http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php Copyright 2012, Mrs. DaBica Mrs. DaBica en-US SPHPBLOG 0.4.8 http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120515-202210
Hi!
Yes, we are ppping away. Almost all kids have handed in a rough draft for revisions. Almost all have their glossary and interviews completed. This week the kids should be working on their presentation boards! Double check the calenders that were prepared to help you all at night! I hope this organization will help prevent last minute craziness!

Reading project for the month due on 5/31!
Math sheets for this week- two!
Grade 6 Math- review Packet

Science- we are working on our rock cycle books and will begin our volcano study next week. We will be wrapping up geology with our crystal lab and volcano celebration on the first!!!

Permission slips for ECHO, please!!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120515-202210 Mrs. DaBica Wed, 16 May 2012 00:22:10 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120506-210337
We have a busy few weeks ahead of us.

Personal Performance Project (ppp)

Finishing up first drafts, glossary of words and interview questions should be completed by Thursday!
A few of us have our first drafts finished and will be working with me on corrections;)

Students are reading PPP information and also their May book. The kids can select any project ( free choice) and questions. Many kids have failing grades because they are not completing their monthly book projects. These activites help to create readers. These homework assignments are important to success in school. Please remind your child to READ!

Math 5/6- we are wrapping up our current units by Friday. We continue to work on our facts and kids should still be practicing.

We are starting our end-of-year assessments.

Students are invited to attend summer school to help with their summer work; reading and math. I was so impressed with their maturity regarding summer school. Kuddos!

Here are some important dates:
May 11th- no school
May 29th - PPP day (8-11) and 5:00-6:00 night performance!
May 31st- Button Bay grade 5 field trip
June 4th- grade 6 graduation
June 5-7th - Mrs. DaBica with grade 6 to NH
June 8th - last day of school (1/2 day)

I am out the 10th and the 17th.

Please send emails rather than phone calls, please. It is hard to talk on the phone and may take up to 72 hours to return your call. Email is faster and works better with a classroom full of kids. There are always a few people in the room-even during lunch.
]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120506-210337 Mrs. DaBica Mon, 07 May 2012 01:03:37 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120415-210111
If the copier works, fingers crossed, we will have vocabulary this week. If not, I will prepare some spelling words and the kids will do spelling. Please check their planners for the assignment.

We are completing our RESPONSE TO LITERATURE PAPERS during our literacy time. Also during this time, we complete our NEWS PROGRAM, Spelling or vocabulary, and any literacy work ( RTL or comprehensions check-ins or reading assessments). During this time the kids can complete their TYPING PAL PROGRAM. We are very busy from 12:30-1:45. What work that does not get completed in class, goes home to be completed. Keep in mind that homework is a vital part of our program in fifth-grade.

Math work will be completed this week. PLEASE KEEP PRACTICING OUR FACTS!!!!!

Personal Performance Projects are in full swing! The kids have selected their project topics, selected books at the BIXBY, and have been given all due dates. Each child was given a schedule for home and for school. The presentation boards have been ordered and will be here before you know it. Please make sure that your child is working on this each night; this is 70% of the fifth-grader's grade.

Thanks for all you do!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120415-210111 Mrs. DaBica Mon, 16 Apr 2012 01:01:11 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120410-180927
The fifth-graders should be reading their April reading book 20-40 minutes a night to stay on track. Vacation is in two weeks and many kids have great intentions of reading over vacation. Please decide what is best for your family. Thanks.

The kids have a math assignment due for Friday and still we are practicing our facts.

Science- we have started our geology unit. The kids will be completing their Pangaea model for their next science class. We will be watching a few documentaries on the subject. The History Chanel has done a great job with HOW THE EARTH WAS MADE.

We head to the BIXBY on Friday and then we move into PPP mode. Our PPP day and night will be May 29th at 5:00. PLease plan on joining us for the community event.

Thanks for all you do!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120410-180927 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 10 Apr 2012 22:09:27 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120328-165322
Literature Projects ( the mobile) and questions- due Friday

We are finished with our unit 6 in math and we will be moving to geometry next week. I am grading the tests and they will be put into Powerschool on Friday. However, and as always, your child is given the scores first.

