Animation Studio!

8th, 2009
Day 63

Good Morning Claymation Creators,

This morning, some of you will be in chorus while the rest of you work on your Landform Dictionaries. We have so many projects going on that it is important you use your time wisely. We would like to complete everything before vacation!

Today, we will work in our Learning Centers. Of course, we will continue to be creative and write wonderful imagination stories! Remember to place your clip on the writing ladder and place your name card on the conference chart if needed.

We have a special treat today! We will begin to learn claymation! Claymation is an artform that can be a great way to express ideas. Mrs. Buckley will join us today and we will add this in as a center. You will use an element from your Time Travel stories to create a 3-D clay formation.

It sounds like we will have a wonderful day! So let's get ready to work hard!

Love your teacher,
Miss O'Brien
http://www.pwc.k12.nf.ca/projects/claymation/index.html

Happy Monday!

Monday, November 30th, 2009
Day 57

Good Morning Boys and Girls,

You are so lucky to have Mrs. Levitz here with you today! She is going to be with you and she runs a "tight ship". You will begin your day with a Spelling test and writing a learning goal for the week on your Learning Log. If you have time before we switch be sure to complete your handwriting in your work in progress folder.

In Reading, you will continue to work on your imagination stories. Also, you will get a new learning center contract! Be sure to pay very close attention and do your very best work. The schedule is up to date. If you are unsure of your group please be sure to check your stick!

I hope you all had a splendid Holiday Weekend! I will see you tomorrow! Please do your very best! I am thankful for each one of you and will miss you greatly today!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Football Frenzy!

Friday, November 20, 2009

Day 54

Good Morning Football Fanatics,

What a great surprise yesterday! Our signed Wess Welker Football was quite a highlight of our day!

Our friend Jayson kept his promise and sent the pictures of our class with the football.

Today we will be switching for math and ela. The focus in ELA will be writing! Are you eager to share your imaginary stories with the class? Are we going to travel back in time or into the future? Remember, we will be studying engaging beginnings so that our writing is attractive to our readers and hooks them in!

We have a half day schedule today and then we are off for the weekend! I am confident we will get lots done today! Each of you are very INCREDIBLE as you pulled together your Absolutely Incredible Kid statements in the short time we had yesterday! I thank you immensely for that!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Imagination Station!

Wednesday, November 18th, 2009

Day 52

Dear Imaginative Individuals,

Yesterday was packed with writing assignments. There were so many creative ideas focused on time travel to the past and future. Today, we will begin writing our first drafts. Remember the way Chris Van Allsburg hooked you into his story of Zathura? He used dialogue between characters to develop the older and younger brother relationship. Jumping right into the imaginative tale might ruin the surprise of what's to come. We will explore a few other ways to create an engaging beginning for your story today.

Yesterday, we were lucky to be visited by FireFighter Greg. He taught you many tips about Fire Prevention and Safety! I am eager to read your friendly letters and review your evacuation plans. Did you discuss a meeting place with your families?

Did you know?

On this day in 1928, Mickey Mouse was born by Walt Disney's pen. Walt Disney had the greatest imagination of all time! His stories are still read by so many people! You could be the next Walt Disney so get those creative juices flowing and write a descriptive story!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Absolutely Incredible Kids

Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

Day 51

Dear Absolutely Incredible Kids,

Today is a wonderful day! The choir is singing, the sun is shining, and I sense an amazing energy among the class. Today we will continue to work on our Imagination Stories focusing on time travel, record "I am" statements to boast about our incredible qualities, and begin our turkey pots!

A little history for you! On this day in...

1800 - Congress convenes for its first Washington, DC session.

1869 - The Suez Canal opens.

1913 - Panama Canal opens for use

Canals are waterways dug across land throug which ships can pass. These are "man made" which means people or machines create these channels for water. Let's try and locate the Suez and Panama Canals on a Map. http://streaming.discoveryeducation.com/hotbox/atlas/CosmeoAtlas.htm

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Parent Conference Week!

Monday, November 16th, 2009

Day 50 of School

Dear Stupendous Scholars,

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! It sure did rain cats and dogs on Saturday. Sunday was warmer and a little more pleasant, perhaps you raked some leaves or went for a walk. Meteorologists have predicted a beautiful sixty degree day today!

