Miss Lee's 4th Grade Blog

Perimeter and Area

2012-02-15T08:51:00.000-08:00

Everything you wanted to know about perimeter and area

Perimeter Rap

Perimeter and Area

European Explorers Research

2012-02-09T11:57:00.000-08:00

List of Explorers' Sites

Explorers Hot Topic List

12 European Explorers

Research Sites on Explorers

Explorer Websites

Projects on Explorers by Students

Math - Unit 6 Links

2012-02-08T09:03:00.000-08:00

In addition to your study guide and study links, practice the skills covered in Unit 6 by playing these fun games!

Banana Hunt - Angles Game

Measuring Angles

The Division Machine

Grand Slam Math: Multiplication and Division Word Problems

Billy Bug Game on Coordinate Grids

What's the Point? - Coordinate Grids

Science ISAT Practice

2012-02-08T07:28:00.000-08:00

1. BBC Science: Living Things

2. BBC Science: Materials

3. BBC Science: Physical Processes

4. Brainpop: Science
- Log in
Username: ivyhill
Password: eagles

What a Fun-Filled Weekend! :)

2012-02-06T07:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came out on Friday Night to Fun Fair! The PTA did a great job of providing such great fun for everyone. I enjoyed seeing many of you there! Thanks to those who stopped by my "Baggo" game.

Also, thanks to those of you who made it out to Thomas Middle School for our District's Variety Show. We appreciate your support of ABC/25 and our school staff.

The teachers had so much fun performing our dance, and the BEST PART was seeing you join us at the end for the flash mob! Here's a picture of the teachers after the show.

For those of you who couldn't make it, here is the video of our performance "Ivy Hill Goes "Glow"bal". Enjoy! :)

Long Division with 2-Digit Divisors

2012-02-03T07:58:00.001-08:00

How to Name and Draw Angles

2012-02-01T08:41:00.000-08:00

What Do Angles Have in Common?

2012-01-25T14:45:00.000-08:00

This is the symbol for an angle.

An angle is formed by 2 rays or 2 line segments that have the same endpoint.
The rays or line segments are called the sides of the angle.
The endpoint is called the vertex of the angle.
If the vertex of an angle is point T, the angel can be named angle T.

Measuring Angles

2012-01-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

Click on some of these math links to practice measuring angles!

What's My Angle?

Measuring Angles

Measuring Angles Video

6th Grade Measuring Angles

Create and Print Worksheets on Angles

Angles and Angle Terms

Angles Game

A Fun Video on Whatzit?!

2012-01-25T08:45:00.000-08:00

Internet Safety Posters

2012-01-24T10:27:00.000-08:00

Please click here to view all of the wonderful Comic Life Internet Safety Posters you created with Mrs. Polito in the computer lab last week. You all did a wonderful job of reviewing the important rules of the internet, and your facial expressions to go along with the rules are priceless!

Long Division

2012-01-18T09:03:00.001-08:00

Click here to see a step-by-step example of a long division problem OR...Watch this video that shows you how to solve a long division problem.

Now play this fun long division game!

Elements of the Fantasy Genre

2012-01-09T10:25:00.001-08:00

Fantasy Book List , Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh

2012-01-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

Fantasy Book List , Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh

January Reading Log Genre: Fantasy

2012-01-04T09:07:00.000-08:00

Fantasy Genre Examples

View more presentations from psheppard

The Winning Movie Is...

2011-12-14T14:18:00.000-08:00

Cars 2 had 11 votes, but Elf had 15!

Reminders:
1. Tomorrow is the deadline for Student Council rep. forms and Invention Convention forms.
2. You may bring in the following for our marble party:
-Pajamas/Stuffed animal
-Treat/Drink
*Pretzels and popcorn will be provided.

Congratulations on working so hard to earn another Marble Party! :)

Multiplication Wrestling

2011-12-08T07:27:00.001-08:00

Everyday Math Unit 4 Review

2011-12-01T07:37:00.001-08:00

In addition to the Unit 4 study guide you received today, please play the following games to help you prepare for Tuesday's test:

Funbrain's Measurement Game

Decimals of the Caribbean

Builder Ted(ordering decimals)

Decimals Quiz

Decimals Ordering Game - Click on "Decimals 0.01 to 9.99"

Cash Out

The Legend of Dick and Dom

November & December Reading Log - Historical Fiction!

