops, one more thing
We have NWEA MAP testing next Monday and Friday afternoons. Please try to send your child into school well rested and well fed. We will be tested in math on Monday and reading on Friday. This is the district wide test that we take every fall and every March. I have my opinions about it which I will gladly share, if asked.
Good night
Good night
Later than I planned.
Hello,
More apologies on the lateness of this. The best laid plans...
In short, there are still so many loose threads that we are trying to figure out in this school, that most after school time is spent meeting with colleagues and talking things out.
I gave the class a bit of a break this afternoon. In the timeslot that will be library when they are up and running, I took them outside and had them draw three new foursquare courts. Each group had a couple measuring tapes, yardsticks, and chalk. They turned out really well.
Book orders went home today. You can order online or pay by cash or check. Our online address is www.scholastic.com/bookclubs. On the parent page, click the "Register" button in the "First Time Here?" section. Register for your own name and password. When prompted, enter the one-time Class Activation Code: J36TM. This code will make sure that your order is sent to me. Any questions, just email me.
We continued working on our geography picture dictionaries today. We talked about geysers, but the Old Faithful Live Webcam was down. Another day, I hope. Plains, isthmus and badlands were also covered.
We somehow got into a discussion of solids, liquids and gases. I think it evolved from a discussion about driving across the great plains to the Mile High City and then into the mountains. From there I talked about climbing Wheeler Peak in NM on the 4th of July one year. (It snowed on top.) It was the highest I had ever been and I talked about the lack of oxygen that I felt climbing it. Someone asked my favorite question: "Why?" We got into the weight of gases, which of course meant a short talk about molecules in solids, liquids and gases. I had them all around the room being molecules bouncing off one another. They got in tight to be the solids, looser as a liquid, and far apart as the gas. It is a good precursor to how I explain how crystals are formed that I'll give in Geology.
These tangents, that really aren't that far off, are my favorite part of teaching. How can I not love my job? Our day can take us anywhere. I didn't know that we would be making foursquares until I saw thirty kids lined up at the one court this morning. A few random questions in class and off we go into a new topic. One student started a question this afternoon with, "I don't know if this is related, but...." I could feel my smile forming before he finished. I think I started my answer with, "Yeah, it is a bit off-topic, but it's fantastic..."
I want students to write down any three personal connections that they can make to the book Witches so far. For example: I like tree houses too. I went on a vacation with my grandmother once. I've stayed in a hotel. etc.
6:30. I'm done.
Thanks for reading.
Mr. Shea
More apologies on the lateness of this. The best laid plans...
In short, there are still so many loose threads that we are trying to figure out in this school, that most after school time is spent meeting with colleagues and talking things out.
I gave the class a bit of a break this afternoon. In the timeslot that will be library when they are up and running, I took them outside and had them draw three new foursquare courts. Each group had a couple measuring tapes, yardsticks, and chalk. They turned out really well.
Book orders went home today. You can order online or pay by cash or check. Our online address is www.scholastic.com/bookclubs. On the parent page, click the "Register" button in the "First Time Here?" section. Register for your own name and password. When prompted, enter the one-time Class Activation Code: J36TM. This code will make sure that your order is sent to me. Any questions, just email me.
We continued working on our geography picture dictionaries today. We talked about geysers, but the Old Faithful Live Webcam was down. Another day, I hope. Plains, isthmus and badlands were also covered.
We somehow got into a discussion of solids, liquids and gases. I think it evolved from a discussion about driving across the great plains to the Mile High City and then into the mountains. From there I talked about climbing Wheeler Peak in NM on the 4th of July one year. (It snowed on top.) It was the highest I had ever been and I talked about the lack of oxygen that I felt climbing it. Someone asked my favorite question: "Why?" We got into the weight of gases, which of course meant a short talk about molecules in solids, liquids and gases. I had them all around the room being molecules bouncing off one another. They got in tight to be the solids, looser as a liquid, and far apart as the gas. It is a good precursor to how I explain how crystals are formed that I'll give in Geology.
These tangents, that really aren't that far off, are my favorite part of teaching. How can I not love my job? Our day can take us anywhere. I didn't know that we would be making foursquares until I saw thirty kids lined up at the one court this morning. A few random questions in class and off we go into a new topic. One student started a question this afternoon with, "I don't know if this is related, but...." I could feel my smile forming before he finished. I think I started my answer with, "Yeah, it is a bit off-topic, but it's fantastic..."
