Parents,

I hope you had a nice holiday!

In math we just took our first common assessment in geometry. This is a separate percentage weight in your child's tests/quizzes portion of his/her grade. We will be starting measurement and continue working on number sense especially fractions as we go. Students need to know their math facts and it is becoming very difficult to work on some math concepts if they don't.   Again, your child has a blue math book (hard bound) that he/she may take home for a reference. My math lessons are in your child's binder that is used for Math and Social Studies.  If there is a math question or your child does not understand a lesson that is the first place he/she should look.  I do not expect you to have to teach the lesson a second time.

The geometry assessments have been graded and gone over with your child. He/she was able to take this assessment twice as we did very poorly the first time. A copy of the first page of the answer sheet with your child's grade will be coming home for you to sign. These tests are a good indication of how well students will do on the state test in the spring. They are very important and should be completed with effort. The test itself cannot come home as we use the questions from year to year.

In Social Studies we have studied the history of where explorers settled in North America and what their influences are currently. The next unit we will study is Government. Students complete most of their Social Studies work in the room with partners or as a group activity. Because we do not have a book for each student to take home, plenty of time is given for assignments to be completed. Students are doing a nice job working together, reading together, and seeking help if they have questions. Learning to work with partners or in groups is an important skill for all students.

Please make sure you check with your child for notices that are sent home from the office. We have a late start day the end of January and a four day weekend beginning January 15th. Please also check to see if your child has all of the necessary supplies. If there is a need for something due to financial reasons please send a note in to me and I will help with providing supplies.

Winter is definitely here so make sure your child is dressed for the weather. We do go outside unless the wind chill is too low. The temperature in my room varies.... some days it's very warm and somedays it's very cool. I suggest your child keep a hoodie or sweater in his/her locker if it is cold. When it's warm we just do the best we can.

Build a snowman with your child!  Have a family snowball fight!  Go sledding! And...remember your child promised to shovel the drive!!!

Enjoy winter and thank you for supporting your child's education.

Mrs. Syx

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