April 2, 2008

With only a few days left before spring break, I wanted to wish everyone a restful week which is well deserved by all.

Update on grade 1:  There are 14 first graders in our gifted program.  This is the largest group of first graders and I am so proud of them.  They are very bright and extremely motivated.  We are continuing with our unit, "Stepping into Target".  The children are learning about different continents, researching feet on the computer, and analyzing literature through the various Cinderella stories set around the world.  In additon, they are gaining knowledge of the gifted program and the expectations.

Update on grades 2 and 3:  We are continuing our study of archaeology.  Last week we went on a field trip to the Univ. of W. Georgia and participated in a "mock dig".  The children had the opportunity to see what real archaeologists do at an excavation.  Our studies include a "taste" of different ancient civilizations such as Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, and several others.  The students have researched different archaeological wonders and are putting it together to present with Photo Story 3.  This is a wonderful program on the computer where the children can save pictures, add text, music and different transitions to enhance their presentations.  The students need to bring in magazines and pictures so we can work on "A Bridge to the Future" when we get back from spring break.

Update on Grades 4 and 5:  The sharks have been ordered and we are getting ready for dissection.  The children are finishing up with their big project, writing a research report on a shark .  We have taken notes, written outlines and completed the rough drafts.  Students will need to revise and edit at home as well as write their final draft.  The reports should include:  decorated cover, title page, outline in the correct form, final draft and a bibliography.  In addition, the children will be making a visual model of their shark to go along with the presentation.  Please remember to send in the materials requested.  The presentations should be creative!

I know the children are involved in various activities after school and projects in their regular classrooms.  Please encourage your student not to procrastinate when it comes to an assignment.  I know how easy it is to put things off but it only creates more stress in the end.  I remind the children that "not having time" is not an acceptable excuse.  School should be their first priority.  I appreciate all of your support.

Enjoy your vacation!!

Gail Jacobs