Mrs. Rawson's Superstar Fourth Graders!

Update!

2012-02-27T15:27:00.001-06:00

Dear Parents,

Benchmark Update

The HISD required benchmark tests have been rescheduled. The new dates are:

Math – March 5th

Reading – March 6th

LDC Update

We will not have regular LDC this week. Mrs. Gee is coming into our class to help us review our writing tests from last week. We will go to LDC the 2 weeks after Spring Break!

Rock Kits

We will begin our Soil Planner this week. We begin the unit studying rocks. I am ordering rock kits for our class. If your child would like their very own rock kit, please send $2 by Thursday of this week. It is filled with rocks from Texas!

Reading – Please ask your child about their book club book.

Writing – We are writing each day….please ask your child about what they are learning.

Math – Measuring! Time, temperature, length, capacity, volume, area, and perimeter! One of the best ways to help your child is to talk about how you use measurement each day. Cooking with your child is very effective.

Science – Rocks

Social Studies –using many resources to make products.

Dates to remember

February 29th – Early dismissal at 12:30

March 5th – Math Benchmark

March 6th – Reading Benchmark

March 9th - +Rally, Field Trip to the Museum

March 27th Writing STAAR Test

March 28th Writing STAAR Test

April 24th - Math STAAR Test

April 25th – Reading STAAR Test

Thank you to Mary Burgher for the ART a La Cart lesson! We all loved the stained glass.

I hope everyone enjoyed the International Festival. Fabia Hill did a GREAT job!

Thank you to Christine Amezquita for counting all of the BOX TOPS!

There will be information coming home soon about the Mark Twain Science Fair. You will be able to work in groups. Please start thinking about ideas.

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Michele Rawson

It'sthe 100th day!

2012-01-31T15:36:00.002-06:00

It’s almost February! We are doing GREAT and learning a lot! Congrats to Emma, Alena, Ileana, and Kenneth! They all did great at the UIL Competition. A huge congratulations to Tran and Eleanor – their poems where selected by Mrs. Patin and used the breakfast for the school board!

• Flashlight Friday – The children who get all of their work and have super conduct will get to bring a flashlight and have reading time from 2:15-2:45! It will be so fun!

• Math – We will have a vocabulary quiz on Friday. The children can use their notes. We are working on Geometry and the kids love learning about the shapes.

• Reading – Please make sure your child reads at least 20 minutes each night. This is so important.

• Writing – we are learning about expository and narrative writing. It is a lot of fun.

• Resources – The children are doing a fabulous job on their research project. The children will be writing a paper and completing a project. They are very excited.

This week:

Friday – Green Smoothie Day! We are heading back to the garden to harvest our spinach and make smoothies. If you have an apple or banana, please bring it. Flashlight Friday!

Saturday – Mark Twain at the Aeros – Good Luck Sam, he is playing for the violin.

On February 14th we will exchange Valentines! Please send your child with a box or a bag to collect their goodies. We will have a fun day!

Mrs. Rawson’s Class

Husain Aylin Ghaida

Isabella Emma Alena

Eleanor Kenneth Nate

Ileana Ali Dean

Ice Ian Ashlyn

Sam Tran Orion

Hiyori Benson Dev

Kevin Yao Cici

Mrs. Gee's Notes from Thursday!

2012-01-19T15:00:00.002-06:00

January 19

1. Description. Because people told people stuff. What is the writing like? How do you know?

The writing was descriptive. Jerry Miller described the dust storm as being “spectacular” and he told that it looked like big black smoke.

The writing was cause and effect. The author told what the dust storm did. The dust storm took the dust from the Dakotas and put it in Kansas.

2. What is the topic and what’s the topic like? How do you know?

The topic is the dangerous sand storm. When people tried to take a deep breath their mouth, nose, lungs were filled with sand.

Why is this topic like it is? How do you know?(feelings)

The dust storm was hard because breathing through a wet cloth isn’t fun. Walking to school and trying to kick the dust out of the way made it hard to get to school. I know because it would I would be tired by the time I got to school.

January 19 Homework: Answer the questions.Fix the answers to “Dreams to Dust” and “Black Sunday”. GRADED

We will read “Baked Out and Broke”, check understanding* and discuss using the questions*. Not done

Cobblestone Notes....hope this helps!

2012-01-19T14:56:00.000-06:00

L. D. C.

BLACK SUNDAY!

1. What is the writing like?

Description, problem/solution, time order, or cause and effect

I think the author used cause and effect. When she told about the dust she explained why it happened. She said the dust blew because of the drought the wind storm.

2. What is the topic? There was a gigantic dust storm in Dodge City, Kansas. It affected the town.

By lunchtime those strong Artic winds form a huge dust storm across the Plains of the United States. It stretched over 3 states. It looked like a wall of black smoke. People couldn’t breathe.

3. Feeling! Why is the topic like it is….How do you know? I felt scared to read about stressed the people were under. It makes me nervous to hear they couldn’t breathe. I hope this never happens in Houston. I can’t imagine having one inch of dust in my house, it must have taken forever to clean up.

Mrs. Rawson's Spelling Bee Participants!

2012-01-10T11:15:00.000-06:00

S-T-R-A-T-O-S-P-H-E-R-E

D-R-O-L-L

Everyone did a fantastic job! We are so excited for everyone!

newsletter 9/10/12

2012-01-10T10:38:00.001-06:00

Dear Parents,

Just a few reminders:

• Wednesday is early dismissal at 12:30 and at 8:00 am, Mrs. Patin will have a STARR information meeting.

• Thursday – STARR information again at 5:00 in the library

• Friday – GO TEXANS Day or wear RED and BINGO NIGHT at 5:30 – 8:30 Please bring cash. It is a lot of fun. You can order a pizza for dinner.

Spring Testing Dates:

March 27-28th STARR Writing (both days)

April 24th STARR 4th Grade Math

April 25th STARR 4th Grade Reading

May 7-17th Grades 1-5 Stanford Test – All children take this test

It is so important that your child reads at least 20 minutes each and every day. It does so much for your child. Please talk to your child about what they are reading. This helps in all subject areas.

If you would like a meeting to discuss your child’s progress, just let me know. I can meet in the morning, at 10:00, or after school.

Words for the week: analyze, approximate, check, define classify, contrast, and communicate

Planner – Resources

Reading – We are reading a science fiction book, The Green Book. The children love it.

Writing – We are writing stories and also practicing the editing process.

Math – More multiplication and division.

Science – Life cycles in the garden. I hope everyone enjoyed the lettuce sent home!

Social Studies – Regions of Texas

Class Donation – Our class is collecting items for a basket to be auctioned off at the Huckleberry Bash, our BIG school fundraiser. We are collecting math and science items. It can be a book, game, puzzle, or a kit.

Thank you,

Michele Rawson

Khan Academy

2012-01-09T14:37:00.002-06:00

Explore Khan Academy

SALAD, SALAD, SALAD!

2012-01-09T13:51:00.000-06:00

We all enjoyed delicious salad today! Please check your child's backpack...there is lettuce, carrots and peas! Enjoy, but please wash your veggies!

GARDEN NEWS!!!!

2012-01-09T13:48:00.000-06:00

Working in the garden!

Harvesting green peas!

Check our our lettuce!

Carrots, peas, and lettuce OH MY!

Happy 2012!!!

2012-01-02T15:10:00.000-06:00

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday! I am very excited to see everyone tomorrow.

This week:

We will start reading Hatchet. Check out some of the activities.
Write about a favorite activity over the break.
Practice multiplication
Start our resources planner!

Get ready...we are going to have a GREAT WEEK!

October News!

2011-10-18T15:13:00.001-05:00

Dear Parents,

What a wonderful time we are having in fourth grade! On Friday, we had a fabulous Art a La Carte lessons taught by the Burghers. Thank you! The children did a nice job at the Decimal Diner! Thank you to Mrs. Amezquita for bringing bowls and spoons!

