Booking with the Pack Donations

Our class would like to thank all of the people who have donated books to our classroom library.  We have received over 250 donations from stand-up citizens of our community (Katie and Cathy) as well as from an incredible program through NC State University (Kristen Mattox (student athlete intern) coordinated by Jennifer MacNab).  This program strives to promote and improve literacy among all members of the NC community through collection and redistribution of books. 

A huge sense of enthusiasm has swept across the classroom and the desire to read is the highest its ever been.  We all know that if "today you're a reader, tomorrow you're a leader!"  We appreciate everything you've given us!!!

Gotta Keep Reading

Click here!!!

Gazetter Memo Apr. 26-30

What our class needs:
• $1-$3 prizes for the EOG Prize Wall
***Prizes= Rewards for trying so hard!

Sometimes, this time of the year can be very frustrating and nerve-racking for you and your child. Here are some strategies to support your child at home:

BEFORE TEST:
• Praise your child for work well done.
• Assure your child knows that you value a good education.
• Encourage your child to take responsibility for homework and class work.

WEEK OF TESTING:
• See that your child is rested and eats breakfast.
• Make sure they arrive to school on time and that they are relaxed.
• Do not send them if they are sick.
• Do not make any appointments on test days.
• Bring a light jacket to stay comfortable.

End of Grade Test

The North Carolina End of Grade (EOG) test is coming up, and I want each of my students to be as successful as possible. Therefore, preparation is key! Here are a few resources borrowed from Mr. Ray's Tar Heels that may help them get ready for the EOGs coming up in two weeks!

Online Math and Reading questions...with immediate feedback!!!

The Texas Education Agency has an archive of released test questions. The Texas Standard Course of Study is very similar to North Carolina's, and therefore has similar test items.

The North Carolina Department of Education's released sample items for reading.

The North Carolina Department of Education's released sample items for mathematics.

A website from North Carolina State University that contains interactive sample questions aligned with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, the End of Grade Test, and Bloom's Taxonomy.

Well's Elementary has a wonderful site with great tips and strategies.

An article on the effects of EOG's on parents, students and teachers...everyone is stressed.

Super Star Lock-In

On April 16, students who had improved in academics or behavior or students who had continued keeping their grades up, were rewarded with an invitation to the Super Star Lock-In!!!

These student listened to Mrs. Jenkins read Micheal Recycle in honor of the up and coming "Earth Day."

They created two banners to remind students at school the importance of Going Green and helping to save our planet. 

Afterwards all the third graders played games outside and in the gym.  They cooled down with popsicles and then ate mouth-watering pizza from Sophie's. 

Finally, all the kids changed into their pajamas and watched "The Bee Movie" in the mega-huge library theater. 

They had so much fun and we did too!!!  Keep persevering and remain courageous risk-takers!!!   

Soil Scientist

The students had an amazing time with the Soil Scientist! They even got to take home a few goodies to share with you all.  Here are some pictures of some of the experiments we did together:

Mrs. "G"

Which soil holds the most water?!??!?  It's definitely NOT humus!

Magic Diaper Absorbing Powder

Hydrophobic Sand

Earthworm Races

Soil Sugar Tubes

Volcano Eruptions

Study Island

Parents...I just wanted to make sure you all know that your child CAN get on study island from home. This has rigorous academic content that is both fun and engaging.  It is research-based with proven results for all students. It is also very easy to use!!!  We don't always get this program every year, so I hope you will be able to take advantage of it while we do have it.  Your child already knows thier username and password since we have been using this program at school.  Click here to log on now!!!

Edible Soil Party Pics!

Eating dirt...what a delicacy!  The class really enjoyed reflecting on our soil unit by making and eating these tasty little treats...have you ever tried clay, humus and sand?!?!? 

Before

The Masterpiece

The Aftermath

Oh...and yes...I had some too!!!

Germinators!!!

Who knew I had a bunch of green thumbs in my class?!?!?  Here are some pictures of a few students who really know how to get their lima beans germinating!!!

And the winners for the best germinating seeds are:

JC

AB