Dear Parents,

The 4th quarter is upon us, the weather is changing and I'm thinking spring! In the coming weeks we'll be enjoying lots of spring-like activities to include outdoor science explorations as well as the occasional afternoon recess.

Yes, we have much to look forward to. As you know, our school auction is right around the corner. (I hope to see many of you there!) We continue to learn of God's gift of new life as we approach Easter and will be doing lots of fun and educational projects that celebrate life. Of course, there's Easter break to look forward to, as well as our visit to the Ann Arbor Hands-on Museum and our First Grade Picnic. Watch for information coming your way regarding these two events.

I'd like to thank Mrs. Ottolini for coming in to read to the children. I have to say that I'm very disappointed in the response for guest readers. If by chance you're interested, please let me know. We'd be happy to have you!

Have a great week!

Ms. Kopilchack

P.S. Look for 3rd quarter report cards next Monday!

Homework - Study spelling words, read (don't forget to record your minutes), attached activities.

This week's activities:

Reading/Writing
Our story this week is The Surprise Family. We continue our focus on story elements (character, plot and setting). We'll also learn about parts of a story (beginning, middle, and end) and how to summarize a story.

We will learn about the writing process to prepare us for our first attempt at writing our own individual stories. We will learn about prewriting strategies, writing a first draft, editing and writing our final copies so that next week, we are ready to begin writing A Bunny Tale.

Phonics/Word Wall Activities
We wrap up the long e sound and spelling patterns this week and will begin a review of short and long vowels.

Math
We continue with our Money unit this week. Please provide opportunities for your child to practice identifying coins and their values and with counting coins.

Science
Our health unit continues with a visit from our school nurse, Mrs. Lewandowski. We'll also learn all about keeping our teeth clean and healthy.

Religion
We continue to observe Lent by trying to follow Jesus. We are also learning about Mass.