We have lots to do this week! We are going to stray from our typical routine and spend more time focused on our Writing. I am very excited to do this, because I feel many of you have some great skills to share. If we have time, we will work on writing a letter to our parents to recognize our strengths as we reflect on our first learning term.

There will be many more activities that await us, therefore it is important that we do our first job which is to practice our strong learning skills and stay on task! Earn those marvelous marbles.

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Friday, November 13th, 2009

Day 49 of School

Dear Historians,

Today is "Mom & Dad’s Day." Take some time to write a letter and/or poem to your mom and dad. You may also want to write a letter or poem for someone else who is important to you.

A few historical facts about this day are:

• In 1849 - Peter Burnett is elected first governor of California.


• In 1895 - First shipment of canned pineapple from Hawaii.


• In 1921 - "The Sheik," starring Rudolph Valentino, was released.


• In 1952 - Press On Fingernails are introduced.

On this day in 2009, we celebrate Brandin as the Good Citizen of the Month for October! We will have an assembly around 10:30. I am sure we will demonstrate our exceptional audience behavior!

Last night, you prepared your organizational chart for your HOW-TO writing! We will begin our drafts of those assignments today! Also, we will continue with our practice of answering questions and drawing conclusions. Please spend the morning catching up on your Daily Fix It and your learning log. It is my hope that you will be ready for your spelling test at 9:20 am.

Let's continue to earn our magnificent marbles as we work towards earning our turkey creations!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

http://www.pitara.com/reference/history/date/index.asp

Women's Rights

Thursday, November 12th, 2009

Day 48 of School

On this day in 1815, Women’s Rights Leader Elizabeth Cady Stanton was born. Stanton is well known for her work in the furthering of women’s rights. Why do you think women were not allowed to vote for such a long time? Think back to some women in today's history that broke the gender ceiling; Condaleeza Rice, Hillary Clinton, Harriet Beecher Stow. Can you think of the reasons why they are so well known?

Today, we will continue to learn about the structure of a play as well as polish our skills on Answering Questions by responding to prompts. In Social Studies, you will continue your exploration of landforms throughout the United States.

Yesterday was Veteran's Day. Did any of you honor the great men and women that devote their lives to serving and protecting our freedoms? Did you attend the parade?

Let's have a wonderful day and continue to earn marbles! We have turkeys to create!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Half a Day!

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Day 42 of School

Good Morning Boys & Girls,

We accomplished so very much yesterday. Today, it is my hope, that although a half day, we will have plenty of time to read Coyote School News and compare and contrast the Coyote School with our school.

I am sure you will be thrilled to get your new homework packets this week. In addition, we will be working on writing and reading journals. We also honor Brandin as our Citizen of the Week!

Let's have a wonderful day, and let's be productive as it is going to be a quick day! I am sure it will go by with a blink!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

New Month, New Responsibilities

Monday, November 2nd, 2009

Day 41 of School

Good Morning Terrific Turkeys,

Today is the beginning of a new month which means we have some housekeeping to take care of. Please make sure your behavior logs are up-to-date. We changed seats last week so that means we will change jobs at some point this week. Begin thinking of the job you would like, you will have to complete a job application in order to demonstrate you are willing to take on a new responsibility.

There are many things to accomplish this week. We must check to be sure we have completed our Personal Narratives. We will begin our Reader's Journal's this week as well. This is something I think you will like very much!

The word of the month is RESPONSIBILITY:

Responsibility- To be responsible is to do my part as requested every time. When I show responsibility others can relax, knowing that they can count on me.

I believe you are all responsible. You demonstrate responsibility to me each time you enter the room prepared and work hard to get your job as students done each day! Look for others demonstrating responsible behavior and write a praise note throughout the month to nominate a friend for this great honor.

Let's Have a Wonderful Day! Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Pajama Day!

Friday, October 30th, 2009

Day 39 of school

Dear Pajama Pals,

We are together again, and what a fun day it will be! Mr. Molinari has planned a pajama day for the Huntington Community. Let's survey how many friends are wearing their jammies!

This morning, we will begin with our Spelling test and then discuss what you were able to accomplish these last few days. In Reading, we will complete the selection test for What Jo Did and review our Reader Response questions.

Also, this morning, please complete a praise note to nominate and honor citizen for the month of October.

Let's have a wonderful day!