• Last Friday, we planted peas, onions and spinach. We are very excited to see the fruits of our labor!

• Math – We have started Fractions! It is a lot of fun. The kids see the relation between fractions, division and decimals.

• Language Arts – We are finishing up Sign of the Beaver and beginning our projects. The children are working on editing each day and writing in their writer’s notebook.

• Science – We are well into our Matter Planner! The children are measuring mass and volume and calculating density.

• Social Studies – Mapping skills, charts and timelines!

Pictures – You can order pictures online today at www.interstatestudio.com.

Dates –

• October 27th – The landfill and recycling center trip. We should be back by our lunchtime. If you would like to come along, please let me know.

• October 25th is the Matter Vocabulary Quiz. I will be sending home activities for your child to study. They should have the word list already.

Class Goals – This week we have been working on setting goals and working on taking action to achieve our goals. Please ask your child about their goals.

Grades – Please review any assignment sent home and have your children correct the assignment or make up new problems. I will give extra points.

Conferences – I will begin parent conferences. If you would like to sit down and discuss your child’s progress, just let me know. I can meet at 7:30 am, 10:00, 12:30 or 3:15 most days.

Thank you all for all you do! I am so lucky to work with such amazing kids!!!

READ, READ, READ!!!

It's October!

2011-10-11T12:51:00.002-05:00

October is HERE!!!

We are all enjoying the cooler weather and the RAIN! YEAH! Everyone is working hard and learning a lot! A HUGE thank you to Ali’s mom for a fantastic class party! The decorations were great. A BIG thank you to everyone who came!

Math – Decimals, decimals, decimals. The kids are doing GREAT! We will have our decimals quiz on Friday. Please spend some time studying the review sheets coming home. We are also measuring length and mass. Any opportunity you have to expose your child to measurement is GREAT. For example, when you travel in the car, discuss the miles you drove.

Reading – We all love Sign of the Beaver! We are studying plot, characters development, and cause and effect. The children are doing GREAT. Please make sure your child reads 20 minutes each day and writes about what they read.

Writing – The children are enjoying writing stories about their life. We will publish stories soon!

Matter Planner – The children LOVE all of the science experiments. We have tested molecule movement and proved that gases take up space. This week, we will inquire about volume.

Garden Update - Our seeds have sprouted and we will be planting beans and carrots in the outdoor classroom!

On Friday, we will have a Decimal Diner in Fourth Grade. We will use pretend money to buy a fruit salad. Our class is in charge of bringing bowls, spoons, and napkins for 140 children. If you would like to donate, just let me know. THANK YOU!

Wednesday is early dismissal at 12:30.

Beginning of October!

2011-10-04T21:17:00.000-05:00

What a GREAT class party!!! Thank you all so much! It was GREAT!

Math - We are adding and subtracting decimals this week. On Thursday and Friday we will create number stories to share with the other classes. This will be a fun project. Please continue to work on mutliplicaiton facts. We will have our 7 test on Thursday!

Reading - Thank you to everyone for keeping up with the logs. I will check logs this week. We have just started reading Sign of the Beaver and the children LOVE it! Please ask you child about this GREAT story! Read, Read, Read...one of the BEST things your child can do is read at least 20 minutes each and everyday.

Writing - We are editing our stories this week, final copies FRIDAY!

Matter - Today we tested molecule movement in hot and cold water. It was so neat! We will be doing daily experiments. I am also collecting #6 plastic lids (sometimes you find these on salads) for an upcoming project. We need one for everyone. If you come across any, just let me know.

Thank you all for all you do at Mark Twain!

End of September Update!

2011-10-02T19:34:00.000-05:00

Today the children presented their Author Study projects! They were fantastic. I was so proud of everyone.

Next week:
Math- We will be creating an addition and subtraction number story book. We will also include decimals! The children will continue to investigate decimals - ordering, comparing, and learning about the thousandths place.

Writing - The children will edit and create a final copy of their story.

Reading - We will begin reading Sign of the Beaver. It is a wonderful story of friendship and survival. We will discuss author's purpose and cause and effect this week.

Matter Planner - We will begin the Matter Planner! It will be filled with many fun experiments.

Thank you for all you do to help make learning fun!
See you Monday at the class party!!!
Mrs. Rawson

End of September Update!

2011-09-19T21:56:00.000-05:00

Dear Parents,
I can't believe we are halfway through with September. We are working hard and learning a lot!

Progress Reports - Today your child is bringing home their first progress report. Please review this with your child, sign it and return it to school tomorrow. Remember you can correct any assignement for extra points. I also accept extra credit assignments!

Reading - We are finishing up our author study project this week. The children are enjoying reading books by their author, researching background information about their author, and beginning the project. Please ask your child about this fun activity.

Writing - This week we are exploring the writing process with Ms. Gee in L. D. C.

Math - We are beginning decimals. The childen are using pictures, numbers and words to describe the decimals. Later this week, we will compare and order decimals. Then we will add and subtract! So much fun!

Our planner - Writing...we are learning about the writing process!

Science - We are reviewing science safety rules, water, and getting ready to start the MATTER planner next week!

Social Studies - We are learning map skills. We are also staring our year long topic, TEXAS!

Million Day!

2011-08-29T15:17:00.000-05:00

We had a GREAT time building a million super cube! The children loved it!

Homework Week #2

2011-08-29T14:25:00.000-05:00

This week I am still giving homework each day.

Math - 33 and 40
Language Arts - Read for 20 minutes and write a connection. (nonfiction - you can do connections or list facts that you learned)
Spelling - p. 44

Reading Log Example:

First Day Jitters (whole book) by Julie Danneberg

I was so nervous just thinking about the first day of school. I was so relieved that the main character, Ms. Hartwell was also experiencing jitters. It made me feel like I wasn't the only one who was nervous and afraid. I didn't want to get out of bed, just like Ms. Hartwell. I was curious about the students in my class too. I hoped they would like me just like she did.

What a great CLASS! We are off to a GREAT start!

2011-08-23T15:40:00.000-05:00

Tuesday Update!!!

2011-08-23T11:45:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Mrs. Rawson’s Fourth Grade Class!

This will be a fun and exciting year for everyone! Our journey will be filled with lots of excitement, challenges and fun.

Parent/Teacher Relationship

I believe a strong parent – teacher relationship is essential for every child’s success at school. Throughout the year I will contact you through newsletters, emails, phone calls, and conferences. You can email me at mrawson1@houstonisd.org or call me at 713-295-5230. I am available for conferences daily from 9:15-10:00, before school or after school everyday except Wednesday. We also have a class blog, www.rawsonatmarktwain.blogspot.com. Please check this site for updates.

Attendance and Schedule
It is very important for your child to be at school everyday at 8:00 to ensure success. If your child is tardy please sign in at the office before coming into the classroom. If your child is absent, please send a note (or email) stating the reason for the absence. If you are picking up your child early, please let me know and also sign out in the office when you arrive to pick them up.

Tuesday Folders
This year school notices will be available online through the “Green” folder. Your child will bring home a special folder every Tuesday with graded work. Please go over this with your child. If you have comments or questions, please feel free to ask. I will speak more about grades and homework at open house.

Agenda
In the agenda you will find homework listed. Please make sure to sign your child’s agenda each night. This will provide an opportunity for your child to share what he/she has done each day.

Conduct

In our classroom we create Essential Agreements, which are expectations for each person in order to create a safe and fun learning environment.

We will be risk takers and thinkers; we will be open to new things, ideas, and opinions.

We will show an attitude of respect toward ourselves and others.

We will show an attitude of commitment. (Try new things, stay on task, have materials ready at 8:00)

We will show and attitude of empathy toward others.

We will care for our friends, teachers and our school.

Treat other people the way we want to be treated!