2011-11-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

In addition to the handout you received that is attached to your November/December reading vlog(video log), check out these sites to help you understand the historical fiction genre.

Image courtesy of kimskorner4teachertalk.com

What kind of story is historical fiction?

Historical Fiction Book list - here is a list of some titles of HF books. Remember to choose a book that you can read independently that is "just right" for you.

History Alive! Chapter 1

2011-10-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

1. Read section 1.2 in your H.A. book.
2. Complete Map 1A in your ISN -- capitalize proper nouns and spell all words correctly. (use your H.A. book p. 13)
3. After you complete Map 1A, play the following online games:
World Geography - Choose your level.
Test your Geography Knowledge

1. Read Section 1.3 in your H.A. book.
2. Complete Map 1B in your ISN -- capitalize proper nouns and spell all words correctly. (use your H.A. book p. 15)
3. After you complete Map 1B,
a. Read p. 28-31 in the National Geographic "Map Essentials" book.
b. Answer the questions(1-9) on lined loose-leaf paper.
c. Play the latitude and longitude game.

Open House

2011-10-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

Thank you for attending Ivy Hill's Open House last night! The children were so excited to share all of their hard work with you! Here are the photobooth pictures from last night! :)

Math Practice

2011-10-21T04:57:00.000-07:00

1. Go to ixl.com and type in your username and password. Click "sign in."
2. Click on 4th grade.
3. Under "Number Sense", click on A.3 Word Names for Numbers.
4. Under "Number Sense", click on A.5 Prime and Composite Numbers.
5. Under "Addition", click on B.8 Estimate Sums.
6. Under "Multiplication", click on D.2 Choose the multiples of a given number up to 12.
7. Under "Functions", click on H.1 Input/output tables with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
8. Under "Probability and Statistics", click on V.3 Mean, median, mode, and range and V.4 Interpret charts to find mean, median, mode, and range.
9. Click here to access the Everyday Math Online site. Log into your account with your username and password.
10. Go to the McGraw-Hill Fact Dash Game. Choose Multiplication and the facts you want to practice.
11. Go to the EM Facts Workshop Game. Choose multiplication/division and your level.

Plate Tectonics Music Video

2011-10-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

Mount St. Helens Videos and Websites

2011-10-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Before and After video and images of Mount St. Helens

PBS Link on Mount St. Helens

The Geography Site: Mount St. Helens

An Article on Mount St. Helens...written 30 years later!

WeatherWizKids-Volcanoes

Remembering Mount St. Helens -- from the Seattle Times

Mount St. Helens Volcano Cam -- see what it looks like right now!!!

The Many Faces of Mount St. Helens

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Youtube Video Clip from the USGS

Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences

2011-10-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

Practice:
Take the Simple vs. Compound Sentence Quiz. Click on "Start now."

Rags to Riches Game on Simple, Compound, Complex Sentences

Plate Tectonics and the Continental Drift

2011-10-02T05:44:00.000-07:00

ISAT Update from the District

2011-09-29T07:46:00.001-07:00

For those of you who read the letter that accompanied your child's 2010-2011 ISAT report (grades 4 and 5), there was an error on the letter from the district. Last year, the state of Illinois did not have an ISAT writing assessment for any grade levels. District 25 students, once again, did quite well on the ISAT assessments, as you will see on our district and school report cards in October. Thank you!

Unit 2 Math Test on Tuesday

2011-09-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

In addition to the study guide you received today, please play some of these games to prepare you for the Unit 2 test.
The Place Value Game
Cookie Dough(written numbers)
Place Value Puzzler
Place Value Quiz
Train Race(mean, median, range)
Mode, Median, Mean Quiz
Mode, Median, Mean, Range

Attention Parents! EM Games Apps for FREE on September 24-26, 2011

2011-09-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

McGraw-Hill Education is offering five of its ten EM Games Apps for FREE on September 24-26, 2011.

The following apps will be FREE and available via the iTunes App store.

Addition Top-it
Monster Squeeze
Equivalent Fractions
Beat the Computer
Divisibility Dash

These game apps work with Apple iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touches.

