Summer 2010

Wow!!! I can hardly believe that the summer is coming to an end and school is about to begin! It is amazing all the activity that can be packed into two short months. I have spent my time playing in the water wheither it be the lake, pool, or ocean. I took several trips and attended several workshops. My family always goes to PCB, Fl for vacation however, this year we took an adventure to Myrtle Beach, SC. We had a great time but wow that was a long drive. I was horrified at the damage the recent oil spill caused to our beaches and watched the BP website frequently to learn of what was being done to stop it. How has the oil spill effected your family vacation? Did your travel plans change? Have you thought of any ideas of what we could do to become involved and help save the gulf? A close friend of mine held a photo shoot with 4 photographers to raise money for the gulf. I thought it was an awesome idea and I actually participated. Every small idea can help.

Natural Disaster: Haiti

Wow, I cannot believe the overwhelming tragedy the recent earthquakes have caused in Haiti. Before January12th I cannot say that I really knew very much about Haiti. My learning has certainly changed. Together we have learned that Haiti is a small island. We have learned that the people of Haiti are typically poor, which makes the earthquake tragedy worse. Together we have decided on raising money to send to the Red Cross. We also discussed our feelings and how knowing that their are kids just like you and grown-ups just like me in Haiti who are suffering. All of these feelings make you want to do more. I think that it is important for each of us to truely understand what natural disasters are and know how to be prepared. You have divided into groups and started researching the different types of natural disasters. What can you tell me about what you learned? Has your thinking changed? If so, in what ways?

Genre Study: Fairy Tales

We have been practicing the use of comparison and contrast. Through the use of this reading strategy we began a genre study on fairy tales. We have learned that each fairy tale contains certain elements that make them more than just a story, a real fairy tale. Which element did you find was a sure give away that what you were reading was in fact a fairy tale? Was it the beginning, the characters, or maybe the plot? What element did you find yourself looking for immediately as we began a new text? We have also learned that their are many versions available for our enjoyment of our favorite "traditional" fairy tales. Which fairy tale combination did you find most interesting and easiest to compare/contrast? Why?

Chris Van Allsburg Author Study Part 2

This week we have concluded our author study on Chris Van Allsburg with these stories. I think Chris Van Allsburg is an excellent writer and illustrator. I would love to write more like him. We have really focused on the author's message as we have read each of his stories. I think of all the things we have learned about ChrisVan Allsburg, the way his message in each story is revealed is my favorite. What message did you learn from one of these books? Did the message make you want to change in any way?

Chris Van Allsburg Author Study

WOW!!! We are definately finding out what an interesting author Chris Van Allsburg is. Each year I look forward to hearing what lessons students discover hidden inside these stories. Please share with me your favorite book from what we have read so far and what lesson you feel Chris Van Allsburg was trying to teach.

Thank You, Santa by Margaret Wild

This week we read Thank You, Santa by Margaret Wild. This book definately presents a different type of relationship with Santa through letters. I know the first time I read this book it kinda made me feel bad because all of the letters I have written to Santa have been all about what I want. I don't think I ever stopped to say thank you. I really was also a little jealous that Samantha had thought to become Santa's pen pal and communicated with him all year. How did this story make you feel? Would you want to be Santa's pen pal and learn more about him, besides toys and Christmas?

Loved Best by Patricia McKissack

If you were Carolyn, would you have tried to say the poem again? Explain why or why not.