Biography Update

Back to school already? I got spoiled with all of the 3 day weekends. This past week, students have been busy working on their Famous American Biographies. I was hoping for all of the students to get the organizer done in class, but some students needed more help than others. For those who did not complete the organizer or needed additional help, I sent it home this weekend to complete. On Tuesday or Wednesday we'll begin writing the information into paragraph form. Most of this will be done in class, but it may also be sent home for parents to revise. I'd like to have the biographies typed and completed by Thursday, March 7. Speeches will begin around March 11. Students have a few options on how they would like to present their speech:

1. They may read their report to the class
2. Memorize what they want to say (using note cards for support)
3. Or, I have a generic "fill in the blank" speech template for them to use

If you would like your child to use the template, please let me know. I don't want to hand it out to everyone because if 23 speeches all sound the same, it may get a bit boring for the class. Please have your child practice in front of you several times before they present it to the class.

On another note, tomorrow we'll be heading the the Cabrillo College Planetarium. We began talking about the Solar System last week and students have a lot of questions. They are all very excited. I mentioned that we would leave at 12:20, but I'm thinking 12:45 would be better. If you are a chaperone, please show up between 12:40-12:45. The presentation will begin around 1:10.

Thanks again for all you do!

Another 3 Day Weekend!

Hello Parents,

I hope you're all enjoying this nice 3 day weekend. I could get use to this schedule! Our field trip to the Cabrillo Planetarium is coming up next Monday Feb.
25. I have plenty of parent drivers signed up to go, thank you! Unfortunately, I haven't been able to cover the Solar System, it's on my list of things to do this week along with the Biographies. Most of the students began taking notes on their famous American. However, some are still looking for research and were able to get on the classroom computers and print out some information. Please make sure your child brings his/her articles and/or books to class Tuesday. I had several kids leave it at home last week and they were not able to start. My goal is to have the students finish their note-taking and written draft by the end of the month. Then, I can have some of them begin typing it in class. I only have 4 computers, so if some can do this at home, that would be great. I know this seems overwhelming, but having the kids type their own report would be a good experience for them. I would like all reports and presentations done by Spring Break. I'll keep you posted on their progress.

Due to the Monday holidays back to back, I will not be sending home a weekly report with your child this week. I will send one home the following Monday.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Biographies

Hello! I'm sure your child has mentioned to you about an upcoming biography project. I will send home letters tomorrow with each student explaining what is expected of him/her along with a scoring rubric. Most of the work will be done in class, but they may need help finding research on the internet or a good book. Students will have a solid month to work on their project. Please check Mrs. Mayer's blog for additional information.

I am also sending home a field trip form tomorrow for the Cabrillo College Planetarium. Please let me know if you are interested in being a chaperone. This trip will extend beyond the school day. The presentation will begin at approximately 1:15 and end about 2:15. I need a driver willing to take students to Magic Apple After-school Program (off Trout Gulch). The remaining drivers will bring students back to school.

Hope you are enjoying Super Bowl Sunday. See you tomorrow!