Birthdays
Birthdays are special occasions for children. You may bring a treat to serve after our lunch on your child’s birthday. Invitations may be passed out at school only if either all children or the entire gender (all boys or all girls) in the class are invited to the party. Otherwise, please mail invitations. Although it may seem inconvenient to distribute invitations this way, it can result in hurt feelings for those not invited

Lunch
Your child may bring a lunch or purchase one from the cafeteria. Lunches can be paid for in the office in the morning (or online) so that your child doesn’t risk losing lunch money.

Water Bottles/Snacks
You may send a water bottle with your child to school each day. Please send only water in the bottle. Also, remember to label the bottle with your child’s name. Children may also bring a healthy snack to school. Please make sure the snack is neat and healthy.

Please go online to http://www.marktwainpto.org/ and join the PTO! Your family will recieve a Mark Twain Directory!!

Thank You!!

I realize this is a lot of information, but I know many parents have questions and it helps to get everything in place from the beginning. I am looking forward to a great year working with you and your child! My goal is to provide a nurturing learning environment where your child can be successful.

I am looking forward to a wonderful year at Mark Twain!

Michele Rawson

Save the date:

Open House: Tuesday, September 13th at 7:00

just a sneak peak....I am so excited! See you on Monday!

2011-08-20T10:19:00.002-05:00

Welcome Back!!!!

2011-08-16T22:16:00.000-05:00

This is my family! We have been spending a lot of time at the Willow Pool! I am anxious to hear all about your summer!

March News!

2011-03-29T12:05:00.002-05:00

Dear Parents,

New Deadline: Science Fair Projects are due on May 2nd!

Please use your book and adjust the dates. I would like for everyone to submit their ideas to me as soon as possible. If you need ideas or suggestions, please let me know. I will be checking in with your child frequently to check everyone’s progress. If your child needs help, please ask. Thank you!

Reading: We are reading lots of nonfictions and discussing features of nonfiction texts. Next week, we will read, Number the Stars in L. D. C. It is so important that your child reads at least 25 minutes each night! If you need book ideas, please let me know. Thank you.

Math: We are exploring area and perimeter. We are also reviewing measurement.

Science: We are learning lots of information about rocks and soil. The children are exploring processes that create soil and how humans impact our soil.

Social Studies: We are learning about Texas History!

Friday – This Friday, is our field trip to the Museum of Natural Science. We will learn about adaptations, go to the planetarium, and go on a tour. We will not be able to stay and see the Texas Exhibit, but this would make a GREAT family outing. If you would like to come with us on the trip, please let me know.

Everyone has been enjoying the “Show and Tell” rocks. So I did a little research and we can order a small set of 8 Texas rocks for each child. The kit is $1.50. If you would like to order a set, please send cash to school by Thursday. I will order on Thursday morning. This might be a fun way to start a little rock collection.

See the link to check out the rocks. http://www.beg.utexas.edu/mainweb/publications/rockkits.htm

Just a few dates:

April 1st Museum Field Trip 9-1pm Please bring a lunch to each when we return to school.

April 22nd School Holiday

April 26th Math TAKS test

April 27th Reading TAKS test

May 4th Student Led Conferences

May 5th Field Trip to Galveston

May 9-12th Stanford Testing (all week)

May 23 Field Trip to San Jacinto Monument

May 31st Awards!

June 3rd Last Day of School! (1/2 Day)

Thank you for all you do for your child and Mark Twain!

Michele Rawson

Practice TAKS Tests 2006

2011-03-09T11:47:00.003-06:00

Dear Parents,

Thank you so much for all of the goodies! I LOVE the pictures on the door! The flowers are amazing and all of the treats are so yummy! I am lucky to teach such amazing children. You all are GREAT!

This week your child took practice TAKS Reading and Math tests. I am sending home these tests with your child. Please review the tests together. Even if your child did well, it’s a good idea to see how they solved the problems. If you have ideas, tips and strategies, please share these with your child. It really makes a big difference if the children have multiple methods to figure out the answers. The correct answers are on the back of this note. Please sign the back of this paper after you review both tests with your child. Thank you!

I realize I am sending these 2 tests home right before the break. You can review he tests before the break, during the break, or after the break. I would like all tests back on Thursday, March 24th.

TAKS Math – April 26th

TAKS Reading – April 27th

Extra credit - I will give prizes and extra points to children who do extra credit projects over the break. Here are a few ideas:

• Keep a reading log

• Just READ!!!! Come see me for ideas!

• Extra credit worksheets

• Practice Pearson online (find the topics you missed on the practice TAKS tests!)

• Soil research

• Complete a travel log or journal of events!

• Search on Renzulli for projects and ideas

• Take a visit to a museum, zoo or nature center and report on your observations or what you learned.

• Research ideas for the science fair

• Be creative!

Get ready! When we return from the break, we will dive into soil, work on Rory’s Play, and learn about Texas’ struggle for Independence! We will also get down and dirty in the garden. If you are interested in helping with any of these projects, let me know!

Thank you so much for all you do!

Michele Rawson

GARDEN UPDATE!

2011-03-09T09:27:00.001-06:00

Garden Update!!

After talking with a few garden “experts” we have decided to postpone our planting days to the week after Spring Break. This will allow for a greater selection in the garden stores, more time to plan, and time for the new soil to work into the current soil. This week, we are going to analyze the soil, move compost, and design a plan.

The children are welcome to bring NATIVE plants and seedlings the week after Bring Break. We will also have an area for seeds. Thank you for your help and support. We look forward to getting down and dirty in the garden this spring.

Kind regards,

Fourth Grade Teachers

P. S. If you want to help, let us know!

March Update!

2011-03-07T11:23:00.002-06:00

Dear Parents,

This week we are taking reading and math practice TAKS tests. The results will be sent home soon. We are preparing for the REAL TAKS test coming at the end of April.

TAKS Math April 26th

TAKS Reading April 27th

Field Day

This Friday is our Field Day! Our class is busy learning about first aide and safety. We are very excited.

• Please send your child with one or two reusable water bottles!

• Our shirts will be here soon. Your child may wear a hat and should apply sunscreen.

• There is a sign up for healthy snacks outside the door. We are also open to other suggestions.

• We are also having a “Healthy Snack” bake sale. If you and your child would like to bake something, you are welcome to do so. Please label nutrition facts (gluten/soy/tree nut/dairy). Please send baked goods on Friday morning. Please wrap these in individually. Thanks!

• Lunch is at 11:15, our events start at 11:50. You are welcome to come cheer us on!

Planting in the Garden

We are partnering up with our pre kindergarten reading buddies, Mr. Bonn’s class, and Mrs. Zirczy’s class to plant in the garden. This week we are going to plant native flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds – you can also bring seeds and cuttings! We will begin planting on Thursday afternoon and continue on Friday morning. The children can bring seeds and plants, if they want and I will have some as well. I welcome any ideas and suggestions. Most home and garden stores have native plants marked, so this will help. Please check out the Native Plant Society website, there is lots of information. http://www.npsot.org/Houston

Planting in the garden will do along perfectly with our 4th grade planner: Soil! Thank you! 

A few reminders…

• Please make sure your child reads at least 25 minutes each night. If you are having trouble finding a book, just let me know. Please encourage your child to read over spring break.

• There is lots of extra practice for reading and math on, www.pearsonsuccessnet.org

• Information about the Mark Twain Science Fair should be coming home soon! I have several books that I will be letting the kids look through to get ideas.

Thank you for all you do,

Michele Rawson

Online Writing TAKS tests for Extra Credit!

2011-02-25T11:47:00.000-06:00

http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/online/2003/grade4/writing.htm

http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/online/2004/grade4/writing.htm

http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/online/2006/grade4/write/4writing.htm

Take the test, plan the story, write the story! Get extra credit!

