Science Fair

STAR testing is finally complete, with all makeups being taken this Monday. Yay!!

As part of their homework, students should be working on their Science Projects in anticipation of the Science Fair this June. Topics and partners have been chosen, and information packets have been distributed. Each project centers on a question and the students' hypothesis (theory) on the answer. Students will devise experiments or investigations which will prove or disprove their hypothesis and hopefully answer their question.

Each project should have a tri-fold presentation board (see picture at left) for display in Bennett Hall on the day of the fair. These are readily available at office and art supply stores such as Staples or Michaels for about $5. I will have a limited number available for purchase in June.

Mission Platters

Each student is creating a mosaic Mission Platter art project. Check out more pictures in the Social Studies section of our PhotoSite. You can see the finished projects at Open House in two weeks!

In other news...

Please remember to sign and return all forms, including Weekly Reports. It is important that we get these in a timely manner.

Students have started the 5-a-Day/Steps to Healthy Living program for fitness and nutrition. Each student is encouraged to take 4,000 steps during school hours every day. Pedometers have been provided, and will be checked in and out for the next few days. After the completion of the program, students will get to keep the pedometers so they can continue their fitness regimen on their own. In addition, we are tracking the amount of fruits and vegetables being eaten every day. Students should eat about five servings per day to maintain good nutrition.

We are beginning to work on projects for this June's Science Fair. Many projects will take considerable time, so get started early (parents, look for the packet)! Some supplies, like construction paper, may be requested if needed and available. Most of the work on these projects will be done at home, so be sure to set aside some time and space to work on it. Some students may be working in pairs or small groups, so make sure you exchange phone numbers and meet after school or on the weekend to to work on it.

Finally, we resume STAR testing on Wednesday and Thursday. The next two sections will be on math, so make sure you practice your math skills. Get a good night's sleep and a healthy breakfast so you can be sharp for the test. Make up exams will be given next week.

Science Camp

Join Mr. Perry for an informational meeting regarding 5th Grade Science Camp for 2008! Stop by Room 9 at 7PM on Thursday, May 3 (after the Parent Academy) to find out more about this great opportunity.

Static Electricity

In Science, we are learning about Static Electricity. We did an investigation in which we rubbed these balloons with different materials and observed their behaviors. See more pictures by clicking my PhotoSite link to the left.

Paper Shortage!

As you can see, we are running low on lined paper! We have ordered some from the District Warehouse, but it has not yet arrived. So, I am asking that students supply their own paper until our order comes in. Thanks for your understanding!

Testing

California State Testing has begun! 4th Grade will be taking the Language Arts test on Wednesday and Thursday mornings this week and Math the same time next week. Please come to school ready to ace the CST!!!

Yearbook Orders

The 2006-2007 Washington Yearbook is complete! Make sure you gets yours by ordering one for $10 from the PTA. The last day to lock in this great price is Friday, May 4th. After that, it will cost $15. Order forms are available in the Office.