Hello parents! Thank you so much for your continued support!

Here's what the children will be learning next week:

Math—The class will write number names for 100 more/less and 10 more/less. They will also identify 100 more and 100 less on a blank hundreds chart. Students will also compare 3-digit numbers using base ten representations. We will also practice putting 3- digit numbers in order.

Reading—Students will be able to recount or describe key ideas from a text read aloud or information presented orally and through other media. We will also be able to compare and contrast two or more versions of the same story by different authors. Classes will also be able to acknowledge differences in the points of view of characters, including by speaking in a different voice for each character when reading dialogue aloud. Students will also be able to use beginning dictionaries.

Writing— Students have finished writing their personal narratives, and they will now begin writing informational text.

Science—We will be able to recognize and describe the stages of the water cycle.

Social Studies—Students will identify and explain how leadership positions and organizations help maintain safety and order.

Spelling—Our focus will be on words that have the long e sound.

Links to Check Out: http://www.ducksters.com/science/solids_liquids_gases.php (Science) http://www.sciencekids.co.nz/gamesactivities/gases.html (Science) http://www.abcya.com/interactive_100_number_chart.htm (Math) http://www.playkidsgames.com/games/mathfact/mathFact.htm (Math) http://www.choosemyplate.gov/kids/index.html (Writing/Health) http://pbskids.org/storyfactory/ (Writing) http://www.funbrain.com/brain/ReadingBrain/ReadingBrain.html (Reading) We wanted to share Ritchie Park’s homework policy with you. Homework should take between 15 and 20 minutes. This does not include the 15 minutes of reading each evening and the basic facts practice. If you are finding that it is taking your child longer to complete the homework, please let his or her teacher know.

We also wanted to give parents a better understanding of our math curriculum. Attached is part 1 of the math newsletter. Our math curriculum is very rigorous, and we do work on providing enrichment for students. However, we have very strict guidelines in terms of this enrichment. We must make sure that before students are enriched, they are proficient in five different strands. We call this the UCARE Model (U-understanding, C-computing, A-applying, R-reasoning, E-engaging). Students must be proficient in understanding, computing, applying, reasoning, and engaging. When a child is enriched, it is still on the topics that we are working on in second grade. We do not move onto the third grade curriculum.

Please remember that Wednesday, September 24th is a half day for students. Students will be dismissed at 12:35 PM. Thank you!

There is no school for students on Thursday, September 25th.

Thank you to all of the parents who have sent in the $4.00 for the agenda book. If you have not sent in the money and would still like to do so, it is not too late. Thank you!

Have a wonderful weekend!