2011-02-15T14:24:00.000-06:00

Monday 2/21   Go for the Gold Day!

Student s wear T-shirt from the country you are from or like (it can be your favorite country’s colors, flag, or symbols)
Yellow snacks = gold snacks
We will focus on the GOLD (4 stories!)

Tuesday   2/22     Silly Day!
Students will wear silly socks or mismatched socks. We will work on making sure our sentences don’t sound silly! Editing and Revising!!!
Bring a fun snack!

Wednesday   2/23   Coffeehouse Day!
We will have an “Open Mic” to share stories. Please send a flashlight!

Thursday   2/24 Sunglasses Day!!!
Students will bring a piece of fruit to make a fruit salad to freeze frame. We will use “special editing glasses” to make sure our stories shine like the sun!

Friday    2/25 P. J. Day!

Student will bring sleeping bags, pillows, favorite bedtime stories, bedtime snacks. Students will read and analyze stories!

Monday

2/28 We have BIG goals…College T-shirt Day!

The TAKS WRITING TEST IS TUESDAY, March 1st!

Worms! Worms! Worms!

2011-02-09T13:10:00.000-06:00

Dear Parents,

What a wonderful week! The kids are working very hard, and I am so proud of them.

Math – Fractions! We are looking at fractional parts as well as sets of fractions. We are problem solving each day.

Reading – Book Club Projects!

Writing – We are practicing editing for the TAKS test. Please review the pages coming home each night as we practice in class. We are also analyzing “4” stories. This is a lot of fun!

L. D. C. – We are writing a story about a time we learned something. Please ask your child what they are writing about!

Systems Planner – we are finishing up our projects and we will present soon. We are also busy working on field day. Our committee is the Health and Safety Committee.

A few important things…

• Today I am sending home a practice editing test from last week, please review it with your child, sign the test and return it by Friday. If you have any questions, let me know.

• Please make sure your child reads at least 20 minutes each day. You can read to or with your child to make it fun. Please see me if you need book ideas.

• If your child corrects any paper or project, I will add points. I will also give extra credit if you child goes to Pearsonsuccessnet.com.

• Today we got Red Wiggler Worms in the mail. We ordered them from Uncle Jim’s Worm Farm in Pennsylvania. Please ask your child about the worms!!!!!

• Please make sure your child does their homework each night.

• I need a few volunteers to bring in items for a Valentine Party on Monday. We need 24 undecorated cookies, icing in tubes, conversation hearts (for a fraction activity), and fruit. I will put a sign up outside the door, you can email me and I’ll sign you up.

• Don’t forget your Valentine Cards on Monday. You can attach candy or a treat, if you would like.

Thank you for all you do!

Michele Rawson

2011-01-28T14:46:00.001-06:00

WORM DAY #!1

2011-01-28T14:39:00.000-06:00

We had lots of fun setting up our worm box! We will get more worms next week!

Field Trip Dates

2011-01-27T08:08:00.000-06:00

April 1st = Science Museum Field Trip (2 parents/class)
May 5th = Galveston Trip (3 parents/class)
May 23rd = Monument Field Trip! (2 parents/class)

Guiding Questions

2011-01-26T14:36:00.000-06:00

It = YOUR SYSTEM

Why is it a system?
What are the parts of your system?
How does your system work?
How is your system connected to other systems?
How is your system changing?
Interesting FACTS!

Artist Boat Workshop Today

2011-01-18T15:39:00.000-06:00

We had a great workshop today from the staff at the ARTIST BOAT from Galveston, Texas. We learned all about Galveston Bay and the precious resources found in the estuary.

No spelling this week!
REad, Read, READ!!!!

Happy 2010

2011-01-04T12:38:00.002-06:00

Happy 2011!!!
Welcome Back! First of all, I want to thank each one of you for the many holiday gifts! The class gift was extremely generous and I used the money to buy some new clothes for school. Thank you all for making me feel so special.
I hope everyone enjoyed time off with family and friends. I know I had a great time. As we start off the new year, I we are going to review policies and procedures. A few reminders:
 All graded work can be corrected for additional points.
 Any and all projects will be considered for extra points.
 All children should read for at least 25 minutes per night (books, magazines, scripts, newspapers, they all count!)

Math - We are going to continue ways to multiply 2 digit numbers and long division.
Reading – Children will be assigned reading groups this week. Please ask your child what book they are reading in class.
Writing – We will explore flashbacks in our writing, start a story about gifts, and practice editing techniques.
Planner – We will begin the systems planner. We will define systems, explore several systems, and start researching systems in class.

Upcoming Dates:
January 7th Early dismissal – If you would like a conference, please let me know. I will have a sign up outside my door. I can also meet next week.

The children have a special project due by Friday. They are to create their favorite place. They can draw, make a collage, bring a picture, create an abstract piece, the ideas are endless. These are due by Friday. We will use this for a writing project. Thank you!

If you have any questions or comments, please let me know.
Michele Rawson

Happy Holiday!

2010-12-17T14:15:00.001-06:00

Thank you all so much for the wonderful birthday wishes!
The cards, posters, cakes, lunch, birthday gram were over the top! I had a GREAT day. Thank you!

I am so lucky to teach such wonderful, amazing kids. They amaze me on a daily basis and I learn so many things from them. I hope everyone has a restful wonderful break. I know you will all have a great time with family and friends.

Newsflash: Mrs. Rawson’s Class won the 4th grade Problem Solving Contest! YEAH!!! There will be a rematch, so study, study, study!!!

Holiday Extra Credit
• Pearsonsuccessnet.com - Log in and watch some of the math videos, write a quick review about what you did and which videos you watches.
• Renzullilearning.com – search math games or check your favorites. I can see what you did!
• Math problem solving or any math problems
• Read and create a book report
• WRITE A STORY!!!
• I am open to any extra credit project!!

ENJOY YOUR BREAK!

Love,
Mrs. Rawson

Math GAme

2010-12-17T04:39:00.001-06:00

2010-12-03T12:07:00.000-06:00

opposite

born

sense

cattle

million

wouldn't

section

spent

ring

teeth

experiment

particular

according

exercise

disguise,

percent,

recommend,

pleasure,

official,

stomach,

exercise,

instruction,

restaurant,

success, piano,

decide,

future,

shoulder,

distance,

familiar,

wrinkle,

disease,

journey,

doubt,

breathe,

equal,

discourage,

tournament,

achieve,

sweater,

attitude,

cereal,

similar,

reduce,

pleasant,

memorable,

jealous,

police,

repetition,

average,

nervous,

electric,

guitar,

wreathe,

celebration,

museum,

dangerous,

pronounce,

vacant,

initial,

easiest,

damage,

concern,

loathe

auxiliary,

deprivation,

equation,

hideous,

nausea,

reservoir,

studious,

reputable,

antidote,

chronic,

benediction,

credential,

altercation,

grotesque,

poignant,

authentic,

convenience,

sabotage,

camouflage,

tedious,

expedient,

hallucination,

flexibility,

mesmerize,

stringent,

lustrous,

feasibility,

mediator,

tutorial,

perjury

Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-23T15:24:00.002-06:00

Between witches and ghosts and Santa Claus,

Sits Thanksgiving, a time to pause.or

We have so much to be thankful for,

Family and friends and so much more.

Our wonderful country, our beautiful state,

So many things we think are great.

And this year there is still one thing more –

A special 4th grade class to be thankful for!

Dear Boys and Girls,

Thank you so much for all your hard work. I hope you relax and enjoy spending time with family and friends over the break. I know you all deserve some time off!

Don’t forget the extra credit!

• Math Packet

• Read 20 minutes each day!

• www.pearsonsuccessnet.com –math and reading

• www.renzulliliearning.com

• Write a fun story.

When we return from the break, we will present our native group projects. Keep studying your math facts, we will start weekly fast fact quizzes!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Love,

Mrs. Rawson

A Cool Photo from the OPERA!