Let's keep practicing our facts!!!!!!

We are working on the inquiry process in science. We are using candy and super absorbers for this work. Next week we move into our GEOLOGY unit- rocks, volcanoes, plate tectonics, and two inquiry labs. We will also be building volcanoes for our unit assessment.

Thank you for checking the planners each night!

Last thing. A whole bunch of kids are having difficulties with friends and friends selecting other friends to play with. I speak daily about being kind to each other. I unable to force children to play with one another. I can stress and expect respect, however. Thanks for following up with your children, whom I like spending time with.

Thanks for all you do!!!





]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120328-165322 Mrs. DaBica Wed, 28 Mar 2012 20:53:22 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120320-140326
We have to complete our reading project for the month of March by March 30th!
This includes questions and the mobiles. Check the planners for the assignment which is stapled into their pad!

Spelling and News Program take place during literacy.

We are wrapping up our reading books in the next two weeks. We will complete a reading assessment before heading into our PPP. We are heading to the Bixby on 4/13 to get books for our topics.

Math- continue with the fact practice!

Thanks for all you!!!
]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120320-140326 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 20 Mar 2012 18:03:26 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120314-181008 Please email me -if you can't make it. Unfortunately trying to reschedule a conference will be difficult. Mrs. Maynard and I tried to accommodate all requests. Thanks for understanding. Wednesday at 12:0o-12:25 could always work for us but other days we have meetings and recess duty.

Thank you!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120314-181008 Mrs. DaBica Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:10:08 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120311-103122
So today ( Sunday) is the very last day to put grades into the gradebook, which is electronic. A few kids will not have a grade on their report card for science because they missed the assessment pieces. Have faith, these will simply be put into the third marking period and then I'll be able to mark mastery or not. The report cards will go home on Wednesday!

Monday starts the new marking period for us in 5/6!

Many kids are not reading every night and this is becoming problematic; not increasing fluency, accuracy, developing study skills and not completing assignments on time:(
PLEASE- PLEASE- PLLLEASSE... set aside 20-45 minutes a night for reading. We read everyday in reading group and throughout our content areas but an independent reading book will make all the difference in your child's literacy growth!

All the work is due on Thursday this week and not Friday!

Permission slips are due.

Friday is parent teacher conference day. All fifth-graders were given a time for a conference. As the note indicates, I am expecting you at the time I provided. I hope that if you can't make it, please call or email us. Thank you.

:)

]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120311-103122 Mrs. DaBica Sun, 11 Mar 2012 14:31:22 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120306-174300
Yay!!! ACS!!!!

Roadblocks to Reading
By Peter DeWitt on March 6, 2012 7:24 AM


In the recent issue of Educational Leadership (March 2012), Dick Allington and Rachael Gabriel wrote an article called Every Child, Every Day. They laid out six simple steps that all educators can do to get students reading. These action steps take very few resources but they do take the effort of the teachers in the classroom, which ultimately involves a supportive administrator who will look past test scores and focus on what students really need.

In our present high stakes testing dominated culture, more and more teachers are turning to test-prep. In a few states, test scores count for 20% of a teacher evaluation so we will see an increase in test prep in the classroom. Educators need to find a balance between increasing test prep and finding quality time to focus on literacy instruction, which is one of their most important jobs.

Reading should be magical. I understand that that sounds corny but think of the books that surround you as you read this blog. So many of those books take children (and adults!) on magical experiences through worlds unknown, or back in time when our countries (for my international friends!) were new. Reading creeps into every part of our lives. Reading offers us joy and takes us away from the stressors of life. We need to make sure that it does not always cause so much stress with our students that they don't want to pick up a book.

Dr. Dick Allington
If you have ever been fortunate enough to see Dr. Dick Allington present at a conference, you understand that he is a fairly blunt educator with a great deal of experience. He is a national expert in the area of literacy. The six steps that Allington and Gabriel lay out are easy enough to manage but they take time and effort. The steps are:

OUR MONTHLY INDEPENDENT READING PROJECT IN FIFTH-GRADE

Every child reads something he or she chooses - Allow students to choose books that they like AND can read. This is in addition to books that are selected by their teacher.