The Theory of Plate Tectonics

2011-09-14T09:13:00.000-07:00

Click on the following links for games and activities:
Plates on the Move
Crusty Stuff - An Animation of our Changing Earth
On the Move Game
Plate Floor
Quicktime Animation of Pangea
Animation of Different Plate Boundaries
You Try It - Plate Tectonics

Continental Drift & Plate Tectonics

Spelling City Website

2011-09-12T14:09:00.000-07:00

Remember: Your login and password is glued inside your assignment notebook. Please remember to give your parents the letter about Spelling City today.

For homework tonight, please choose 1 or 2 activities/games to play. You should spend at least 10 minutes on your spelling homework tonight.

When you finish, please answer the questions on our WallWisher.

Please click here to play games and practice your weekly spelling words. Hope you have fun!

Important Dates for This Week

2011-09-12T05:36:00.000-07:00

Our MAP testing schedule:

Monday @ 1:30 - Reading MAP test
Tuesday @ 10:45 - Math MAP test

*** Please get a good night's sleep before your tests and eat a healthy breakfast. Be ready to do your best! ***

Reminders:

Science quiz(Layers of the Earth & Volcanoes) - Monday
Unit 1 Math Test(Geometry) - Thursday

*** Don't forget to complete your study guides and get a parent signature on them. You will receive your math study guide on Monday. ***

Grammar: Subject and Predicate

2011-09-11T19:33:00.000-07:00

The Tale of Mr. Morton - Schoolhouse Rock

Subject/Predicate Powerpoint Presentation - Click the 2nd one.

Online Games/Activities

Volcano Videos

2011-09-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

The Pacific Ring of Fire

How Volcanoes Form

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Unit 1 Geometry Games

2011-09-11T05:54:00.000-07:00

In addition to the study guide, play some of these online games to help you prepare for the Unit 1 Test!

*** Math Challenge ***

This video reviews how to identify, name, and label points, lines, line segments, and rays.

Nonfiction Text Features

2011-09-07T20:05:00.001-07:00

Study these flash cards

Time Lapse Volcano Videos

2011-09-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Click here to watch some time lapse videos on the Kilauea eruptions.

Information on Ordering Books Online

2011-09-06T19:47:00.000-07:00

• SIGN UP at www.scholastic.com/bookclubs. Onthe parent page, click the "Register" button in the "First TimeHere?" section. Register for your own user name and password. Whenprompted, enter the one-time Class Activation Code: GYWG6. This uniquecode ensures that your order is sent to me.

• SELECT the books you'd like to order --choose from thousands of titles -- many more than in our monthly flyers.

• SEND your order to me online by September 12th and your child's books will be delivered directly to our classroom. Thank you!

Math Terms Video for Lesson 1.2

2011-08-31T22:23:00.000-07:00

Layers of the Earth Video

2011-08-31T07:39:00.000-07:00

Layers of the Earth

2011-08-30T07:42:00.001-07:00

We read Faith McNulty's How to Dig a Hole to the Other Side of the

World today. Click here to see where you would end up if this were possible!

Where would you need to start digging from in order to reach China? Email me your answer and you will get to put a marble in our marble jar tomorrow morning!

Write on our Wall!

2011-08-26T07:58:00.000-07:00

Directions for Keynote

2011-08-26T05:58:00.000-07:00

This morning we will be going into the Computer Lab to create our T/F Quizzes using Keynote. For a video tutorial on Keynote, click here.

To begin, you will need to log into your server. *** Don't forget to "Save as" T/F Quiz the first time in your documents folder. After that, just click on "Save".

1. Open the Keynote

2. Changing Themes: Go to the top bar and choose a theme in the Themes drop down menu.

3. Changing Slide Masters: Change each slide to the same theme via the Masters drop down menu.

4. Adding Text: Make sure you use two separate text boxes -- one for your T/F statement and one for your answer.

Adding Images: To add pictures, click on the Media button at the top of the Keynote slide.