2010-11-10T10:56:00.002-06:00

Matthew's favorite color picture is the one in the top right cornor!

Weekly Update!

2010-11-05T16:01:00.001-05:00

What a wonderful week…an opera talk, an intruder drill, and Art a la Cart!

Math – Today was our Unit 3 Everyday Math Test. I will send this home in the Tuesday folder. Please go over this test with your child, correct it and send it back to school. Our next unit is all about decimals – kids love the connection to money!

Reading/Writing – We finished Sign of the Beaver. Next week, we will work on cause and effect and summarizing. We will also learn more writing tips including good beginnings and stretching a moment. On Tuesday, all the children took a practice TAKS writing test. I will send these results home in the Tuesday folder along with a scoring guide. Please ask your child about the rubric, if you would like to meet with me, please let me know.

Science/Social Studies – We are well under way with your research process. The children are learning how to cite sources and take notes. We are also reading in our social studies book about regions and native people in Texas.

A few reminders…

• Tuesday, November 9th is our field trip to the OPERA. Please have your child dress up and bring a lunch. We will eat at school when we return from the field trip. It will be lots of fun!

• Please make sure your child does their homework each night. I encourage you to help your child, and go over their homework with them. Reading at least 20 minutes is extremely important.

• Log minutes for March of Dimes…this is due on November 30th! ALL CHILDREN SHOULD READ PARTICIPATE.

• Book orders are due on Thursday…the order information is online

Thank you for all you do to help your child. I am having a GREAT year and the kids are so much fun!

Book Orders - Our Class Code is H29NL....

2010-11-01T22:11:00.000-05:00

The November book order is online...

Go to www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
Enter our class code H29NL
Order books!

Thank you!

New UPdate! November 1st

2010-11-01T21:43:00.000-05:00

Mrs. Rawson’s Update…

The Vocabulary Parade was GREAT FUN! Lots of fun was had by everyone. I think we all learned new words. Thank you to the children for making the parade a success.

Sadly we said good bye to Jerry on Thursday. We know we will receive email updates from him soon. Today, Mateo Maupin joined our class. We are so excited and the children are welcoming him with open arms.

Math – This week in math we are relating multiplication/division facts. We are also solving algebra problems. On Friday, we will take the Unit 3 Everyday Math Test. I will send home a review sheet on Wednesday. Please continue to work on facts with your child a little each night. We have started to multiple 2 digit numbers by one digit numbers. It will make it much easier if your child can recall their math facts quickly.

Reading/Writing – On Tuesday (today!) fourth graders are taking a practice TAKS Writing Test. The children will edit a few paragraphs, then they will be given a story prompt. The children will then come up with an idea, brainstorm, create a rough draft, revise and edit the story, and then make a final copy. I know this seems like a lot, but practicing this process will help the children. If you have any questions, please let me know. I will be sending home scores very soon.

L. D. C. – We all love Sign of the Beaver. The children are doing a nice job. This is our last week.

Research – We are using a new model Independent Investigation Model (IIM http://www.iimresearch.com/) Please ask your child about what Native People they are researching.

Science – Today, Ethan’s chrysalis emerged! We released the beautiful butterfly in Huckleberry Park! Then we saw tiny butterfly eggs as well as caterpillars! We are also reading about animal adaptations.

A Few Reminders…

Please make sure your child reads AT LEAST 20 minutes each night.

Please spend a few minutes reviewing math facts each night.

I give extra credit in all subjects.

• Math – make up story problems

• Reading – read a book and do a project

• Science – create a science experiment

• Social studies – read a book about a person, place or historical event and report on what you learned.

• Writing – write a story, letter or article.

• BE CREATIVE!!!

Thank you for all you do!

Michele Rawson

vocabulary parade...

2010-10-29T14:58:00.000-05:00

We had a blast! Look for more pics soon!

Great Resource!

2010-10-27T14:36:00.001-05:00

http://kids.yahoo.com/reference

Vocabulary Parade...next Friday, October 29th at 8:30!!

2010-10-22T11:55:00.000-05:00

Today we read, Miss Alaineus by Debra Fraiser. The kids were so excited and wanted to have their oun parade! We are thinking next Friday, at 8:30!
Here are some ideas and examples...and a few more!

Please remember:

costumes can be simple, easy and fun!!!
parents are invited.
I can help your child with the costume or ideas.

Thank you for making learning fun!

Weekly Update...

2010-10-18T22:25:00.002-05:00

I can’t believe Spooky Spaghetti is almost here. The children are working hard and learning a lot.

This Friday, we have early dismissal for parent conferences. I have many slots for Friday still open. If you can’t meet on Friday, I can meet you another day.

Math – Multiplication! Multiplication! Multiplication! This week we will start to explore multiplying 2 digits numbers by one digit numbers. We are problem solving every day. The children are doing a great job. Please make sure your child knows their multiplication facts by “heart.” There are many games on Renzullilearning.com that make learning the facts fun! I assigned an online test (www.pearsonsuccess.net) to the children for homework. If you do not have internet access, the children can come to my class at 7:30 in the morning to work on the test.

Reading-We are using the Social Studies book to review reading skills. This week we are learning about cause and effect, sequence, and main idea and details. We are learning about resources in Texas (our new planner!). Please make sure your child reads at least 20 minutes each night!

Writing – Last week, we wrote stories about someone we admire! This was a fun process. Look for these out in the hallway later this week. This week, we will learn a few new writing tricks and the fourth grade writing motto!

Social Studies – We are beginning our new planner, How we Share Resources. This week, we will being a research project. The children will be assigned a native group to explore. We will use the IIM method.

Science – Come see our garden! We planted seeds with Ms. Stryker’s class. We have lots of seedlings. We are also studying animal adaptations.

Hope to see you on Saturday at Spooky Spaghetti!

Parent Confereces....

2010-10-15T10:32:00.000-05:00

Next Friday is Early Dismissal for Parent Conferences. If you would like a meeting, just let me know. I have a sign up sheet in the hallway. I am also doing before and after school meetings.
You can email me about a time as well.
Thanks!
Michele Rawson

Oobleck

2010-10-13T13:42:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, under the excellent direction of Rory and his Mom, the class performed a play adapted from the Dr. Suess book, Bartholmew and the Oobleck. Rory also wrote the script.

Everyone had a part either on the stage or behind the scenes and the class worked together beautifully to put on a spectacular performance!

Thanks to Mrs. L for co-directing and the Moms who brought refreshments after the show as well!

2010-10-08T12:24:00.000-05:00

Spelling Ideas...

2010-09-27T22:01:00.002-05:00

Click here to find ways to study your spelling words!

Weekly Update!

2010-09-27T21:39:00.002-05:00

Please ask your child about visiting the garden today! We had a great time...we will have to take pictures tomorrow, my battery died on my camera! Thank you to all the student who did a great job following directions.

This week....
On Thursday we are going on our first field trip. We are going to a recycling center/landfill on the east side of town. I am so sorry about the late notice. Your child will bring home a permission slip in their Tuesday folder. We are leaving Twain around 11:00 and returning around 2:30. We will eat a snack at 10:30 and another one when we return to school -there isn't a place to eat on the trip. This trip will cost $4.00.

Math - We are studying place value. Our class is building a model of a million! This is lots of fun. Please challenge your child to spend a few minutes each night working on multiplication facts! We are going to challenge other classes to fact races this week.

Reading - As a class, we will read, The Kid's Guide to Global Warming. We will learn the parts of nonfiction books! Please make sure your child is reading at least 20 minutes each night. On Wednesday, I am going to give each child a chart to keep track of the different types of books they are reading.

Writing - We have starting writing a piece about our favorite day. The children are learning about stretching a moment. (using lots of description in their writing!). We are also working on our editing skills each day. This is fun for the children.