Love,

Miss O'Brien

Wacky Wednesday!

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Day 38 of School

Good Morning Boys & Girls,

Today is going to work a little differently than normal as I will not be with you! This morning you will begin with Social Studies, then continue to Art, followed by Computer Lab. Finally, you will begin your day of ELA.

Yesterday, you read the story "What Jo Did." It was an exciting tale about a little girl who was mistaken for a boy. After joining a group of boys in a game of basketball, her astonishing basketball skills were discovered. The boys were amazed at her talent and offered her the free ticket to join in the game anytime, provided she left her hat at home! I am sure you too have an amazing talent that has yet to be discovered.

This story taught us the lesson that it does not matter whether you are a boy or a girl, you can have a talent that can outshine a stereotype.

In your ELA class today, you will begin by completing the Reader Response Questions in your packet. Be sure to use text evidence to support your work. Then, you will work in the centers according to the schedule. All other materials for centers can be found in the red pocket chart on the back shelf.

I know you will have a wonderful day! Remember to be responsible and track your behavior and record a learning statement from yesterday and today in your Logs.

I will miss you! I am looking forward to hearing about your wonderful day!

Brandin, thank you for controling the technology! Shelby, at the end of the day, please remember to change the centers so they are ready for tomorrow!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Tuesday's here again!

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Day 37

Dear Boys & Girls,

Welcome to a new day! This morning we will be switching for Math first thing after chorus. This will be followed by ELA and then Physical Education with Mrs. Morrill. This afternoon you will switch again for Science. Please complete your morning work consisting of your Daily Fix-It and your learning log. I will ask a few of you to share this morning.

Today in ELA, we will continue to work on our Personal Narratives. Many of you have interesting stories about a time when you were a newcomer and perhaps had to make new friends. I am looking forward to reading and listening to more of your stories.

Also, we will read a story about a character named Jo. This character has a unique talent. Have you ever had a talent that others might find surprising? How can we help others showcase their great talents?

Let's Have a Wonderful Day!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Another Day!

Monday, October 26th, 2009

Day 36

Good Morning Boys and Girls,

Here we begin a new week! We have some unfinished business to attend to! I would like to spend some time finishing our Benchmark Writing as well as continue with our Personal Narratives. In reading we will focus our time on Cause and Effect relationships. I am sure you will be very familiar with this.

This morning, set a new goal on your weekly learning logs. We will take our Spelling pre-test and complete our daily grammar. Let's have a very productive day! Be sure to turn in your homework packets.

Sincerely,

Miss O'Brien

Live Like Writers!

Friday, October 23rd, 2009

Day 34

Dear Writers,

Today we will be spending our entire ELA block in Writer's Workshop. The writing process is a step by step process designed to coach us as we craft a well written, detailed essay! So put on your thinking caps and jog your memories to be prepared to write, write, write!

Ms. Gomes gave me a wonderful report. I am pleased with the appearance of the classroom. Well done yesterday! You will surely be on your way to a wonderful day and a great finale to your week. This afternoon, we will continue with our writing portfolio collages.

Let's have a magnificent day!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Strength in Community

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

Day 33 of school

Dear Community Collaborators,

Today, I will not be in the classroom. I am going to be thinking of ways to make centers more interesting for each of you as well as look at some of your prior assignments to get a sense of what assignments will advance your skills. I have the utmost confidence that you will have a productive day!

Your assignments today are very similar to yesterday. Your day begins with Health and Music. It will then be time for your ELA class. The first half hour will be dedicated to finishing or reviewing your Benchmark test. Remember to check, check, double check that you have answered each question completely and proven that you have gone back to the story by underlining the text. For those of you that finish, you will have a challenge to complete focused on climate and the United States.

For the remaining time in the period, you will get an ELA learning Contract. You will write a personal learning goal, then complete some activities INDEPENDENTLY! These activities review some important skills and strategies that we worked on all week!

During Social Studies, you will work as a whole class to make meaning out of the lines of the Preamble to the Constitution. All of your work will be collected at the end of each period! Please remember to do your best and work towards your learning goal (remember the one you set on your learning log at the beginning of the week, this should be the same that you write on your ELA contract.)

I will miss you today! Please do your very best as if I were there!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Huntington Hardworkers!

Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Day 33

Dear Huntington Hardworkers,

Today is a busy day! We will begin our morning meeting reviewing some of the qualities that make our classroom a unique community. We will read the Important Book and write a poem about ourselves that will help us to remember what each individual brings to the classroom!

In reading, we will continue to assess our reading skills by completing our Benchmark test. In addition, we will work on our Personal Narratives which will focus on reflecting upon being a newcomer. Remember to "zoom in" on your feelings so that the reader can get a sense of your situation!

Let's have a splendid day!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

A New Day!

Tuesday, October 20th, 2009

Day 32

Good Morning Inquisitive Kids,

This morning we will begin our day in Math with Mrs. Chase. When you return, we will review our ELA skills and begin part one of our Assessment.

This week we will spend a lot of time writing personal narratives. We will also work on the Regions of the United States. Remember that it is important to record what you learn in your learning log each evening before you go home. Let's take some time to talk about what we learned yesterday!

Yesterday, we reviewed the story of Winn Dixie. We discussed the genre of realistic fiction and practiced summarizing the story. We also looked at words that help us to sequence important events. In addition, we zoomed in on the character of Opal. It was discovered through the text that Opal is a sweet, caring, respectful young girl who finds a friend in Miss Franny, the librarian.

Let's continue along on our learning journey and review Grandfather's Journey and Lewis and Clark and Me this week!

Let's have a discoverable day!

Love,

Miss O'Brien

Full Steam Ahead!

Monday, October 19th, 2009
Day 31

Good Morning Reading Road Trippers,

This week is going to be wonderful! I have so many goals for us. It is Benchmark Week, this means that we will assess our knowledge of reading skills from the past 5 weeks of school. The focus will be on summarizing, main idea & details, author's purpose, and sequencing. I know you will all do very well, remember the choice to succeed is your's.

We will go back to each story this week and review what we have learned. Your reading center packets will help us to recall many of the important components of genre, setting, character, vocabulary and more! In addition, you will be introduced to a new center: Reading Road Trip. This is where we use the stories we read to help us understand the regions of the United States.

Finally, we will review our spelling words from the week and begin the Spelling Speedway Challenge! We will also add words to our Quick Word Dictionaries so we are able to track the number of words we have mastered!

Looking forward to a wonderful week! Full steam ahead along our learning journey!

Love your Teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Community Culmination

Friday, October 16th, 2009

Day 30 of School

Dear Community Members,

We are going to pack our day full of activities today! We will of course assess our learnings for the week with our Spelling, Grammar, and Reading Skills. Mrs. Chase will also assess your math facts and check in on your understanding of large numbers.

I hope we can find time this afternoon to celebrate our successes with an activity. Be sure to cast your vote!

Let's Have a Wonderful Day!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Yosemite National Park Adventure!

Thursday, October 15th, 2009

Day 29th Day of School

Dear Boys & Girls,

Today, we embark on an adventure across the country to California. While we are over in the Western Region, also known as the Pacific Region of the US, we will visit Yosemite National Park. Through the narrative non-fiction text, Letters Home From Yosemite, we will learn about the giant sequoia trees, towering mountains, and interesting wildlife that makes Yosemite a unique location in the west!

Today, we will also cast our votes to determine how we will celebrate our community accomplishment of earning 30 compliment gems as we "minded our marbles" to strengthen our fragile community!

Yesterday, I had a wonderful time playing "Do you wanna buy a duck!" It was so fun to walk like ducks to art class! I think we surprised Ms. Delehany.

We will have a visitor today. Superintendent Malone will be here observing the teaching and learning that takes place at the Huntington. I am sure he would love to learn more about what you are working on in class. Be sure to include him along our learning journey!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Friday, October 9th, 2009
Day 29 of School

Good Morning Red Sox Fans,

Today is Red Sox Spirit Day. It was a sad day in the city of Boston last night when the Red Sox lost thier first of five games in the playoffs. Let's hope our positive spirit here at the Huntington can inspire them to win the next four games in round 1 of the playoffs.

Today we celebrate Alyssa as our Good Citizen for the month of September. Her demonstration of RESPECT has awarded her this great honor! In addition, we will celebrate Elizabeth and Jayelyn for their hard work with thier Summer Reading and Math.

Today is also assessment Friday. Be prepared to turn in your homework packets, your ELA Center Packets, and take a few more assessments.