OUR LEVELED READING GROUPS IN FIFTH-GRADE


Every child reads accurately - Many schools have increased the time spent on ELA but increased time doesn't mean that students are allowed to read books where they can be successful (98% accuracy or better). Students need to spend time reading texts that are not too challenging. Reading books where they can be successful increase the likelihood that they will become better readers.

Every child reads something he or she understands - Allington and Gabriel say that, "Understanding what you've read is the goal of reading. But too often, struggling readers get interventions that focus on basic skills in isolation, rather than on reading connected text for meaning."


WITH MRS. MAYNARD DURING LANGUAGE ARTS

Every child writes about something personally meaningful - Most times students are asked to continue sentences after a teacher prompt. Allow students to pick the topic and write about it. Yes, there are students who will struggle finding topics which is why it is important for teachers to brainstorm with their students.

LITERATURE CIRCLES IN FIFTH-GRADE

Every child talks with peers about reading and writing - Provide students time to talk with one another about their reading and writing.


IN FIFTH-GRADE- DAILY DURING READING GROUPS

Every child listens to a fluent adult read aloud - Listening to an adult who reads fluently increases students' own fluency.




When reading the article you get a sense that there is more to the story of why educators do not take these steps already, so I asked Dick Allington to delve a little bit deeper into what he believes are the biggest roadblocks for teachers when it comes to reading.

PD: What are the major roadblocks to reaching these six goals?

DA: A major factor impeding attainment of these goals is the limited expertise most elementary educators have about what the research says on improving reading achievement. This lack of expertise extends into central office administration as well. I know of no other explanation for the widespread adoption of so much ineffective practice.

Perhaps this lack of expertise stems from the fact that no one has ever set any sensible standard for being highly qualified in reading instruction. Every elementary teacher, if they meet their state standards for elementary certification is, by default, highly qualified to teach reading under the existing law.

At the same time, the International Reading Association study of preparation of elementary teachers pretty firmly established that teachers who had completed 12 to 15 credit hours of reading coursework as part of their preparation produced reading achievement levels that exceeded those produced by experienced teachers.

Nonetheless, many states, including Tennessee where I work, certifies teachers with as few as 2 credit hours in reading coursework. In addition, according to NCES the US has one teacher who meets the IRA standards for reading specialists in every 10th elementary school! So while we supposedly have a national focus on improving student reading achievement we have very few educators who have any idea of how to go about accomplishing this goal.

PD: You mention that schools should eliminate workbooks and worksheets. Why do you believe that worksheets are still used in classrooms and what can teachers do differently?

DA: Worksheets are still around because they make teaching easier and they are commonly accepted as acceptable practice. On the other hand, we can look at the old Beginning Teacher Studies that Dave Berliner did in the 1970s. Those were the first studies demonstrating that worksheets were largely a waste of time if improving reading achievement was the goal. But worksheets today are made to look like the tests kids take and I guess that is the reason for their widespread use, that and limited awareness of the research on the ineffectiveness of worksheets.

Today's worksheets are actually worse that those used when Berliner did his study. Today children rarely have to write more than a single word when completing worksheets. In the past they wrote whole paragraphs on worksheets but no longer. So while the older worksheets didn't produce any positive effect on achievement todays worksheets seem more likely to be impairing progress in becoming a reader.

As for what to replace worksheets with, I'd ask why not have kids write instead? Write about what they've just read. Write a comparison of two characters they've read about. For instance, we have good evidence that writing during and after reading of this sort improves reading achievement but we rarely have kids write. Or engage kids in literate conversations about what they've been reading or have them engage each other.

Again, we have good evidence that even small amounts of literate conversation in lessons improve achievement. But in far too many classrooms everyone is doing the same low level worksheet silently and alone. It is enough to make me weep for the children (End of interview).


Allington, Richard L. & Rachael E. Gabriel (2012). Every Child, Every Day. Educational Leadership. The Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD). March 2012 Volume 69 Number 6


Follow Peter on Twitter.