Matter - This week we are learning about the trash vortex, banning plastic bottles and what happens to our trash.

Book orders are due Friday...you can click here and our class code is h29nl to order online! There are many good deals in the order, if you needs suggestions, please just let me know!
Thank you!

Tumblebooks...

2010-09-27T21:17:00.001-05:00

Tumblebooks is a great place to find books! The computer reads the books outloud..too fun! The login is Marktwain and the password is books.

Time for Kids

2010-09-21T12:59:00.002-05:00

Please send $5.50 for Time for Kids Magazine! Thank you!

Weekly Update!!!

2010-09-21T12:48:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful week! WE are getting organized with centers. The children are learning their stations and are learning so much from each other. The children are getting into the swing of L. D. C. YEAH!

Math: place value, multiplication facts, comparing and ordering numbers.

Reading: L. D. C.: Call it Courage!

Writing: Elaboration, using words to create pictures

Science: Matter – Density!

Social Studies: Mapping Skills: trash vortex

I will be sending home progress reports on Wednesday, if you would like to meet with me, just let me know. We can have a conference before school, after school, or at 10:00.

We can order books online!!
Web address: scholastic.com/bookclubs

Class Activation Code: H29NL

Now it’s easier than ever to find the perfect books for your child—shop our NEW online Book Clubs Web site. Choose from a much-wider selection of books than in the printed flyer. Plus, you can send your orders directly to me online and use your credit card to pay.

Best of all, we earn a FREE book for the classroom library every time a parent places an order online.

It’s so simple! Here’s how it works:

• SIGN UP at www.scholastic.com/bookclubs. On the parent page, register by clicking click the “Don’t have a user name or password?” link. When prompted, enter the one-time Class Activation Code shown above. This unique code ensures that your order is sent to me.

• SELECT the books you’d like to order—choose from thousands of titles—many more than in our monthly flyers.

• SEND your order to me online by the due date and your child’s books will be delivered directly to my classroom.

Ordering online is fast, easy, and secure.

Of course, you can still order using the form from the printed flyer. But why not see for yourself how convenient it is to order online?

Thank you,

Michele Rawson

Call it Courage -Help!

2010-09-15T09:46:00.000-05:00

Call is Courage is a challenging book...I have included a few study guide links!
Study Guide another Guide

Math Review - Quiz Thursday!!!

2010-09-07T14:22:00.002-05:00

Angles ( Right, Obtuse, acute)
Ray
Line segment
line
Perpendicular lines
Parallel lines
Quadrilaterial
Polygon (Concave, convex)
Rhombus
Square
Parallelogram
Trapezoid

Please study these definations! You can use this site.

Weekly Update!!!!

2010-09-07T12:59:00.001-05:00

Dear Parents,
I hope everyone had a WONDERFUL holiday weekend! I know I enjoyed time with family and friends.
Matter – We are exploring properties of matter and we will explore mass, volume and density.

Math – This Thursday we will have a short geometry quiz. I am sending home a study guide today. Please review this with your child. Also, each Friday we will have a short multiplication quiz. This week, we will work on 0-5 facts.

Reading – We are working on picking just right books. We will begin L. D. C. next week. We will read one of my favorite books, Call it Courage. I can’t wait!!!

Writing – We are filling up our Writer’s Notebook with ideas, notes, and stories. We want to make sure kids LOVE, LOVE to write.

Oobleck!

2010-09-03T12:45:00.003-05:00

Please ask your child about Oobleck! We explored the properties of solid and liquids!

Matter Experiments: Do Gases Take Up Space?

2010-09-03T12:42:00.002-05:00

Please ask your child about the experiment, Do Gases Take Up Space. It is a lot of fun and easy to redo at home!

We also conducted an experiment to see the molecules of hot and cold water. It was so much fun! The kids could see the hot water moving food coloring around the bowl.

Newsletter #1

2010-08-30T22:04:00.002-05:00

Dear Parents,
What a great first week we had! The children are getting into the swing of things and doing a wonderful job. We have been working on procedures, getting to know each other and taking a few assessments. HISD is requiring all students to take beginning of the year math and reading assessments. (We took the math assessment Monday.) I will give the reading test on Wednesday. I will be sharing these results with you soon.

Spelling – On Monday, your child brought home a list of spelling words. Please make sure your child knows the spelling pattern. I will be teaching your child several strategies to learn spelling words. In a few weeks they can choose their homework!

Reading – Each night I am asking that your child reads AT LEAST 20 minutes. I am starting to meet with each child to make sure they are picking books that match their reading level. Reading logs will begin later this week.

Writing – Fourth grade is filled with lots and lots of writing! The children are doing a fantastic job filling their Writers’ Notebook with lots of ideas for stories.

Math - Lines, Angles, and shapes…oh my! We are diving right into Geometry. We are also reviewing multiplication facts. This Friday, we will have our first multiplication quiz (0-4 facts). Please spend a few minutes working on these facts each night.

Our first planner is How the World Works. We study the properties of Matter. The children will explore the properties of matter. Last week we conducted a quick experiment to prove that gases take up space. This week we will explore molecules movement and test properties of solids and liquids.

Our school has access to several wonderful online resources. We will use these in class, but you are more than welcome to explore these at home.

Renzulli Learning – www.renzullilearning.com (I will send home username and passwords!)

Math and Reading Textbook Website - www.pearsonsuccess.com ( I will send home user name and passwords)

Our Classroom Blog- www.rawsonatmarktwain.blogspot.com
Please check for updates, pictures, and news!!!

Looking forward to seeing everyone at Open House on September 14th at 7:00!!!

From Mr. Baker!

2010-08-26T15:41:00.001-05:00

In order to ensure a safe and orderly dismissal and so that we can account for every child, we respectfully ask all children in grades 1 through 5 be picked up from the cafeteria only. Kindergarten parents may pick up at the classroom at 2:45. If you arrive at school before 2:45, you must get a visitors’ badge from the front office and wait for your children in the cafeteria, front rotunda, or outside unless you are going to Kindergarten at 2:45.
This will ensure that teachers know the whereabouts of all children at all times. Thank you for helping us keep your children safe.

2010-08-20T22:00:00.004-05:00

Dear Boys and Girls,

I can't wait to meet you on Monday. I hope you had a great summer and I know we are going to learn many new and exciting things this year. Please encourage your parents to "follow" our blog. We will post news, information and pictures!

See you soon!

Love,

Mrs. Rawson

Welcome to Fourth Grade!!!

2010-08-09T20:00:00.001-05:00

This is going to be a wonderful year! I can't wait to meet you!

Here is one of my favorite links.

Artist Boat...

2010-05-19T11:27:00.002-05:00

We learned so much about Galveston Bay today! Please ask your child about estuaries, Galveston Bay, wetlands, salinity, brackish water, and Trinity River. They also learned about water color painting. It was FANTASTIC!

On Friday, please have your child wear their field day t-shirt or a white shirt, closed toe shoes and a hat. They need a lunch, extra water, and a towel. Please have them apply sunscreen before they come to school.

We will start the day at Galveston STate Park and then break into small groups. This is a great trip. Thanks for your support!
Mrs. Rawson

Click here to learn more about the ARTIST BOAT trip!

May...

2010-05-11T20:21:00.001-05:00

Dear Parents,
Wow! May is already upon us…we have so many fun events and activities planned.

Field Day – Our class will be working shifts in the morning to help with safety. We will carry our first aid kits and help to make sure kids are hydrated during their activities.

Parade 8:15
k-2 Events 8:30-11:00
Lunch 11:00-11:45
3-5 Events 11:45-2:15
Awards 2:20

Please remember to bring a refillable water bottle and wear sunscreen. We hope you can join us!!!!

Field Trips
This Friday, May 14th Our class will travel to Pershing Middle School to see a play, Cosmic Caper. This is a FREE trip, but your child does need to bring a lunch.

