Language Arts Curriculum

SMART Board

Room 7 was lucky enough to have a “SMARTboard” installed in the classroom.  I will be using the board on a daily basis with both the third and fourth grade students.  So far, the students have been very enthusiastic with the new interactive learning tool.

Third Grade Grammar

This year, the grammar curriculum will be aligned with the Reading series Treasures. The objectives for the grammar assignments will coordinate with the stories being read in Mrs. Water’s Reading class. Tests, quizzes, selected daily assignments, homework, and class participation will all be included in the tri-semester grade for each student. Any papers sent home with a percentage grade lower than seventy-five  should be signed by a parent or guardian and returned the following day.

Fourth Grade Grammar and Spelling

The HBJ grammar book will be used for the fourth grade curriculum.  The student is expected to take notes in class and create flash cards for designated vocabulary words.  Both will be used as part of the study guide for tests and quizzes.  Again, tests, quizzes, selected daily assignments, homework, and class participation will all be included in the tri-semester grade for each student.  Any papers sent home with a percentage grade should be signed by a parent or guardian and returned the following day.

The Treasures Speller being used this year for fourth grade, is part of the fourth grade Treasures reading series.  A spelling test will be given each Friday.  The spelling words will correspond with the vocabulary found in the stories read in the Treasures reading book.

Fourth Grade Writing

The fourth grade students will be given writing asignments on a regular basis.  Fourth graders are expected to use a word processor for all final drafts of writing assignments.  Rubrics will be included with each writing assignement to assess a student's work.

Homework

Homework is always expected to be turned in on the date assigned.  Daily homework is due the following day; long term assignments will have a due date listed on the assignment board.  Every student is expected to use an assignment book, and all information must be copied verbatim from the classroom assignment board into the student’s assignment book.  If a student does not complete a homework assignment, I will issue an “Academic Warning”, which will be sent home to be signed and returned by a parent or guardian.  On the fourth warning, an academic detention will be issued to the student.  The student will be expected to stay after school for one hour.

Behavior

Students are expected to follow all of the school rules listed in the Student Handbook.  In addition, please read with your child the list of “Classroom Rules” included in the Open House packett.

Communication

Please feel free to call me at any time with any questions or issues concerning your child.  If I have any issues or concerns, I will do the same.  Working together in a proactive manner will produce a positive and productive school year for your child.