I want students to write down any three personal connections that they can make to the book Witches so far. For example: I like tree houses too. I went on a vacation with my grandmother once. I've stayed in a hotel. etc.
6:30. I'm done.
Thanks for reading.
Mr. Shea
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Rain, rain, go away. Indoor recess is for the birds.
Hello,
I finally have a night without a meeting. I try to get this done by 5:00, but meetings often get in the way.
The big news today was the new math classes. Your child has been placed into a math class with children of like abilites. We made our decisions based on NWEA scores, NECAP scores, and last year's teacher's recommendations. All groups will be covering the same concepts, but the speed and depth of that coverage will depend on the group. We will be allowing for students to move into other classes based on progress levels. Please contact me with any questions about this. I know that ability grouping for math was not common practice at all of the former elementary schools. I personally believe that it is the best way to give each child the best chance for success.
Speaking of contacting me, my school email is sshea@brunswick.k12.me.us. The email that shows at the top of this blog is my personal email address. I would prefer that you use the school address, only because that is the one that I check multiple times per day. My gmail account only gets checked at night. The website didn't allow me to post my alternative email since it is a google run blog.
I think I misspoke a bit yesterday. I shouldn't have said that I lecture the kids. That implies a long, drawn out, rehearsed speech. I think it is more accurate to say that I rant. They are often impromptu, impassioned, and generally not very long. The class will be hearing the importance of reading rant a few times this year.
We started our geography picture dictionaries today. I'll be interested to know if your child can tell you what an archipelago, canal, fiord, or bay is. We started with some random ones, I know. The goal is to make three dimensional islands in a couple weeks (out of homemade play dough) that show off our knowledge of land forms. More odd ones to come: isthmus, mesa, tundra, butte, atoll, and delta.
My new math class got a look at what one million cubic centimeters would look like. I built a giant cube out of pvc piping. I'll be sharing it with other classes in the days to come.
It seemed like the first gym class of the year went well. The music teacher spoke to me about how fantastic our class did on Friday afternoon. They sang the county song. That one is a little bit tougher to memorize than the continent song. I'd be interested to know if you ask your child what the seven continents are, how many answer in song. I bet they also know how many counties are in our state, but I'd be impressed if they can recite all sixteen after only one music session.
Already 5:00. It is tough to get this done in a timely manner with all of the drop ins.
Have a great night. Thanks for reading.
Mr. Shea
I finally have a night without a meeting. I try to get this done by 5:00, but meetings often get in the way.
The big news today was the new math classes. Your child has been placed into a math class with children of like abilites. We made our decisions based on NWEA scores, NECAP scores, and last year's teacher's recommendations. All groups will be covering the same concepts, but the speed and depth of that coverage will depend on the group. We will be allowing for students to move into other classes based on progress levels. Please contact me with any questions about this. I know that ability grouping for math was not common practice at all of the former elementary schools. I personally believe that it is the best way to give each child the best chance for success.
Speaking of contacting me, my school email is sshea@brunswick.k12.me.us. The email that shows at the top of this blog is my personal email address. I would prefer that you use the school address, only because that is the one that I check multiple times per day. My gmail account only gets checked at night. The website didn't allow me to post my alternative email since it is a google run blog.
I think I misspoke a bit yesterday. I shouldn't have said that I lecture the kids. That implies a long, drawn out, rehearsed speech. I think it is more accurate to say that I rant. They are often impromptu, impassioned, and generally not very long. The class will be hearing the importance of reading rant a few times this year.
We started our geography picture dictionaries today. I'll be interested to know if your child can tell you what an archipelago, canal, fiord, or bay is. We started with some random ones, I know. The goal is to make three dimensional islands in a couple weeks (out of homemade play dough) that show off our knowledge of land forms. More odd ones to come: isthmus, mesa, tundra, butte, atoll, and delta.
My new math class got a look at what one million cubic centimeters would look like. I built a giant cube out of pvc piping. I'll be sharing it with other classes in the days to come.
It seemed like the first gym class of the year went well. The music teacher spoke to me about how fantastic our class did on Friday afternoon. They sang the county song. That one is a little bit tougher to memorize than the continent song. I'd be interested to know if you ask your child what the seven continents are, how many answer in song. I bet they also know how many counties are in our state, but I'd be impressed if they can recite all sixteen after only one music session.