I look forward to a Fun-Filled Friday with my Fourth Grade Friends!

Love,

Miss O'Brien

Surprise!

Thursday, October 8th, 2009
Day 25 of School

Good Morning Surprised Students,

Yes indeed, I am present today! What a great surprise! Jury Duty was cancelled, that must mean there were no court cases to be held before a judge today. This is a wonderful thing simply because I get to spend the day with you!

We will continue with our centers today. Those of you that finish your reading responsibilities can work on assignments on the WORK BOARD. As Mrs. Henry likes to say, "If you think you're done, you've only just begun." As you all know, to meet expectation, you demonstrate you have a strong desire to learn more and more each day, so work hard and start another activity add to your learning journey!

Let's Have a wonderful Day!

Love,
Miss O'Brien

Historian Reporters

Wednesday, October 7th, 2009
Day 24

Dear Historian Reporters,

This morning, we will have Social Studies from 9:20-9:50. During this time, you will put the final touches on your Non-Fiction Posters that explain the historical event you have been studying in your Region Groups. Looking around the room, I am so very impressed with your progress. You are demonstrating excellence for which your Social Studies Grade will surely benefit! Keep up this great work!
Today is Wednesday which means following SS we will attend Art and Computer Lab. This will be followed by Reading Centers! We will work in the 10 important sentences center to practice sequence, the Fluency Center, the Comprehension Center, and the Writing Center. This will be oodles of fun! You will continue with these centers tomorrow as well.
I am looking forward to celebrating excellence in education today by rewarding students with trips to the prize boxes! We will work on organization of our new Homework Planner as well and you will get some great learning and organizational tools!
Let's get ready to learn!

Love Miss O'Brien
A FEW REMINDERS: FRIDAY IS RED SOX SPIRIT DAY! AND THE GOOD CITIZEN/SUMMER READING & MATH ASSEMBLY!

Southwestern Cowboys

Tuesday, October 6th, 2009

Day 23

Dear Southwestern Cowboys,

Today, we will travel to the Southwestern United States. We explored the land from a birdseye view yesterday as we watched the Discovery Education Explorers Video. Today, we will read the modern fairy tale The Horned Toad Prince. Although a fairy tale, it will expose us to the dialect, climate, and landforms of the southwest region. The character of the horned toad is modeled after the horned toad lizard which can be found in this region as well. I am sure you will find this story amusing and it will help you to make connections with other fairy tales you have read in the past.

Yesterday, we studied a few historical events that led to the signing of the Constitution. You will continue to work in your research groups to complete your posters. I am eager to learn more about what you have discovered about our Four Fathers!

Let's have a wonderful day!

Love,

Miss O'Brien

Fast Friday!

Friday, October 2nd, 2009
Day 21

Dear Readers and Writers,

Yesterday was quite a day. I am very proud of the way you were flexible as we worked in our center rotations for the first official time! This morning, we will work in learning centers again as well as complete a Selection Test for the story of the week, Grandfather's Journey. Together, we will compare and contrast the settings of Japan and California as described by the narrator. This may seem like a lot to pack into our block, but I know we will work together to complete it all!

In order to culminate our week, we will have Morning Meeting and a few friends will share. Elizabeth has something special to share. Perhaps we will hear another page of Alyssa's fabulous story!

I am looking forward to a wonderful day! Remember that your Homework Packets are due on Monday. If you have any questions, be sure to let me know before you leave today!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Begin Each Day as if it is the Greatest Day Ever!

Thursday, October 1st, 2009

Day 20 of School

Dear Boys and Girls,

I am refreshed and invigorated today! I have a great feeling. Perhaps it is because it is the start of a new month? Maybe it is due to the cool 40* weather? Could it be because I got plenty of sleep or feel organized this morning? There are so many reasons but all signs help me to maintain a positive attitude. When I am positive, I know I will be successful today! Let's all take a moment to think of what brings us a positive attitude and mindset. Place yourself in that happy place and repeat to yourself..." Today I will have a successful day and meet each challenge with a positive attitude!" What word do you think appears the most in this paragraph? Could that be a word to keep in mind ALL day long?

Today we are going to begin our Fluency Center, Target Skills Center, and continue with our Independent Reading Roadtrip Center along with the Writing Center. I love learning centers. I think you will love them too! It takes discipline, diligence (hard work), and organization. I know you can do it. I know you will be successful today!