On March 22nd Peter will be presenting at the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) Conference in Seattle and the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Annual Conference in Philadelphia on March 24th.
Categories:

* At-Risk Students ,
* Dick Allington ,
* Early Literacy

]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120306-174300 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 06 Mar 2012 22:43:00 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120305-200650
This week we have spelling and news program as part of our literacy block.

Each kid should be reading each night for 2o-4o minutes.

There is math homework for both grades.

Field trip to the Flynn on Thursday and we need to bring lunch and snacks!

Thanks for checking the planners every night. Helps keep the kids organized.]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120305-200650 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 06 Mar 2012 01:06:50 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120227-183250
I hope you all had a wonderful vacation! Now we are back in the swing of things.

I extended the reading project/ questions until Friday.

MOUSETRAP CARS- due Wednesday!

On March 1st we will start our new independent reading project. We will be completing a mobile for this project.

We go to the Flynn on March 8th!

We have a new grade five math challenge! If by March 15th a student gets a 1oo% on a multiplication or division timed test- they get a special treat!

If by the 30th a student gets a 100% on both multiplication and division- a super duper treat!!!

I gave an assessment today and many kids have regressed. This clearly shows that we are not all proficient. We need to keep practicing. I will be addressing this with families at the conferences on March 16th. If you didn't hand in your form, please do that this week!

Thanks for all you do. I really missed the kids and was so happy to return. We have a special group of kids. Thanks for lending them to us!!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120227-183250 Mrs. DaBica Mon, 27 Feb 2012 23:32:50 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120215-204333
Well, I am a few days late with my post. I am sorry for the delay. Here we go:

On Friday- fact fluency for grade 5
-grade 6 has had the last four weeks to log in 20 Hours! I hope we have done it!

We are working on vocabulary in class. We have wrapped up our literacy groups for the week.

We have been working on NEWTON's LAWs in class. We are developing our Digital Wish assignment on our science study. Neat, right? I can't wait for everyone to view the stop action movies;)

We head to the high school tomorrow with grade six and grade five heads to the high school on Friday.

Grade five will have our holiday party on Friday.

Mousetrap Cars- due 2/29/12- I hope the webpages have been viewed to help design the cars. In class we watched a series of You Tube videos to help with planning.
These cars on due for both grades on the 29th!!!

Grade Five - literature project due on 2/28/12
Hopefully the book is finished and the summary has been written. The summary is used to help build the characters and setting for the puppet show. The questions also provide information that can be used to help with the monthly project. I showed the class different ways to create the puppets and Mrs. Chamberlain showed the kids examples also!


Future Planning: Conferences are right around the corner. The marking period closes on 3/2/12. Wow! The third marking period;(

PPP- start the week right after April vacation. I am planning on taking the kids to the Bixby to get books. The students will be reading their information during literacy time. The kids will write their first drafts during literacy and then conference with Mrs. Maynard during language arts. They will then write their final drafts under her guidance. As of today, I do not have the Ferry Beach School field trip dates yet. Once I have these dates, I can plan the PPP evening;)


Thanks for all you do!!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120215-204333 Mrs. DaBica Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:43:33 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120208-191026
Our reading program continues to get stronger and stronger each year! I want to say thank you to Mrs. Maynard and Mrs. Vincent! We constantly read current research, buy new books every year, encourage nightly reading and daily reading in the various content areas. We feel great about what we do in reading with our students each and every day!!!Thank you for your continued support; reading with your students, buying them books and taking them to the library! Until next time...]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120208-191026 Mrs. DaBica Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:10:26 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120205-184614
The kids did a great job on their vocabulary tests, which asks them to use and spell the correct word in a sentence. I believe the practice that takes place during the week is really helping them to make the connections.

This week is spelling and will be due on Friday.

The kids practice spelling daily and will take a test on Friday.
We will also practice our keyboarding program.
We start new reading groups this week. The kids work on spelling, literacy assignments and keyboarding while I meet with reading groups. The new reading groups are based on our most recent QRI assessments.

The kids were given some math homework on Friday. ALWAYS BE PRACTICING FACT FLUENCY AT HOME!!!!!!!!!!!! NO FORMS BUT STILL PRACTICE. ;)

Grade 6- are to complete the ALEK math program weekly. A log in of 20 hours is required by vacation. The kids should be doing an hour each night.