Already 5:00. It is tough to get this done in a timely manner with all of the drop ins.
Have a great night. Thanks for reading.
Mr. Shea
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Sorry so late!!
Hello,
I'm sorry this is so late. I'll be fast and brief to get this out by 7:00. I had a math meeting that just ended. We are breaking up the classes by like abilities for math. Tomorrow will be your child's first day with their new math teacher. A couple will have me, but not many.
The class got their first taste of my "lectures" today. I spoke to them on the importance of reading. I'll give you my "Get the TV out of their bedroom" blog post another day.
We did a couple of logic problems today. Many students took home the next problems in the sequence. The problems will get harder and harder as they go. I am encouraging everyone to do at least one a week, but they are optional. I introduced the problems shortly after I gave a little talk on being responsible for their own education. I hope that they won't choose to do the minimum.
We have gym tomorrow. I hope no one forgets sneakers. Ms. D'Agostino wouldn't be happy.
We played a dice rolling game in math this morning. Students rolled two dice at a time and kept adding up the totals. The object was to get as close to fifty as possible without going over. I can see that we need a lot of practice adding, even just single digits. Very few students could add up numbers like 6 + 7 without having to count it out. I recommend games at home that use cards or multiple dice. Yahtzee, monopoly, cribbage, etc. all are great ways to get some of these basics to be second nature without them feeling like they are doing school work.
We are starting a class read: Witches by Roald Dahl. I don't plan on doing big class reads like this, but I like to start out with everyone reading the same material so I can make my expectations clear across the board. We will be doing most of the reading in class so that all levels can reach a certain level of understanding.
I have more to say, but since it is nearly a quarter past seven I will leave it for tomorrow.
Have a good night.
Mr. Shea
I'm sorry this is so late. I'll be fast and brief to get this out by 7:00. I had a math meeting that just ended. We are breaking up the classes by like abilities for math. Tomorrow will be your child's first day with their new math teacher. A couple will have me, but not many.
The class got their first taste of my "lectures" today. I spoke to them on the importance of reading. I'll give you my "Get the TV out of their bedroom" blog post another day.
We did a couple of logic problems today. Many students took home the next problems in the sequence. The problems will get harder and harder as they go. I am encouraging everyone to do at least one a week, but they are optional. I introduced the problems shortly after I gave a little talk on being responsible for their own education. I hope that they won't choose to do the minimum.
We have gym tomorrow. I hope no one forgets sneakers. Ms. D'Agostino wouldn't be happy.
We played a dice rolling game in math this morning. Students rolled two dice at a time and kept adding up the totals. The object was to get as close to fifty as possible without going over. I can see that we need a lot of practice adding, even just single digits. Very few students could add up numbers like 6 + 7 without having to count it out. I recommend games at home that use cards or multiple dice. Yahtzee, monopoly, cribbage, etc. all are great ways to get some of these basics to be second nature without them feeling like they are doing school work.
We are starting a class read: Witches by Roald Dahl. I don't plan on doing big class reads like this, but I like to start out with everyone reading the same material so I can make my expectations clear across the board. We will be doing most of the reading in class so that all levels can reach a certain level of understanding.
I have more to say, but since it is nearly a quarter past seven I will leave it for tomorrow.
Have a good night.
Mr. Shea
Friday, September 2, 2011
We survived!
Hello,
I don't usually post a Friday blog. My mind works better with a day off. I come in every Sunday to pick up the pieces, do my correcting, and plan for the next week. Thank you for understanding.
Have a great weekend.
Mr. Shea
I don't usually post a Friday blog. My mind works better with a day off. I come in every Sunday to pick up the pieces, do my correcting, and plan for the next week. Thank you for understanding.
Have a great weekend.
Mr. Shea
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Hello and welcome!
I'm happy to see that they took down the filter block on my blog so that I can get some info to you before dinner. We had a bit more productive day today. That first day is so full of rules and procedures that my throat gets tired from talking. I tried to move them around enough to make it bearable. I'm sorry that I couldn't write the blog. I have a lot of information to get to you at the start of the year. I hope I didn't lose my audience before we even get rolling.