We will continue our study of the Constitution this afternoon! We will learn a new song that will help us understand the history of our country!

Let's continue along our learning journey!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Constitutional Convention

Wednesday, September 30th, 2009
Day 19 of School

Dear Delegates of the Constitutional Convention,

Yesterday, we were exposed to an overview of the creation of the Constitution. We learned that it is one of the most important documents for the United States of America as it defines the laws and organization of our system of government. What do you think life would be like without a Constitution?

Let's think about the Class Agreements we have created. How are they similar or different to the Constitution?

Today, we will read Grandfather's Journey by Allen Say. We will also create our Learning Center Contracts and begin one center. I expect you all to follow the Reader's Workshop Guidelines. In addition, we will continue to Live Like Writer's and write at every opportunity!

I hope you have all previewed your homework packet for the week. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask. Please remember to complete the morning work.

Journey from California to Japan

Tuesday, September 29th, 2009
Day 18 of School

Good Morning Journey Men and Women,

I hope that you all enjoyed your three days of rest and relaxation. Today is Tuesday. We will take a journey to Japan and California as we read a story about a boy who recalls the memories of his grandfather's immigration to the United States. This is a wonderful story.

We are also going to read a story called Enemy Pie which will be a good way to help you write your own stories in your Writer's Notebook.

This morning, please begin your work and stay focused. We will meet promptly for Community Meeting at 9:00 am, as you will be visiting Mrs. Chase for Math at 9:30. We must be prompt and punctual in that we catch every moment of learning time!

Love you teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Fantastic Friday!

Friday, September 25th, 2009

Day 17

Good Morning Fantastic Friends,

Today is Friday which means it is the day we get have the Library Experience. What a privilidge it is to be surrounded by so many wonderful books and they are all available to you! Go on an adventure with a good book this weekend...you have 3 whole days off!

Do you have any exciting plans this weekend? Fall is in the air! This is the best time of year to go apple picking and carve pumpkins. This is my favorite season! What is your favorite season?

Today will be chock full of activities and assessments. We will once again attempt to launch the Writer's Notebook. We will continue to explore the Lousiana Purchase Terriroty with Lewis and Clark from the point of view of Seaman!

Homework Packets are due today! Be sure to turn them into the "Homework Hub" before Community Meeting! We will be correcting the Reading Skill Sheets to review before the test!

Let's Have a Wonderful Day! Don't forget to vote for the mascot!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

We are all Great Reader's and Writer's!

Thursday, September 24rd, 2009

Day 16

Dear Wonderful Writer's;

For the past few days, I have been inspired to write! For me writing is about sharing my feelings and thoughts. Do you enjoy writing? Perhaps you enjoy telling stories. Writing is simply that, telling or sharing stories. Today, we are going to launch the Writer's Journal. This will become a typical routine. I think you will find, that you too enjoy writing!

This morning, we have such a busy, busy plan! We will continue to learn about health and wellness with Mrs. Walker and express ourselves musically with Mr. Manuele. We will then launch the Writer's Notebook followed by Reader's Workshop Centers. We are going to learn so much together.

I wonder what types of stories you like to tell. This morning, we will hear from Brandin as he shares something special with us! Remember those 3 important questions and do your very best today! I will be walking around with tickets!

Love,

Miss O'Brien

What is the best Mascot to represent the Huntington School?

Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009

Day 15

Dear Mysterious Mascots,

This year is a special year for the Huntington Community. We are redefining our school by declaring a mascot to represent our positive school climate. What do you think symbolizes the Huntington Community? How can we help to develop a positive school climate?

Like yesterday, we will continue along our learning journey with Lewis and Clark! We will read the story and continue to practice our good skills as reader's and writer's!

Remember today is a new day! We will be looking for good behavior and great work so that we can reward you with tickets! Work hard to earn a puzzle piece and compliments.

This morning we have Music and Computers then we will begin our expedition.

Be sure to vote for the mascot!

Love your teacher,

Miss O'Brien

Along the Learning Journey

Tuesday, September 22nd, 2009
Day 14

Dear Motivated Journeymen (and women),

Today is the 14th day of school. We have accomplished so very much to this point. Can you share what you have learned about fourth grade? How about your classroom or Huntington Community?