SCIENCE- the kids will each be given a mousetrap for the mousetrap car assignment. The kids will need a family member or two to help. I actually just read an article in NSTA and it talked about assigning a "family" project that uses science to connect the families. Luckily, this is my second loop of the mousetrap car assignment and has been received kindly. The kids will be given instructions but may be inventive and come up with their own ideas. The overall concept is to propel the mousetrap car. Please be on the look-out for the instructions.

MOUSETRAP CARS are due for the competition on 2/29/12 at 10:15! Come watch!

CONFERENCE FORMS HAVE BEEN SENT HOME. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS CONFERENCE ROUND TAKES PLACE ON THE DAY THE DISTRICT HAS ASSIGNED FOR US- 3/16. IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN THIS FORM, PLEASE EMAIL ME OR TERI. THANKS FOR UNDERSTANDING THAT IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO MAKE ALL FAMILIES HAPPY WITH THE DATE AND TIMES. YOUR FLEXIBILITY IS MUCH APPRECIATED.

Thanks for all you do.
]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120205-184614 Mrs. DaBica Sun, 05 Feb 2012 23:46:14 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120129-193903
The literature project and questions will be handed in on Tuesday. We will present the journals on Friday. The kids should be starting their February book on Wednesday. The Bixby is a great place to get books.

My sixth graders are to log at least TWENTY hours on Alex by Feb. vacation. I think this is a very doable goal. This is the only homework for the kids.

The fifth-grade math were given their math homework on Friday. This work will be handed in on Friday.

The fifth graders will have a vocabulary assignment for homework this week. Usually we do this during the school day but we are starting a keyboarding program, which will take place during our vocabulary/spelling time. After this week, the keyboarding will become part of our daily work.

We will be starting our physics unit this week. Yippee!!!! I am looking forward to my favorite unit this year! We will be heading to the HS to do lessons with a physics class taught by Ms. Thompson ( yep, my cousin!)the Thursday and Friday before vacation.

Conferences will be taking place in March. The district schedules the day for us to have the conferences during the school day. We did our last batch of conferences after school and over several days ( which was equivalent to two school days)and we were happy to accommodate. However, this time we will have the conferences from 8:00-3:30. We hope you sign up for a conference!

Kids should be practicing facts all the time and without the "form" at this juncture. I hope that the practice has become part of everyday and the forms are not needed as reminders. Thanks!

We will be sending the 148.00 to the troops and not purchasing items for the troops. The class voted and wants to send the entire amount. Otherwise, we purchase items but shipping will eat a bit of our money. Yippee!!

The Last Lions is a documentary film that we watched in 5/6. It is a very sad tale of endangered lions, which made us all think about the animal kingdom and what they must endure. In 2020 there may not be lions in the wild due to humans ;( The fifth graders want to do a fundraiser for the BIG CATS. We may do another read-a-thon. Be on the look out.

PTA- we are to supply the PTA with a MOVIE NIGHT package. These items will be used for the PTA BINGO NIGHT. I have purchased items for the class and we are in need of a DVD and drinks. Maybe different cans of soda???

Thanks for all you do!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120129-193903 Mrs. DaBica Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:39:03 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120122-162810
The fifth-grade class will be staring new reading groups this week. A huge portion of this will be reading the newspaper. Each kid will read an article everyday, summarize it and record it. On Friday we will have a "live" show. Each kid selects their best article for the week and presents it in a news anchor style. So neat to see!

Math homework will continue for both of my math groups!

Spelling- week 6

Science -grade 6 will wrap development this week.
Geade 5- the kids have started the Physics unit. Grade 6 will start this unit on Thursday.

Book orders have been placed!

We collected 148.00 dollars for the troops- now we decide on what items to purchase!

Please send in the conference sheet, if you want a conference. Progress reports went home last week. Hope you saw the update!!!


Keep checking the planners for assignments! ]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120122-162810 Mrs. DaBica Sun, 22 Jan 2012 21:28:10 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120117-054444
Every night the kids should be reading their monthly book. In addition, they have a project and questions- all due at the end of the month!