5. Then click on the Photo button. Drag the photos you want to the Keynote. You may also find clip art images here.
Username: ihstudent
Passowrd: 25student

6. Edit: (check for spelling, grammar, punctuation):
a. Go to: Edit
b. Scroll to: Spelling
c. Move over to: Spelling!
d. Change as needed

7. Revise: (read out loud to see if it sounds right, add missing words, sentences, etc.)

8. Slide Transitions: To change how one slide moves to another . . . click on the Inspector button at the top of the Keynote slide.

9. Transitions cont’d . . . :
a. Click on #1
b. Choose transition
c. Choose an effect
d. Keep Start Transition at On Click.

10. Changing Fonts & Sizes:
a. Go to the bar on top of the Keynote slide and click on the chevrons:
b. Next, select Format Bar and/or Fonts
c. Highlight the text that you want to change and choose a different size.
d. Use the Format Bar for simple changes . . .

When you are finished, you may "chat" with your classmates using Primary Pad. Click here.

Congratulations!

2011-08-24T15:08:00.000-07:00

You made it through your first day of 4th grade!!! :) This morning flew by, didn't it?! We only covered half of what I had planned to do, so it's a good thing we have a full day of school tomorrow! :)

I will meet you outside on the black top again. We'll be having a short "Back to School" assembly after we take attendance and lunch count. Hopefully you'll get to meet with Mrs. Opitz for music afterward. Then Ms. Csensich is going to talk to you about lunchroom procedures. After we finish organizing our desks, we will do some "get to know you" activities and set some goals for the year.

Don't forget to give the Parent Night flyer and letter to your parents. Make sure you do your homework; I can't wait to take your quiz that you created! Oh, and don't forget to pack a healthy snack for yourself!

I had a lot of fun taking pictures of you outside and around the classroom today. Thanks for being such good models for me, especially those of you who had to do some silly "poses". The pictures turned out so nicely! :) Please enjoy the video slideshow of our first day. I am looking forward to a GREAT year with you!

Welcome, Fourth Graders!

2011-08-22T13:55:00.001-07:00

If you made your way to our class blog, that probably means that you received my postcard welcoming you to a new school year and to the best year of your academic life(in my opinion). :)

I hope you are as excited about starting a new school year as I am! We will be embarking on a journey of learning together, and I know we will discover so many new and interesting things along the way!

We have 26 students in our class this year: 13 girls and 13 boys! We have a few new students to Ivy Hill so please be sure to make them feel welcomed and comfortable.

On Wed. morning, look for me outside on the black top. I'll be holding up a sign with my name on it and a camera -- so don't forget to smile! :)

We have a shortened school day on Wednesday so please be sure to check with your families about how and where you will be picked up if you are not riding the bus. School will be dismissed at 12:05.

Enjoy what's left of your summer, and I will see you all very soon!

-Miss Lee

Take a Peek Inside Our Classroom!

2011-08-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

Hard to Say Goodbye...

2011-06-07T14:32:00.000-07:00

Fourth Graders,

What a memorable and fun year it has been working with you! I can't believe the school year is almost over. I still remember meeting you on the blacktop on the first day of school! Some of you were eager, some of you were anxious...but you all had such great big smiles on your faces for what was to come.

I will really miss you all and I hope that you have a wonderful summer! This is my favorite picture of the year...it really shows how well you all worked as a TEAM. Even though we lost the tug-of-war challenge, I was so proud of you for being such great sports and for encouraging one another. I hope that you will continue to have positive attitudes, be cooperative, and always do your best.

Always your 4th Grade Teacher,

Miss Lee

Skyping with Author Rob Buyea!

2011-06-07T14:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had the wonderful opportunity to Skype with Rob Buyea, author of Because of Mr. Terupt. Thank you to Mrs. Polito for setting this up for us, and for the Kindle Club students that emailed Mr. Buyea! We learned a lot about what it takes to be a writer, and many of us were inspired by his story. We can't wait to read the sequel! For more information about Mr. Buyea or his novel, click here.

4th Grade Talent Show!

2011-06-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of people sharing their talents and special things they own with us! It was great fun for us and I thank you for bringing in your items.

Our Last Marble Celebration

2011-06-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

We will be celebrating with our final Marble Party of 4th grade on Tuesday, June 7th. We will be doing the following in the afternoon:

Talent show/"show-and-tell" -- I hope each person will bring a talent or something to share with the class.
I will finally share some of the stories you've been asking me all year to tell you!
Movie -- please bring in a DVD you think the class would enjoy and we will vote on Monday.
You may bring a snack for the movie, pajamas, etc.