Today is the first day of Chorus: Congratulations to Ariana B., Arianna P., Antones, Govanni, Dajah, Christina, Kevley, Jaylen, and Shelby! Showcase your talents and sing from your souls!

Today, we will review Monday’s assignments from the Homework Packet and take a look at tonight’s assignments. We will continue on our expedition west to explore the United States new territory purchased from the French, the Louisiana Territory.

As you enter this morning, please complete your Spelling Sort. We will begin Morning Meeting when our Chorus Members return. Remember, when you think you are done, you have only just begun….perhaps you have just begun a new book, or just begun your Reading Roadtrip Postcard, or a few assignments from your Work in Progress Folder, or started to ponder something for our Wonder Pot!

Every moment you are here in school, there is something that can be done to continue the journey along the road to learning and discovery!

Love your teacher,
Miss O’Brien

Exploring the Past!

Monday, September 21st, 2009

Day 13

Dear Excellent Expeditionary Explorers,

This is going to be a wonderful week! We are going to travel back in time with a Newfoundland dog named Seaman. He will take us on a journey with Lewis and Clark as they explore the old Louisiana Purchase Territory. We will learn about Author’s Purpose, the four types of sentences, and the Constitution.

I worked very hard this weekend to prepare a few new procedures that will surely help us to be organized and maximize the time we spend reading, writing, discussing and learning.

Please make every attempt to remember your individual jobs and goals in that you will have a successful week.

This morning at Morning Meeting we will discuss our Book of the Month The Three Questions. We will also play a new game, and hopefully hear from Arianna as she builds her Citizen of the Week Showcase!

Love your teacher,
Miss O’Brien

Do you want to buy a duck?

Friday, September 18th, 2009

Day 12

Dear Super Spellers,

Congratulations, you have survived your first full week of school. Each Friday is packed with a great deal of “ketchup.” What I mean is, we have to catch-up on all of the work we began and try to finish it up. In addition, we will take a few assessments to show what we learned this week. We will work on completing the GRADE test, and our Reading Comprehension packet.

Let’s work hard to remember all of the policies and procedures we have learned so far. We will also get started on our workshops in math and reading today. So put on your thinking caps and let’s get ready to learn!

I would like to begin our morning playing “You want to buy a duck.” Also, I would like to review the procedures for sharing during Morning Meeting. Monday, the first person to share will be Arianna Penna as she will be the “Citizen of the Week.”

REMINDER: Summer Reading and Summer Math is due Monday. Please make every attempt to turn it in!

Love your teacher,
Miss O’Brien

Thursday, September 17th, 2009

Day 11

Dear Community Collaborators,

Today is the 11th day of school. We have learned so much. Yesterday, you were all very responsible and controlled during the fire drill practice. I was very impressed with your sophistication and seriousness. In addition, you received many compliments from so many Huntington School Community members.

Today, we will be taking the GRADE. This is a test to assess your reading comprehension. This is tool that I will use to better prepare your guided reading lessons.

Yesterday, we read Because of Winn Dixie, and practiced using our reading skills and strategies to understand the text. Remember that Reading is thinking about many things.

Today, we will work on sequencing the events of Winn Dixie as well as answer the Reader Response Questions.

REMINDER: All homework should be placed in your pocket. You should have your Book Bags on your desk and your WHITE work in progress folder out. Keep an organized working area so that you are able to focus.

If you need help, remember those 3 important questions:

Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do?

When is the right time to do it? Always remember I believe in you!

Love your teacher,

Miss O’Brien

Happy Birthday Alyssa!

Day 9

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Dear Community Career Applicants ,

Today is the 9th day of school. Today is a half day. I would like you to recall Mrs. Saba’s presentation from last week. We must remember the guidelines of the school. Remember to walk through the halls silently and keep a watchful eye for the silent signal. This will help to maintain a respectful learning environment.

This morning, we will continue to practice our handwriting and I will introduce declarative and interrogative sentences. You will visit Mrs. Chase for Mathematics as well. If you need to visit Mrs. Maguire to purchase a weekly lunch ticket be sure to do that before Morning Meeting.

We must be very productive today as we need to end our day celebrating Alyssa’s Birthday. Do you remember the Wacky Birthday Song? Think of a special wish for her Birthday Beans!

