Hello Parents!

Today the students started off with gym, and then we got into our math lesson. The students were taught about interpreting survey results, and they learned two new keywords: sample, and bias. After a long class discussion (with many relatable examples!), the students were instructed to complete their textbook work. For homework, they must complete P#72, 73 in their math workbook.

After math we reviewed key aspects found in good persuasive writing pieces, and they were given a worksheet to complete for addition practice. This worksheet needs to be completed for homework, as they will be discussing their information with classmates tomorrow.

After recess the students had music, and then we focused on matter (for our UOI). We reviewed the three states of matter (solid, liquid and gas), and played a verbal game- categorizing items into the correct group. After covering that, we talked about the changes in states, and we sang a song about it! (Yes, another one of my hits!).

*sung to the tune of Happy Birthday*

Liquid to solid, freezing.

Solid to liquid, melting.

Gas to liquid, condensation.

Liquid to gas, evaporation.

Although the students made fun of me, I did hear many of them singing it afterwards, so… I win. J After the catchy song, we drew names for International Day, and the students were able to sign up for a topic of their choice. Many students asked if they could do more than one topic, and I said they were allowed to. So, tomorrow we will be opening it up to students who would like to research and represent another aspect of the Bahamas. **For those students who were away, you will have the chance to pick a topic whenever you come back to school**

After second recess, the students had French, and then at the end of the day we practiced our Christmas concert song. We are definitely improving! Tomorrow we will have more time to practice our song, and I have a feeling we will be ready to preform shortly after!

Just a few notes before I go:

1.       Math workbook P# 72, 73.

2.       Persuasive writing worksheet is homework. Students are allowed to write in point form, and will not have to present in front of the class tomorrow.

3.       Read chapter 21 in Percy Jackson

4.       Research the Bahamas, and pick a second area of interest, if you would like to represent another topic. Students should come prepared tomorrow, as they will be signing up  again tomorrow!

5.       Get your spelling test signed, if you haven’t done so already.

6.       “Candygrams” will be sold all this week! They cost $1.50 per candy cane, and the proceeds will be donated to help Brian Kiagon (a boy in Africa) attend school. Let’s try to help Brian achieve his educational dreams!

7.       Spelling test on Friday! (Lesson #15).

8.        January lunch forms are due on Friday, December 16^th.

9.       Re-registration packages went home this afternoon. If you are interested in registering your child at St. Jude’s Academy again next year (and I hope you are!), please be sure to fill out and send back the packages AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. The deadline for these packages will be February 9^th, and then after that date, spaces open up to the public. So, please don’t wait until last minute to make these important decisions!

10.   Practice singing, “Santa Claus is coming to town!” We have 6 days until our big performance!

11.   The grade 3 classes are organizing a food and toy drive, and are asking for non-perishable food items, as well as new toys/ books. We will be collecting them in each classroom until December 21st. This time of year can be difficult for many families, so let’s try to help out those who need it!

12.   Just a reminder for “Secret Santa,” the price limit is $10, and the students should refer to the form of their “Secret Santa” person, in order to make their shopping easier. I ask that students do not bring in their gifts until DECEMBER 21st or 22nd, as I don’t want it to get stolen or damaged. I have suggested that students wrap the present with a tag that says, “To: _____, From: Your Secret Santa,” and bring it in in a plastic bag (so students don’t see each other walking in with a specific gift, which will ruin the suspense).

13.   The St. Jude's Academy Christmas concert is quickly approaching!  The students are excited to share the performances that they have been busily preparing.  The Christmas concert is taking place on December 21st.  There will be two performances on this date.  The first performance takes place at noon, and the second performance takes place at 7pm.  Families are welcome to attend either (or both!) performance times.

14.   During the evening performance (at the Christmas concert), the class Christmas baskets organized by the Parent Guild will be available by auction.  There will also be refreshments available by purchase.  Please come prepared to participate in these exciting events!

I think that’s about it for today. Please email me if you have any questions or comments! I hope you all have a wonderful night!

Ms. Ramnarine

Grade 5

St. Jude’s Academy