Reminders for Field Day and Camelot Pool Field Trip

2011-05-31T09:07:00.000-07:00

For Field Day...

Wear a bathing suit underneath your clothes because you will most likely get wet!
Wear gym shoes since you will be running at some of the stations
NO WHITE T-SHIRTS
Bring sunscreen lotion so you won't get burnt. You will be outside for 6 hours!!!
Bring a water bottle clearly marked with your name on it.

For Camelot...

Bring a bag with a towel, sandals, and change of dry clothing
You are allowed to bring water toys for the pool, but NO WATER GUNS!
We will be walking to the pool after Field Day
We will be picnicking outside -- bring a disposable lunch(unless you ordered one through the school) -- you may want to include an extra snack for later in the afternoon. The concession stand will NOT be open.
After lunch, we will have recess at Camelot Park. You may bring sports equipment(frisbees, basketball, etc.), but it is your responsibility to carry them. We will not be responsible for any lost items.

ABC 25/Raffle Winner...Matt!

2011-05-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

The 4th grade teachers had a fun lunch hour yesterday hosting Matt and his 3 friends to play Wii Playground!

Slideshow of Reading and Science

2011-05-12T09:50:00.000-07:00

WEX Writing Meeting for All District 25 Parents

2011-05-09T22:25:00.000-07:00

Parents, if you are interested in finding out more information about the WEX Writing Program that the district implemented last year, please attend a meeting this Wednesday night from 7:00 - 8:00 pm in the Multipurpose room at Dunton(1200 S. Dunton).

A Great Week!

2011-05-06T08:33:00.001-07:00

Thank you once again for making me feel so appreciated this week. I loved seeing my favorite color and Bulls' gear on you today!Go Bulls!!!

You are so thoughtful!

2011-05-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

I had a fantastic day thanks to you! I loved receiving the basket of notes from you this morning. I finally had a chance to read them all after school and I was so touched by your thoughtful words.

Thank you to those who took the time to create such beautiful cards, letters, and notes for me. And a special thanks goes out to Alexis and her mom for making the cute basket!

This has been such a wonderful week and I thank you, your parents, and our Room Moms for organizing everything!

Thank you!!!

2011-05-04T13:47:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for the beautiful flowers this morning! They really brighten up our classroom and smell wonderful. Thank you also to Mrs. Stasik for arranging all the flowers into a vase this morning. Here is a picture of the beautiful arrangement! :)

Advanced Math...Hands-on Algebra

2011-05-03T13:54:00.000-07:00

Today was the last lesson of our Hands-On Algebra Unit. We had a lot of fun learning how to solve for the variable x using pawns, numbered cubes, and a scale. In our last lesson we learned how to solve for x without using any of these materials. We can now solve this problem simply by using our paper, pencils, and our brains!
2(2x + 4) + x = x(x + 1) + 11

MAP TESTING SCHEDULE

2011-05-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

Fourth graders will be taking both the Reading and Math MAP tests in the Library/Computer Lab this week.

Miss Lee’s Homeroom will take the Reading MAP test on Friday, May 6th, at 1:30 p.m.

Fourth grade students will take the Math MAP test with their Math teacher and class. Here is the schedule:

o Miss Gudonis' Math Class – Tues., May 3rd, at 10:45 a.m.

o Mrs. Galazka's Math Class – Tues., May 3rd, at 10:45 a.m.

o Miss Lee’s Math Class – Thurs., May 5th, at 10:45 a.m.

o Miss Papadimitrious’s Math Class – Thurs., May 5th, at 10:45 a.m.

Please get a good night’s rest before the tests and eat a healthy breakfast the morning of the tests.

Adjectives

2011-05-02T14:20:00.000-07:00

Click on The Adjective Detective site to go over the rules, take a quiz, and play a game on adjectives.

Click on I Never Know Which to Use for a slideshow of activities on using -er, -est, more ____ and most _____.

Quiz your knowledge of comparative and superlative adjectives here.

