� Writing/Grammar � Students are enjoying writing in their new creative writing notebooks. Soon, we will begin our Harris Burdick stories, which are inspired by the artwork of Chris Van Allsburg. This month in grammar, we will focus on identifying subjects and predicates in complete sentences. We will also learn how to fix fragmented sentences.
� Math � Currently, we are working with protractors to measure different types of angles � acute, right, obtuse, and reflex. We are also using compasses to draw circles, measure lines, and copy triangles. At the end of our unit, we will examine the attributes of polygons. For additional details, please see the Family Letter in this Friday�s folder.
� Science � In our energy unit, we are learning about potential and kinetic energy. This week we will test the potential energy in a rubber band when it is stretched to different lengths. We will also examine energy efficiency and forms of alternative energy.
� Social Studies � This month we will start our regions projects. As we study the regions of the United States, students will work in small groups to learn more about the geography and culture of a particular region. While the bulk of this project will be completed in class, there will be some minor preparations to be done at home. I hope that we will be able to complete the project before Winter Break, but I will announce a final due date once the work has begun.
� December Assembly � Please join us for our December assembly on Friday, December 19 at 2:15 PM. Entertainment will be provided by the Middle School Drama elective class. Our Talented Tornadoes will be Phillip and Sean.
� Holiday Pictures � We still need holiday pictures for our door! Please send in one or more pictures of your family celebrating the winter holidays (from Thanksgiving through New Years) as soon as possible. These pictures will be returned in January.
� GeoBee � On Tuesday, December 9, our class will participate in the National Geographic Geography Bee. At the classroom level, Mr. Sikes, our Middle School Social Studies teacher, will ask the students a series of questions about the landforms, languages, and cultures of the world. The top two scorers in the class will represent the fifth grade in the school competition, which will be held several days later. While no particular preparation is expected for this event, interested students can check out the National Geographic Study Corner at http://www.nationalgeographic.com/geographybee/study_corner.html.
� Important Dates:
12/3 (W) � Wordly Wise test 8
12/8-12/12 (M-F) � Book Fair
12/8 (M) � 3:15 PM � Help Session
12/9 (T) � GeoBee classroom competition
12/10 (W) � Spelling test 7, Reading log 2A due
12/15 (M) � No Help Session
12/17 (W) � Wordly Wise test 9
12/19 (F) � 2:15 PM � School Assembly
12/22-12/26 & 12/29-1/2 � No School: Winter Break
1/5 (M) � Classes Resume