Fact practice sheets- please sign that your child practiced. A grade is attached. Thank you.

Weekly math worksheets for all my math groups. These are due on Friday.

We have a quick science reading with questions due on Thursday for grade 6 or Friday for grade 5.

Book orders are due on Wednesday.

Read-a-thon pledges should come in this week- did you see the article in the paper???

Progress reports have been sent home. Please send an email with questions rather than a phone call. Thanks.

I am out of the building starting Wednesday at 11:35. I will return to school on Tuesday. No SCHOOL on Monday.

Conference day is March 16th. I sent home a note indicating that we will be having conferences on this day. Please sign-up if you really are serious about attending. Mrs. Maynard and I had seven no-shows:( Please call, if you can't make it. Thanks!
If you can't make that day, we can chat via email. Thanks!


Thanks for all you do!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120117-054444 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:44:44 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120106-181823
I hope the holiday was filled with fun and love. We had a successful week back at school.

Here are the assignments for the week:

Math- all grades have math
grade 5- worksheets
grade 6- ALEK

AND FACT PRACTICE!!!!


Reading our January book and working on the project( diary or journal)and questions. We spent a great deal of time going over the expectation on Tuesday. Check the planners- please!

Science- A weekly reading with questions

I am currently reassessing the pl and I will have all of this data by the middle of Jan. We continue to read during our literacy block.

SPELLING- is to be completed every day in reading group. Some kids are bringing it home, doing it all on one day and that practice is not helpful. The program is set up to be completed daily.

As we know, all of us are different. I strive to provide an environment that is successful for all students- whatever the particular needs might be. Please have the conversation with your fifth grader about differences and the individual needs that we all have. Thank you in advance.

Please be on the look out for a conference sign up sheet. We will be holding the conferences on the district's conference day, which I believe is March 16th, a Friday.

READ-A-THON!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We did it! The kids did an amazing job. I did not get all of the pledges. Please send those in and we can get started on really helping the troops.

Thanks for all you do!!!!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry120106-181823 Mrs. DaBica Fri, 06 Jan 2012 23:18:23 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111219-200641 reading projects- Wednesday

read-a-thon- Wednesday ( pjs and pillows allowed)

holiday tradition celebration on the 22nd at 12:30-1:30

gift swap 1:30 on the 22nd!


Thanks for all you do!
]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111219-200641 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 20 Dec 2011 01:06:41 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111212-172201
We are busy in grade 5.

Math- grade 5 and grade 6- Aleks.com
or worksheets.Fact fluency practice also!!!!!!!! Fill out those forms.


Science- reading for both grades due 12/15 and 12/16


Literature projects- reading every night and working on questions. Don't forget the project!





]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111212-172201 Mrs. DaBica Mon, 12 Dec 2011 22:22:01 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111205-204300
5th graders- start your new book for December. We have gone over the literature project; concentration game based on the book with pictures, words or questions and answers. Each kid will need to 15 index cards that will be cut in half to make the 30 cards needed for the concentration game.

All math kids are doing ALEKS.com as their homework assignment. One hour for fifth graders weekly and fact practice for those kids that have the chart to complete.

Grade 6- two hours weekly on ALEKS.com

IF KIDS CAN NOT ACCESS THE INTERNET- PLEASE,PLEASE,PLEASE-SEE MRS.DABICA OR MRS.TRUDO FOR WORKSHEETS IN PLACE OF THE INTERNET.

****** We had to reschedule the December 1st conferences. I sent home papers to the students that have a new schedule for the 15th of DECEMBER!!!!******

We will wrap up our human body study with our Powerpoint presentations this Thursday in grade 6 and next week in grade 5. I have sent permission slips home in regards to the puberty and sexual education lessons. PLEASE EMAIL ME WITH QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS. I CAN NEVER GET TO THE PHONE!!!!!!! I usually respond in 24 hours but some days it will be 48 hours. If you haven't heard back in 72 hours, please try me again or call the FBI!

Read-a-thon paperwork and holiday party information will go home on Wednesday or Thursday. We are hoping to raise at least 25.oo for the class- a 1.38 per person.