President Obama's Speech on Osama Bin Laden

2011-05-02T14:02:00.000-07:00

The president announced last night that al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed in a United States military operation.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Field Trip to The Art Institute of Chicago

2011-04-28T20:42:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday we went to the Art Institute of Chicago with Mrs. Avella. We had a very nice docent named Mrs. Sheehay that showed us some of the artwork in the museum. After lunch, we got to visit the Thorne Rooms. These are the miniature-sized rooms that we have been reading about in the novel The Sixty-Eight Rooms.

Be sure to use your free family pass to see all the wonderful paintings and sculptures that we didn't get to see! :)

Skyping and Science!

2011-04-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

Today we did two new and exciting things! First of all, we started our brand new Science Unit! It is on MATTER, but today's lesson(Lesson 0 -- that's right...ZERO!) was on using the "I Wonder" Circle poster to help us think like real scientists to test some experiments on gravity.

Teams of students worked together and did a great job testing out their theories.

We also had a surprise "visit" from our good friend and former classmate, Katherine! She SKYPED us from her house! It was lots of fun sharing what we've been doing in school with her and finding out what she's been learning at her school.

Colonial Billboards

2011-04-26T09:01:00.002-07:00

Plymouth

2011-04-12T13:25:00.000-07:00

Advanced Math -- Unit 8 Review

2011-04-11T21:04:00.000-07:00

Click on the following links to review and practice some of the concepts that we learned in Unit 8:

Review of fractions, decimals, and percents
Game converting fractions, decimals, percents
Play fraction, decimal, percent Jeopardy
Review finding common denominators
Practice adding and subtracting fractions
Adding and subtracting fractions game
Review how to compare fractions and then click "Start" to practice
Comparing and ordering fractions games

The First Successful Settlement...Jamestown

2011-04-06T07:42:00.000-07:00

Play the Jamestown Online Adventure game by clicking here. Read the info., scroll down, and click on "Start the Adventure".

The Lost Colony...Roanoke

2011-04-05T07:42:00.000-07:00

Adjectives

2011-04-04T11:34:00.001-07:00

Games to play:

PickIt Adjectives Game
Adjectives Worksheet
Grammar Blast: Adjectives and Adverbs
Identify the Adjective
Rats! Adverbs and Adjectives

Cultural Arts Fair Reminder

2011-03-30T08:29:00.000-07:00

Fourth Graders,

You can still submit a project for the Cultural Heritage Showcase until this coming Monday, April 4th. The projects will be picked from the school office on Monday morning (click on the flier to enlarge).

All students' projects will be showcased at the Cultural Arts Fair next Wednesday April 6th.

I hope to see you all there and I can't wait to hear you sing at the Fair!

Poetry Voicethread

2011-03-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

This Voicethread includes the following poems:
Limericks
Brown Bag (Couplet) Poems
Cinquain(5-lined) Poems
Two-Word Poems
&
A Famous Poem written by a famous Poet

Glogster Tutorial

2011-03-16T11:46:00.000-07:00

Advanced Math -- Order of Operations and Integers

2011-03-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Basic Skill Practice Games

Millionaire Game -- play with a partner!

Speedboat Negative Numbers Game

Negative Number Balls

Click the Correct Operation Game

Mystery Picture Order of Operation Game

CNN Student Newscast of the Disaster in Japan

2011-03-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

This is a ten-minute video explaining the cause of the Japanese tsunami, the effects of the earthquake and tsunami, and the concerns regarding Japan's nuclear energy facilities. After viewing this video, think about the answers to the following questions:
*How might an earthquake cause a tsunami?
*How fast can a tsunami travel?
*What resources do you think that survivors of the earthquake and tsunami might need right now?
*In your opinion, what might be some long-term needs for the regions affected by these disasters?
*In your opinion, what can you and your classmates do to help the people in Japan? What resources might you need to accomplish this?

Poetry Contest

2011-03-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

I want to applaud all of the fourth grade students who took the time and effort to write a poem for the Young Writer's of America Poetry contest. The contest judges have their work cut out for them! Please e-mail me at alee@sd25.org if you would like your poem to be featured on our class blog.

Don't Forget to Spring Forward!

2011-03-12T07:15:00.000-08:00

Do you know why we have to lose an hour of sleep this weekend? Watch this video to find out the history of daylight savings and what it is we're actually "saving".

