February 2013 Grade 5W News

Dear Parents:

Here is a brief overview of what we are learning in the classroom:

Spelling--Students receive a weekly spelling list usually on Mondays, then have a spelling test on Fridays.  Students should review their spelling words during the week in order to prepare for their test.

Bible--Students are reading the Gospel of Luke.  A new Bible Memory verse will be provided to students usually on a Monday.  Students will be required to memorize the verses and also answer questions about the verses to test for comprehension and encourage personal reflection.  We are focusing on the theme "The Kingdom of God" in Luke.

Writing--Last week we have read an inspiring book, The Good Man of Assisi, a story about Saint Francis. We have been challenged to love God and serve others.  I have asked students to express their thoughts in  well-organized paragraphs.  Below are samples of students' reflection:

"Francis inspired me to give things to others by handing money to the poor, sharing food, and building people shelters."--Daniel

"He taught me that you should take care of God's creation and try to be more like him every day."--Cristian

"Saint Francis encourages me to be like him by being kind and encouraging to others."--Odelia

"Because of Francis, I will try my best to be loving, caring, and peaceful in all I do."--Joshua S.

Science--Students have learned about both simple and complex machines.  Next, we will be studying natural resources.  We will develop a Christian perspective on how humans may be responsible stewards of God's creation.  This week we have learned that all we need comes from the Earth.

Social Studies--We have read two books by an award-winning author Allen Say. Both books, Tea with Milk and Grandfather's Journey capture the struggles of an immigrant leaving his homeland to come to settle in a new home in North America.

Math--Students will be learning how to multiply decimals and using measurement concepts and skills.

Art--Students have painted an original playground.  T

Reading--Students have finished reading The Secret World of Og and completed a poster as part of their novel study. Currently, we are reading stories of immigrants, the challenges they have leaving their homeland to begin a new life in Canada.

Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about your child.

Blessings,

Mr.Wu
Grade 5 Teacher

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