Mrs. Rouse's Third Grade

              NEWS

                    For the Week of February 19, 2001
      Parents: visit our web site at http://www.ncusd203.org/beebe/ to read some Special Place narratives!  Click on Class Pages and then Mrs. Rouse's Class.
        IN THIS ISSUE:
        Reading                       Social Science
        Writing                       Spelling
        Math                          Interesting events
        Special Place Papers
        These papers were typed as the children wrote them in final copy form.  Take a look!
         Joe's Special Place
         Melissa's Special Place
         Sam's Special Place
        Katie's Special Place
        Tate's Special Place

        Reading
        Have you seen your child's mid year reading tests scores?  They were distributed to the class this week. Students completed the mind maps and we are beginning to present the information to the class.  We also began reading a novel called The Big Wave. Ask your child to tell you about the story.  Your child can also tell you interesting information about tsunamis.
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        Writing
        This week students organized, drafted and revised a five paragraph expository paper about the qualities of a good pet.  We are working on fluency, organization, elaboration and correct mechanics. Students were shown models of expository writing.  We discussed the need for transitions between paragraphs as well as within paragraphs.  Many suggestions were given by teachers and peers for topic sentences, leads, transitions and clinchers.  Although a great deal of modeling and discussion is still occurring, it is important to remember that students are expected to take more responsibility for their own writing. The teacher's role is becoming less evident. Students are asked to use checklists and peers to ensure that their papers include the necessary components.  Look for your child's performance on this expository piece next week.

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        Math
        We have taken the multiplication unit test. How well did your child perform?  We went over our tests as a class. We discussed the answers and students were able to see their scores.  Have your child tell you about the test results. We also worked on problem solving skills, and word problem strategies this week.
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        Social Science
        Ask your child about the transportation options in Japan.  How do they compare with Naperville?  Your child was part of a committee to help the Japanese city planners decide how best to cope with transportation issues.  What decisions did your child feel were best?
        Check out this web site for Japan! http://www.zehschool.mec.edu/g1/lemieux/japanweb.html
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        Spelling
        Students have taken the unit test for unit 21.  Do you know what the spelling pattern was for this week?  Have you discussed this pattern with your child?  The pattern is explained on the back of your child's spelling list EACH WEEK!
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        Coming Attractions/ Interesting Events
        • Parent/ teacher conferences will be March 8th and 9th.
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                    Created: February, 2000
                  Updated: February 22, 2001
                    Naperville Community Unit School District 203