Love your teacher,
Miss O’Brien

Day 8

Monday, September 14th, 2009

Dear Fourth Graders,

Today is the 8th day of 4th grade! We will practice more routines today such as how to write an entry in your writer’s journal, spelling, and vocabulary. There are many things to remember in the first few days of school, if you get stuck remember those 3 questions:

• Who is the most important one?


• What is the right thing to do?


• When is the right time to do it?
  

Today we will begin our typical reading routine. I will introduce a new center to you each time I feel you have mastered one. I will introduce your morning work which will be grammar and handwriting. We will study the Constitution this week in Social Studies.

This morning at Morning Meeting, we will announce the jobs. I think some of you will be pretty pleased. Also, this week we will change our seats in that you sit according to student number.

First things first, let’s gather our book bags and folders and get started.
I am sure we will have another successful day!

Love your teacher,

Miss O’Brien

Remembering Routines

Thursday, September 10th, 2009

Day8

Dear Students,

Good morning! Today is the 6th day of school. We welcome our Kindergarten Citizens to the Huntington Community today. Be sure to set a good example for all of them.

Today we are lucky enough to have a double specialist again. Mrs. Walker will be here for Health followed by Music with Mr. Manuele.

In reading class today we will work on developing our Passports to reading and discuss what reader’s workshop looks like and sounds like. You will switch for Math with Mrs. Chase and continue on your learning journey.

We learned new routines for homework yesterday and we will have many other routines to learn today as well.

Let’s have a wonderful day!

Love your teacher,

Miss O’Brien

Back after a long break!

September 8th, 2009

Day 4

Dear Weekenders,

Good morning to you! I hope you had an enjoyable weekend! I sure did, we are one weekend away from Patriots Season. Are any of you football fans?

This morning, you will continue to practice your handwriting, we will collect forms, and take a spelling pretest. We will begin our Book of the Month and discuss what qualities you look for in a teacher and I look for in a student! We will switch with Mrs. Chase today as well.

You will begin to get your normal homework assignments today as well as your September project; All about Me and My Summer Vacation!

I can’t wait to work with each of you today! Have a wonderful 4th day of school!

Love your teacher,

Miss O’Brien

Survival Skills

September 4th, 2009

Day 3

Dear Survivors,

You have survived the first 2 days of fourth grade! Today, is Friday, the day we celebrate all that we have learned this week! We will bid farewell at the end of the day and welcome our 3 day weekend in honor of Labor Day. Does anyone know what Labor Day celebrates?

Today we will share a few more thoughts about ourselves in our “Just a Thought Poem”, test our handwriting skills with a pre-test, and take a spelling inventory to see which spelling rules we have memorized.

I haven’t shared this year’s special surprise with you yet! This year you will have two teachers. I will be your teacher for homeroom, reading and Social Studies. Each day you will spend some time with Mrs. Chase next door to learn your Mathematics and Science Curriculum. We will practice those routines today!

I am sure you will have a fantastic day! I can’t wait for Morning Meeting we will play the game Zoom again and we will learn a little something special about each person!
I am sure we will have another successful day!

Love your teacher,

Miss O’Brien

Here's to Day 2 and a 4th Grade You!

September 3rd, 2009
Day 2

Dear Fourth Graders,

Today is the 2nd day of 4th grade! Today and every Thursday, we will have a double specialist. We will have Health at 9:15 am followed immediately by Music at 9:50 am. We will practice more routines today and review the many that you learned yesterday.

Remember the qualities that you said you had yesterday? We are going to share those at today’s Morning Meeting which will take place after Music.

The activities planned today are to complete a Coat of Arms, choose official seats and coat hooks, and complete an activity to establish teamwork and communication in your groups. Yesterday was so wonderful, I can only expect an even better day today!

Love your teacher,

Miss O’Brien

Welcome Back to School!

September 2nd, 2009
Day 1

Dear Fourth Graders,

Welcome back to school! Today is the first day of 4th grade! It is a new beginning and a fresh start. What do you hope to learn in fourth grade? Do you have any goals or things you would like to master this year? Think long and hard about this. As you and your classmates settle into their seats, please complete the personal survey that is on your desk! This will help me to learn more about you. Please use your very best handwriting as this will be saved for you to look back at on the 180th day of school!
Have a FABULOUS FIRST DAY OF FOURTH GRADE!

Love your teacher,
Miss O’Brien