Iditarod 2011

2011-03-11T13:48:00.000-08:00

Click here to see the latest video of this year's Iditarod race and the current standings. Most likely the winner will finish the race this weekend. Who do you think will win?

Advanced Math...Adding and Subtracting Integers

2011-03-10T07:58:00.000-08:00

Review how to add and subtract integers here.

Watch a BrainPOP movie on integers here.

Games to play:

Line Jumper - Choose hard, Really hard, or Super Brain

Walk the Plank

Casey Runner

Eat the Fish

Limericks

2011-03-10T06:54:00.000-08:00

Click here to review limerick poems.

Using Dialogue

2011-03-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of the list of speech tags you came up with this morning! Here are all the words we created in 3 minutes!!! Congrats to Alexis for winning $43! (of pretend money, of course!) :)

Did you hear about the volcanic eruption in Hawaii?

2011-03-08T08:13:00.001-08:00

A new vent opened at Kilauea volcano in Hawaii on March 5, shooting lava up to 65 feet high. Kilauea, located on Hawaii's Big Island, is one of the world's most active volcanoes. (From Time for Kids website)

Click here to read the rest of the article.

Iditarod 2011 Begins Tomorrow!

2011-03-04T14:06:00.000-08:00

We will finish watching "Balto" on Monday afternoon. As we discussed in class, the movie is based on a true story about a dog named Balto who helped save children from the diphtheria epidemic in the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska. This heroic and life-saving feat is commemorated each year with the Iditarod Sled Dog Race in Alaska. To learn more about this year's race(which starts tomorrow), check out these links!

The Official Site of the Iditarod
Watch this video on how the mushers and their dogs train for the 1,100 mile sled dog race.
Read Zuma's blog -- Zuma is the official canine reporter for the Iditarod.
Lance Mackey has won the Iditarod race for the past four years! Do you think he'll win again? To see all the mushers competing this year, click here.
Read some "fast facts" on the Iditarod and lots of good links here.

Underwater Archeology...Discovering the Past

2011-03-02T19:29:00.000-08:00

Alphabet Edit

2011-03-02T18:40:00.000-08:00

Here's a video clip of our class doing a brain exercise before our afternoon ISAT test. Alphabet edit involves reading aloud the letters of the alphabet from A to Z and Z to A while following a motion with our arms. As you will see, A to Z was a piece of cake! Z to A, however, was much more challenging!

Alphabet edit connects the left and right brain, helps eye coordination and improves visual, auditory, and kinesthetic ability.

Matt & Jenna's Highlights of the Week

2011-02-25T22:10:00.000-08:00

Awesome and Amazing Alliterations!

2011-02-25T21:06:00.000-08:00

Advanced Math -- Problem Solving Voicethread

2011-02-25T20:55:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for the ISATs?

2011-02-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

Next week is ISAT week. Here are some helpful tips to remember:

* Get plenty of sleep each night.
* Eat a healthy breakfast each morning.
* Concentrate on your test and do your best.
* Stay calm and confident during the test.

Here is our testing schedule:

Monday: Math I @ 1:30

Tuesday: Math II @ 10:45; Reading I @ 1:30

Wednesday: Science I @ 9:15; Reading II @ 1:30

Thursday: Science II @ 10:45; Reading III @ 1:30

Friday: Math III @ 10:45

Did you know that peppermint helps stimulate your brain and helps keep you alert? I will have some peppermints handy for you next week while you take your tests. Have you heard of the saying, "You are what you eat?" Well, if that's true, then you'll also be given some Smarties candy to help boost your confidence as you take your tests. I know that you will all do a fantastic job on the ISATs! I believe in you, and I hope you believe in yourself! It's time for you to "show-off" how smart you are! :)

Rocking The Isat Power Point

2011-02-24T07:33:00.000-08:00

View more presentations from Rachael Batchu.

Persuasive Commercials

2011-02-23T19:59:00.000-08:00

4th Graders, you did such a nice job creating your very own commercials using one of the persuasive techniques we studied. Can you tell which technique was used for each of these commercials? Can you tell who the target audience was for each commercial? Do any of these commercials convince you to want to buy their product? Which persuasive technique do you think is the most convincing: bandwagon, slogan, or testimonial?

