Parents, I need your help in making sure your child is mastering the skills taught. At, home I’d like for you to monitor your child’s progress by assisting him/her in math, reading and science. There are many web sites you can explore with your child. By working with your child at home , you will be able to identify areas your is challenged in. Together, we will be able to make sure  your child is on task and is successful in taking test.

We are engaged in Measuring Time in our science lessons for the next five weeks. Students are elated in looking at the sun ( when it comes out ) measuring shadows, building and making various kinds of clocks. These hands on lessons are very interesting and involves various mathematical terms. The children are enjoying working with their partners, recording their progress as they follow the teacher’s instructions.Students investigate one way to use water to measure time. They construct a sinking water clock capable of timing an interval of 15 seconds, and they begin identifying the variables involved in determining how rapidly or slowly the clock sinks.

Did you know water clocks have been in use in one form or another for more than three thousand years? They were developed to meet a real need: how to tell time on a cloudy day or at night.

As you can see parents, we are engaged in multiple projects, please feel free to come and visit our class room.

You won’t regret it!

Mrs. McKinley

Parents, the students have been engaged in preparing for the ARS17 skills assessments tests. We’re on our way in accomplishing our goal which is to score 70% or better on each test.

Progress reports went out on December 7,2011. Parents, guardians, if you did not receive your child’s progress report, please contact me immediately. 773-534-6602 Ex 11016. I’ve requested a conference with some of you concerning your child’s progress and grades. I must hear from you ASAP.

Homework is a part of your child’s progress. Doing homework enables the teacher to know where your child is and identifies their strengths and weakness in various subjects.NOT TURNING IN HOMEWORK IS UNACCEPTABLE! Parents, please make sure YOU view and monitor your child’s homework each night and sign it, stating that you have viewed their homework assignments, especially TAKE HOME TESTS. Let’s work together to ensure success for our children.

Your child was given his/her Achieve 3000 password account to use at home or at the library. Please make sure your child is working on the Achieve 3000 and Study Island everyday.

Congratulations to Wallace Torry for being the student of the month for November.

Parents, our Christmas party will be friday December 16, 2011. Each child has a grab bag name, please make sure you have a gift for that child by Thursday, December 15th. The cost of all gifts are $5.00. Ms. McKinley will sponsor the food. Students will bring Chips, Pops, Cookies, Candy.

The winter break assignment will be given to the students on Friday. Parents, get some rest and relaxation too. Have a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year!

Much love,

Ms. McKinley

Attention, Attention, Attention!!! ARS 17 Assessements will begin this week.

The 5th Grade Eaglets

Wow! Can you believe it, I’m the new 5th grade teacher. I’m very excited as we explore the new Math program, Reading and much more. The year 2011-2012 will be very challenging, but my young eaglets will rise up and soar into the Eagles I know they will become.