Next Tuesday (5/18), we are taking a field trip to the San Jacinto Monument and Battleship. The cost is $11.75. It will be a wonderful opportunity for learning and fun. If you would like to come, please let me know!

Next Wednesday (5/20) and Friday (5/21), we will participate in the Artist Boat Workshop and Field Trip. On Wednesday, we will have a 2 hour art and nature workshop at Mark Twain. Then on Friday we will travel to Galveston Island State Park. It will be a wonderful opportunity to learn and have fun. The workshop and the trip will cost $25.

May Dates
May 12th Field Day 11;45 – 2:15
May 13th Library Program 9:30
May 14th VIPS Luncheon and Play at Pershing
May 15th Father/ Daughter Dance
May 18th San Jacinto Monument and Battleship trip
May 19th Artist Boat Workshop
May 21st Galveston State Park Trip
May 24th Fourth Grade Awards 1:45

Wow...many dates!

2010-05-05T21:54:00.002-05:00

Just a few dates for your calendar!

Wednesday, May 12th field day
Tuesday, May 18th San Jacinto Monument and Battleship Field Trip
Wednesday May 19th Artist workshop (from the Galveston Artist Boat)
Friday, May 21st Galveston Island State Park Field Trip

Monday, May 24th Fourth Grade Awards

Wow...I can't believe this year is winding down!

Fun Friday!

2010-04-16T14:15:00.006-05:00

We are beginning Fun Friday as a reward for students who make good choices.

Gunner's Pets!

2010-04-15T15:23:00.001-05:00

April UPdate!

2010-04-13T14:57:00.000-05:00

April Update
Wow! I can’t believe it’s already April. We have so many exciting activities planned for the next few weeks!
Field Day
The field day plans are well underway. The children will have a meeting with Coach Jody this week to discuss the activities for field day. Our class is the Safety Committee. We will be in charge of first aid, water, and general health and safety. We are having several speakers come to share information with us. We welcome any ideas or suggestions.
Mrs. Morrisonand Mrs. Franey are in the process of coordinating t-shirt orders for the whole fourth grade. THANK YOU! Each class with have a different color, our color is pink. The shirts with have the field day motto on the front: We Build Community and our names on the back. They will be super cute!

Lemonade Stand
Mark Twain Elementary is hosting a lemonade stand at Whole Foods on Saturday, April 17th from 10 – 2. All the proceeds will go to Huckleberry Park, our outdoor classroom. If you would like to volunteer for a time, please send me a note or an email! Thank you to Caleb and Chris who have already signed up to help!

Please talk to your child about their L. D. C. work. I think everyone is enjoying the book, Number the Stars. It is a great read! If your child reads their L. D. C. book, this time does count for the 20 minutes of reading each night.

Math
We are working on 3 dimensional shapes, measurement, and volume. It is a fun review right before the TAKS test. We are also spending a little time each day reviewing skills from the beginning of the year. Thank you for all of your help and support.

We our currently studying types of systems. The children are studying Texas History and investigating government systems. We are also researching different types of systems. We look forward to making field day a success!

Important Dates
April 17th Lemonade Stand at Whole Foods from 10-2
April 27th TAKS Math
April 28th TAKS Reading

Field DAY 2010!!!

2010-03-11T13:41:00.000-06:00

Check it out here!

Free Movies at Blockbuster

2010-03-04T12:07:00.002-06:00

Blockbuster will offer free movies for kids! Click here!

Science at Michael's Craft Store

2010-02-26T15:42:00.000-06:00

Check this out!

Caleb's Coloring Party!

2010-02-26T15:40:00.001-06:00

This Sunday, Caleb Herrera will host a small gathering to finish coloring our classroom creation.
If you are not busy please stop by to help him finish!

Where: 3627 Grennoch
Time: 2:30 on Sunday

Hope to see you there!

A huge thank you to the Herrera Family for teaching and guiding us through this fun process!!!

Lots of FUN next week!

2010-02-19T16:33:00.001-06:00

Next week we have many fun activities planned to get ready for the TAKS Writing Test on March 3rd. We are really looking forward to having FUN and learning a lot.
Thank you!

Monday – Go for the Gold Day - Wear a shirt from your favorite country (or the colors of the country!) Bring a yellow (GOLD) snack!
Tuesday – Silly Sock Day - We are going to make sure our sentence don’t sound silly…wear mismatched socks.
Wednesday – Well Balanced Day -Bring a well balanced lunch, we will picnic outside. We will make sure our stories are filled with goodness and they are balanced!
Thursday – Revision Day - Wear sunglasses…we will edit with special glasses. Bring a piece of fruit for fruit salad.
Friday – P. J. Celebration - Wear your Pajamas to school. Bring a pillow, sleeping bag, and your favorite story.

A big THANK YOU to Jill Herrera for help with the classroom creation, the kids loved it!

Please ask your child about the Barbara Jordan and the Black History Program

2-8-10

2010-02-09T14:30:00.001-06:00

Dear Parents,
What a wonderful week! The children are working very hard creating stories. They are learning all about the writing process (Brainstorming, creating a rough draft, revising, editing and writing a final copy). We are preparing for the upcoming Writing TAKS test on March 3rd 2010. The child will complete an editing section and then writing a story answering a writing prompt. We practiced this last Tuesday. On Tuesday, everyone will bring home their writing grade. Please go let your child read their story to you and review the editing section. Please talk to your child about the parts you like and you may also give your child a few writing suggestions.
In math, we are learning about fractions, decimals, and percents. The children are working very hard. I am very proud of how well everyone works in partners. Thank you!!!
Thank you to Jill Herrera. We loved our art lesson last week. The children are still talking about realistic and abstract art. The children can’t wait to paint their pieces for our Class Creation.
This week, we are presenting our soil projects to the class. Later this week we will plant seeds in different types of soil. This experiment is always fun!
On Friday, we will have a Valentine Party! The children will exchange Valentines and we will decorate cookies (a BIG thank you to all who are bringing in supplies!!!) from 2:15-3:00. You are more than welcome to come share this special time with your child.
We will also use some candy earlier in the day to discuss fractions and probability!!!

A few reminders:
Please make sure your child reads AT LEAST 20 minutes each night!!! This makes a HUGE difference!
Keep in mind the Invention Deadline is coming soon…if you need help, check out RENZULLI or come see me in the morning.
Next week: L. D. C. – It’s a special class…we will divide into groups for special writing projects!!!

THank you for all you do!!! I loved all of the flowers today!!! You are so thoughtful!!!

International Festival...Saturday, January 30th 1-4pm

2010-01-27T13:06:00.001-06:00

Please come to the Internatioal Festival on Saturday.
We are collecting money for the American Red Cross.
See you on Saturday!

Haiti

2010-01-20T20:13:00.003-06:00

I have found some great websites about Haiti and Earthquakes for the children. I have sent them several websites through Renzuillilearning.com.
Please look for information about the Mark Twain Help for Haiti coming soon.
Wishing for PEACE for the people of Haiti!
Mrs. Rawson

Stanford Testing...

2010-01-20T19:37:00.003-06:00

Today was the first day of Stanford testing. The kids took the Math Problem Solving section. Tomorrow we will take the Math Procedures and the Listening section. YEAH!!!

The book order will be due next Tuesday, January 26th. You can click here to order online.
Login: MrsRawsonClass
Password: Marktwain

Tutorials are currently, Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 7:15 in my room. If your child needs help with a skill or an assignment, they are welcome to attend.

Thank you!!!

BINGO NIGHT

2010-01-13T07:44:00.001-06:00

Don't forget Friday is BINGO NIGHT!!!! HOpe to see you!!1

Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-06T09:47:00.002-06:00

Welcome Back! I hope everyone had a wonderful vacation with family and friends. I know I did. I want to thank you all for being such a wonderful class and for the generous gift card. I will use it to buy new plates for my kitchen. I feel so lucky each day to work with such kind and thoughtful children.