American Express

White Out

Orbit Gum

McDonald's

Clorox

Vaseline

Evian Water

Big Pink Eraser

Milk

Who Wants to Win an XBox, Wii, or iPod Touch?

2011-02-23T14:06:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder about the Young Writers of America poetry contest. It's not too late to enter!

The 2011 Annual Young Writers of America is holding its student poetry contest. You must write an original poem on one of the following themes:

1) The World as I See It..
or
2) What My Family Means to Me...

Click here for contest rules and more information! Several students have already written and submitted their poems to me. If you would like to email me your poem, I would be happy to email it on for you.

Happy writing! :)

Figurative Language

2011-02-22T19:49:00.000-08:00

Onomatopoeia is a word that imitates the sound it represents. Watch this video using only onomatopoeia. How many examples do you see/hear?

A simile compares two unlike things by connecting them with the words "like" or "as". This music video will really help you identify the use of similes to compare two things.

Simile Video from Have Fun Teaching on Vimeo.

A metaphor compares two unlike things without using the words "like" or "as".

What is a Metaphor? from Mr. Morton on Vimeo.

Alliteration is the repetition of a particular sound in the beginning of a series of words or phrases. Many tongue twisters use alliteration. Watch this cartoon clip and see if you can hear the repetition of consonant sounds.

Chinese Parent Info. Night - Feb. 23rd

2011-02-22T08:01:00.000-08:00

Parents, please click on the flyer to enlarge.

Simile Voicethread

2011-02-16T08:33:00.000-08:00

A simile is a comparison of one thing to another thing using the words "like" or "as". Read, listen, and watch us share our similes about seven different nouns.
Click here to view our Voicethread.

Persuasive Commercials

2011-02-15T10:00:00.000-08:00

Can you tell which persuasive technique(testimonial, slogan, bandwagon) these commercials are using? Write your answers on a sheet of notebook paper. This assignment is due on Thursday.

Commercial #1

Commercial #2

Commercial #3

Commercial #4

Commercial #5

Commercial #6

Valentine's Day Party

2011-02-14T15:01:00.000-08:00

A "heart"-felt thanks to our wonderful Room Moms/Helpers: Mrs. Leazer, Mrs. Alvarez, and Mrs. Hong for throwing us such a fun party! We could tell a lot of time and energy went into creating all the activities, treats, and games.

The Power of Persuasion

2011-02-14T07:35:00.000-08:00

Watch this video on the persuasive appeals Ethos, Logos, and Pathos.

The Bandwagon Appeal: The bandwagon appeal is an advertising technique that makes the claim that a product is desirable because it is being used by lots of desirable people -- therefore encouraging the consumer to “jump on the bandwagon."

Testimonials: When a person endorses a product by stating how much they like the product so others will be persuaded to buy it.

Celebrity Testimonials: When a famous celebrity claims to use a certain product, it tends to stick in peoples' minds. So even if we know better than to buy something just because a famous person claims to like it, we nonetheless remember the pitch and the product.

Slogans: Slogans(or taglines) are used by most companies. They are used to make people remember the product. If you hear a good slogan, you'll remember it -- and then possibly buy the product with the slogan.

To see more explanations and examples of persuasive techniques used in advertising, click here.

Write on our Wall!

2011-02-12T13:22:00.001-08:00

Winter Poems and Pictures

2011-02-11T13:40:00.000-08:00

Before the big blizzard of 2011 hit Arlington Heights, our class wrote winter poems using our five senses. Students worked in small groups to capture photos outside on the playground one winter day. Here is Annie's poem:

Winter is white.

It tastes like soft marshmallows.

It sounds like the"WOOSH!" of sleds.

It smells like warm cocoa.

It looks like snow covered trees.

It makes me feel warm inside.

To read more winter poems, please click here to access all the students' blogs.

Annie, Genesis, & Joseph's Photos

Carol & Jennifer's Photos

Matt, Alexis, & AJ's Photos

Katherine, Jenna, & Katie's Photos

Michelle, Michael, & Clare's Photos

Chris, Katy, & Gustavo's Photos

Katy and Clare's Highlights of the Week

2011-02-11T11:02:00.000-08:00