Thank you to the parents who filled in the emergency cards and other forms and had them brought in this morning. You had more homework than your child(ren) last night. I'm asking all of my students to bring their assignment book and homework folder home with them every night. Many put the two in their binder, which is great. They should write in their assignment(s) under the correct date, and in enough detail that they can easily accomplish their task(s). The website homework calendar is more for your benefit, but can be used as a back up.
We played a turn of the century game this morning called Androscoggin. In Androscoggin the goal is to make as many words as you can using a given set of letters from a word or phrase. We used the letters from WELCOME BACK. Using those letters, try to see if you can come up with more words than the class total of 57. They did very well. Words like MEEK count because there are two Es, one M and one K in the phrase. BELL wouldn't count because there is only one L. Got it? Give it a try. I'm sure your child would like to look over your shoulder while you try.
We had a fire drill today. Wow, is that loud! I covered my ears walking down the stairwell along with many of the students. The class did very well going where they were supposed to and keeping quiet while I was one of the last adults out of the building.
Tonight's homework is a two-sided math sheet and a little reading. We will be starting reading logs next week. I require a minimum of five nights of reading per week, twenty minutes a night. The kids can choose which nights. This way if they are busy for a night or two they can plan ahead. I thought I would get them warmed up with a twenty minute session tonight. The math sheet involves a bit of addition and logic. We started the sheet in school to make sure they knew what to do. It shouldn't take too long.
We will be changing classes for our math block starting on Tuesday. Sorting is being done based on the NECAPs, the NWEA, and teacher's input. The plan is to put children with like abilities together. We can always shift high or low performers to a class that will challenge them best.
I have a lot more to say, but I see the time is already nearing six. I try to get this out before dinner time, so I'm going to stop here. As long as my access continues, I will usually get this out sooner. Once I get the software to do this on the school site, it will be easier on all of us. You won't have to go to www.mrsheasclassblog.blogspot.com, and I won't have to worry about the ever changing blocking schedule of our school filter.
All for now. Please call me on my cell if you have any questions or concerns about your child or school. 841-2599.
I liked the class yesterday, but I liked them twice as much today. I'm sure I'll love them by the end of next week.
Thanks for reading,
Mr. Shea
Thank you to the parents who filled in the emergency cards and other forms and had them brought in this morning. You had more homework than your child(ren) last night. I'm asking all of my students to bring their assignment book and homework folder home with them every night. Many put the two in their binder, which is great. They should write in their assignment(s) under the correct date, and in enough detail that they can easily accomplish their task(s). The website homework calendar is more for your benefit, but can be used as a back up.
We played a turn of the century game this morning called Androscoggin. In Androscoggin the goal is to make as many words as you can using a given set of letters from a word or phrase. We used the letters from WELCOME BACK. Using those letters, try to see if you can come up with more words than the class total of 57. They did very well. Words like MEEK count because there are two Es, one M and one K in the phrase. BELL wouldn't count because there is only one L. Got it? Give it a try. I'm sure your child would like to look over your shoulder while you try.
We had a fire drill today. Wow, is that loud! I covered my ears walking down the stairwell along with many of the students. The class did very well going where they were supposed to and keeping quiet while I was one of the last adults out of the building.
Tonight's homework is a two-sided math sheet and a little reading. We will be starting reading logs next week. I require a minimum of five nights of reading per week, twenty minutes a night. The kids can choose which nights. This way if they are busy for a night or two they can plan ahead. I thought I would get them warmed up with a twenty minute session tonight. The math sheet involves a bit of addition and logic. We started the sheet in school to make sure they knew what to do. It shouldn't take too long.
We will be changing classes for our math block starting on Tuesday. Sorting is being done based on the NECAPs, the NWEA, and teacher's input. The plan is to put children with like abilities together. We can always shift high or low performers to a class that will challenge them best.
I have a lot more to say, but I see the time is already nearing six. I try to get this out before dinner time, so I'm going to stop here. As long as my access continues, I will usually get this out sooner. Once I get the software to do this on the school site, it will be easier on all of us. You won't have to go to www.mrsheasclassblog.blogspot.com, and I won't have to worry about the ever changing blocking schedule of our school filter.
All for now. Please call me on my cell if you have any questions or concerns about your child or school. 841-2599.
I liked the class yesterday, but I liked them twice as much today. I'm sure I'll love them by the end of next week.
Thanks for reading,
Mr. Shea
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