This Friday, we will have a field trip to the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Please sign the permission slip on the back of this paper. We will leave the school at 9:00 and we will return about 12:45. We will eat lunch at school when we return. If you would like to join us, please let me know.

Important Dates…
January 8th – Field Trip 9:00 -12:45

The Stanford Test Schedule:
1/20 – Listening and Spelling
1/21 – Math (problem solving and procedures)
1/22 - Word Study and Reading Comprehension
1/25 – Reading Vocabulary and Language
1/26 – Science and Social Studies

March 3, 2010 – Writing TAKS
April 27, 2010 – Math TAKS
April 28, 2010 – Reading TAKS

Thank you for all you do to make Mark Twain GREAT!

Coins for your Report Card!

2010-01-04T20:07:00.001-06:00

Follow this link to earn FREE coins for earning at least 3 As on your next report card.

You can begin your own coin collection! Enjoy!

Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-04T15:22:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year!
I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful break. I know I did. This year will be filled with fun and lots of learning!

We will have a GREAT week! We will go to the SCIENCE MUSEUM this Friday. Permission slips will go home on Tuesday. It's FREE....Thank you to HISD!

I can't wait to hear about all of your adventures...
Love,
Mrs. Rawson

Plans for January
LDC - The Green Book (2 weeks)
Math - Division, Fractions, and problem solving
Writing - beginnings and endings
Science - Soil Planner (Please bring a soil sample in a jar or plastic bag ASAP.)
Social Studies - Explorers come to Texas

January 20th - Begin Stanford Testing

We are busy, busy, busy!

2009-11-06T21:04:00.001-06:00

Next week as required by HISD the children will take the practice TAKS test. Please see the schedule below.
Monday - Math
Tuesday - Reading
Wednesday - Writing

I will send these results home soon. Please make sure your child gets plenty of sleep.

Good News...on Thursday, Dr. Levitt will present science experiments about chemical and physical changes. We will also have a Pizza Party because all of you joined the PTO! YEAH! Thanks!

October 29th....

2009-10-29T12:06:00.000-05:00

Dear Parents,
I can’t believe it is already Halloween! What a wonderful year we are having. The children are learning a lot and having a great time.
On Wednesday, November 4th we have report card day and early dismissal for parent conferences. I would be happy to schedule a conference with you on that day or another time. I can come early, meet you at 9:15, or after school. Please send me an email or a note and we can schedule a conference.

If you can’t come to the student let conferences on November 11th please let me know and we can schedule another time for that as well. The children really like showing off all the work they have done!

In math we are learning about decimals. We are relating decimals and fractions. We are also practicing 2 digit multiplication. We are having fun creating story problems to go along with the problems.

Reading and Language Arts – We are reading, The Kid’s Guide to Global Warming as a part of the Cool Globe Project. The children are learning all about Global Warming, creating a globe and writing letters to the mayor!!! Please remember how important it is to READ for at least 20 minutes each night.

Planner- We are now in the middle of our Resources planner. The children are learning all about the native people in Texas and how they use resources. Next week we will begin a research project to learn about native people all over the world and how they use and share resources.

Important Dates…

November 4th – Early dismissal day, field trip to Pershing
November 5th – Book order due!
November 11th- Student Led Conferences
November 16th – 20th Benchmark Testing

Cool Globes....

2009-10-27T12:00:00.003-05:00

This week the children are working on a Cool Globe project. The children are reading a book, The Down to Earth Guide to Global Warming and creating a journal. We are also creating our very own paper mac he globe, just like the ones at Discovery Green (only smaller.) We will keep you posted...look for photos soon!

We are continuing our research on the Native People in Texas. At the beginning of next week we will start our presentations.

In math we are learning about decimals and fractions. This is lots of fun! The kids love relating decimals to money!!!

Please ask your child about Renzulli! It's a great resources for learning!

Next Week...

2009-09-24T22:04:00.002-05:00

Next week will be lots of fun....

Our vocab quiz will move to Wednesday!
Thursday, October 1st is our field trip to the recycling center, school picture day, and our CLASS PARTY!

Flashcard Maker...

2009-09-23T20:24:00.000-05:00

Click on the link to the FLASHCARD maker and make flashcards for your matter words or your facts....

Here is a GREAT website for reviewing MATTER concepts.

Enjoy!

Please make sure your child is reading for at least 20 minutes each night. You can read to or with your child(ren). What a GREAT family activity!

Oobleck...solid or liquid...

2009-09-23T11:23:00.001-05:00

2009-09-23T11:04:00.000-05:00

On Fridays we read with Mrs. Stryker's First Graders!

Quick Update...

2009-09-22T20:20:00.000-05:00

We had a great time at the Children's Museum. The kids really enjoyed the fact that we were the only ones there!

Upcoming Events:

Wednesday, September 23rd Reading Benchmark
Thursday, September 24th Writing Benchmark and 0-5 multiplication quiz
Tuesday, September 29th Matter Vocab Quiz
Thursday, October 1st Class Party on the playground at 5:30

September 21st is the INTERNATIONAL DAY of PEACE...

2009-09-18T14:13:00.000-05:00

What can you do for PEACE?

Peace Pledge
by Janet Asante

I pledge to myself to have peace within my heart and to avoid conflict and be calm and peaceful. I will respect other’s opinions. If conflict happens to approach, I will try my best to resolve it peacefully and respectfully.

Multiplication Games...

2009-09-17T10:54:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow the children will have a fact quiz....Please study your 0-4 facts...
Ways to study

Online Games
Games
More Games
and even more...

Flash Cards ( make your own)

Draw or create ARRAYS

Look for patterns

Next Thursday our test will be 0-5 facts...

Call it Courage...

2009-09-16T15:56:00.000-05:00

The children love reading Call it Courage. Please check out these websites with your child.

Making Oobleck at home...

2009-09-16T14:51:00.000-05:00

1 box of Cornstarch

1 cup of water

a few drops of food coloring

Now you can test to see if it's a liquid or a solid!

Book Order due tomorrow....

2009-09-16T14:47:00.000-05:00

Book orders are due Thursday!
YOu can order online at scholastic.com
our username is : MrsRawsonsClass
Password: marktwain

Mystery Matter!

2009-09-16T14:24:00.000-05:00

Matter

2009-09-10T14:35:00.000-05:00

We are learning all about matter....I have linked some websites that might be fun to check out!
States of Matter
Properties of matter

Enjoy!

We Made an Egg Float in Water...

2009-09-10T13:32:00.001-05:00

Happy Tuesday!

2009-09-08T22:28:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Labor Day Holiday. I know I had a great time with family and friends!

Everyone enjoyed President Obama's Speech today. Please ask your child about the speech. Some of the kids wanted to write letters to President Obama responding to his speech. I think it is great they are so inspired. We will mail the collection of letters on Thursday.

The children are doing a GREAT JOB in L. D. C. We will continue practicing these writing tools in class. Please ask your child about O. S. I. N. E.

Math, Math, Math. We are working on place value. We are naming numbers, adding/subtracting, and will order and compare numbers this week. We are problem solving daily and the children are enjoying working in groups to share their strategies.

The kids LOVE the MATTER planner. It is so much fun. Please talk to your child about density. This week we will float an egg and experiment with the density of liquids. We will be going on a field trip to the Children's Museum on Tuesday, September 22nd. Please send $7.50 with your child. If you would like to go, please let me know!

Open House is September 15th at 6:00, hope to see you there!

Thank you so much for all you do! What a wonderful group of KIDS! They are such a fun bunch!!!

Collage...

2009-08-28T14:06:00.000-05:00

After an inspiration from Art for Kids we created our our self portraits...come see!