Holiday concert is next week.
December book project due on the 21st and the read-a-thon!
December's holiday party is on the 22nd.
No school on the 23rd!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111205-204300 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 06 Dec 2011 01:43:00 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111128-163446


We have a busy week this week.


Math-Alek for all grades ( I will check online on Friday)
Science- for both grades-hand in on Thursday or Friday depending on when you see me
Literature Projects due on Wednesday
Work for Mrs. Maynard due on Tuesday

*some kids need to still practice fact fluency- check the planner for the record sheet

Report Cards will go home on Wednesday.

Conferences are this week. I have written reminders on this blog. Please email me to schedule a conference.

Thanks!

]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111128-163446 Mrs. DaBica Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:34:46 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111120-123224
I am putting together the report cards for 5/6 graders. The marking period closed on Friday.

Report cards go home on 12/2.

If you do not have a conference scheduled ( we did this at Open House in September), please contact me and I will provide you with a date and time.

First Marking Period

Grade 5/6 Science


Our science topics have not wrapped up prior to the marking period closing. At this juncture, our study is comprised of the following stands; 6:30, 6:33,6:41 and 6:42. As we are in the middle of a unit, I can not give a grade of mastery. Your fifth/sixth grader’s numerical grade reflects the work to date, which will be combined with a unit assessment at the conclusion of the unit. At that point, I will be able to say mastery or not. This will be indicated on the next report card.


Math

In both 5th and 6th grade we focused on Numbers and Operations. A large majority of the grades are based on fact fluency ( timed and not), basic skill operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division)and the units in our book and units based on the grade level expectations. Although the math programs we use in grade five are Bridges and grade 6 are Connected Math, I use a variety of math lessons and assessments from the Vermont Math Initiative and other resources. Our goal is to get the students to the proficient level by the end of the year. Having said that, at this stage of the game, it is really hard to meet mastery as it is early in the school year.

Grade 5 and Grade 6 math homework will start to be the ALEK math program on their laptops and we will continue fact fluency homework. I am able to log on and check the time that the students are to be on the program; two hours a week. This will become a weekly grade for the grade book. Keep in mind that fact fluency sheets are collected and a grade is given for this practice at home in addition to the ALEK work. Please note that if your child will not be bringing home the laptops, then I will create a different type of homework that should average two hours a week.

Literacy Block

In grade five, we spent about 50% of out time modeling and practicing work and expectations in spelling and vocabulary during our literacy time. Starting the week of the 28th, the kids will have weekly assessments based on their word work. They will have a weekly assignment of spelling or vocabulary words.

The November 30th literature project and questions will go into the second marking period. Any assignments after the 18th, will be processed in the second marking period.

We will continue to meet in our reading groups until our books are complete. The grade you find on the report card is the reading level score and the October literature project grade. They also get a grade based on the work expectations including attitude, work completion, meeting due dates and following directions. This has also been factored into their numerical reading grade. I will reassess the reading groups before break and will have new scores for the new year and these will appear on the next report card.

Thanks for all you do!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111120-123224 Mrs. DaBica Sun, 20 Nov 2011 17:32:24 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111115-202941
Sorry for the late post. The kids do have the assignments written their planners. Just a reminder that we do the assignments in the planners every week.

Reading project: The kids should be half way done their reading books. Maybe they are finished? Super. The book project is a picture book due on the 3oth!

The kids have a project for Social Studies- they are constructing a Native American/Indian dwelling. It is due on MONDAY!!!!

I am still waiting to hear from Mr. Howe about the netbooks going home- I believe there is a make-up day. I will pass the word on- once I know.

We are working on multiplication and division word problems in math. We are still practicing our facts daily. Many kids need to continue practicing their facts- please practice for 10-15 minutes nightly. This will make a difference.

Please write a note or come to the room BEFORE the Thanksgiving feast. Let me know if you take your child early!

Thanks for all you do!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111115-202941 Mrs. DaBica Wed, 16 Nov 2011 01:29:41 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111104-104825
The kids will resume a full week next week. That means several things for your planning.

Math homework and nightly math fluency practice.
Reading every night for 15-45 minutes.

The kids are learning PowerPoint in the weeks to come. I believe we will be learning how to do use it and create throughout our SS topics. We will then put our learning to use in science class. The kids in science will each be assigned a human body system and create a presentation on their system. They will be a "doctor" informing the class of their learning; like a jigsaw. I think it is going to be awesome.

Please pack snacks for your fifth graders. They are very hungry mid morning.

Lastly, in December we will start our puberty unit. I speak weekly about cleaning our bodies and our clothing. Please know that I am doing my part in school to remind the kids about bathing daily and changing under clothing. Another thing that could help is sending your child to school with deodorant. Fifth graders play hard and with more layers on, well, they get sweaty and this can lead to unpleasant smells in the room.

Thank you for attending to this matter.

]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111104-104825 Mrs. DaBica Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:48:25 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111031-205132
I am not expecting the kids to complete anything tonight except- getting candy!!!


November 1st- the kids should start their November book. Their project and questions are due on the 29th, which is four weeks away. The time goes by fast.

There is a Home Connection that is due on the 3rd for the 5th graders.

Some kids need to practice their facts nightly and get a signature (this goes for 5th and 6th graders).

My 6th grade math group has fraction work that is due on Thursday.

All kids completed their cell project! Woot Woot!!!

We head to the Bixby tomorrow.

There is no school on Friday. I will be out on Thursday and Monday, as I am having treatment on my back- wish me luck!

Thanks for all you do!!

]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111031-205132 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:51:32 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111025-091615
The students in fifth grade have nightly homework. If you attended Open House, you received your child's current standings in math and reading. Attached were directions for nightly fact practice. As there hasn't been universal growth, we made flash cards last week. These cards were place in a sturdy folder with a recording sheet and the sheet is due weekly. This practice is imperative for success in grade 5 and all other future grades. We practice daily in school but this is not enough practice. Please practice with your fifth grader. Fact fluency is 50% of the math grade.

Thank you for helping them to be successful!!!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111025-091615 Mrs. DaBica Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:16:15 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111024-153953
Happy Monday. Wow we have a busy week ahead. Literature projects and cells are due this week!

All students that see Mrs. DaBica for math have homework & all of us are practicing our facts!

We are not having a Halloween party. I see it this way, many kids are making edible cells and after their presentation, they'll eat these cells. That is a bunch of fun and sugar!

Mrs. Maynard is doing well. She misses all the kids. Please know that she hates being absent. I will visit her again on Friday.

New Books Should Start Next Tuesday!!!! ]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111024-153953 Mrs. DaBica Mon, 24 Oct 2011 19:39:53 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111020-094056
I forgot to post this week. Sorry for those of you looking for assignments! I did spend a great deal of time going over the assignments and writing them into our planners!

Wow! The kids are looking forward to the day of tomorrow. Seems like the kids have tons of plans!! Have fun and be safe.

Cells! Cells!Cells! Due on the 27th or 28th. Some 5th graders have asked to bring their cells in on the the 31st. That is fine with me.

Literature projects should start coming in next week. Last day I will accept them is on the 28th!

Thanks for all you do!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111020-094056 Mrs. DaBica Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:40:56 GMT http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111010-053959
We are celebrating the 250th birthday of Addison by making pies. I will gather the ingredients for the pies but need help with bowls, spoons,  and measuring cups. Please send your fifth grader in with these items for Friday, October 14th.

I will bring the pies to the judges early in the morning on the 15th!

We are also making a banner that will sit outside the school. The banner will read " Happy  250 Birthday, Addison"

We will have an end to NECAP celebration on Friday. We will watch a movie, eat pizza, popcorn, make pies and celebrate our huge accomplishments thus far!

The kids are looking forward to this day!

Thanks for all you do!


NECAP NEWS!

We have three more days of NECAP! Phew! Today we finish with math and then two days of WRITING!

Book orders have been placed.

We resume our normal schedule next Monday!]]> http://www.dabica.org/blog/sphpblog049/index.php?entry=entry111010-053959 Mrs. DaBica Mon, 10 Oct 2011 09:39:59 GMT