1. Third Grade Newsletter
GIFTED GAZETTE 3.1
Jan. 8th – Jan. 12th
What we’re learning this week…
Vocabulary
& Friday Test Schedule
Reading:
This week we will…read Chapter 5 in Because of Winn Dixie
compare and contrast character traits in two texts using The Cricket in Times Square
examine character interactions and how they change character’s feelings
Language/Writing/Vocabulary:
This week we will…
complete and present Friend Wanted posters to the class
use a mentor sentence to apply grammar skills with concentration on “dialogue”
Unit 1 Vocabulary Workshop (look for handout)
Spelling: utilize dictionary/thesaurus/dictionary.com references
Math: This week we will…
apply our knowledge of area and perimeter with the creation of a “Dream Room” project
begin our factions unit
master 1-12’s facts with “Fluency Friday” speed test: 25 correct facts
in 1 minute, 40 seconds
Project of the Week (P.O.W.): MLK web quest due Friday
Research: Students will interview grandparents/parents with focus questions about the importance of friendships. Students will begin making a list of interview questions in class. We will discuss interview etiquette and how to turn interview answers into a presentation.
Students will have choice in presenting their findings to the class either through audio/videotaped recording, PowerPoint, essay, etc…
More details to follow soon!
Reading:
Cold-Read comprehension test with short-answer questions
Vocabulary: Unit 1 multiple choice
Language:
“Friend Wanted” Poster/Presentation
Mentor Sentence Assessment with in class writing assessment
Spelling:
Assessed through writing. Students are expected to consult dictionaries, peer editors, and computer resources to monitor spelling when writing.
Math:
Final Area Test
Dream Room Area/Perimeter Project
Multiplication Facts 1-12 Speed Test
We will being our unit of Fractions. 
Please study multiplication facts nightly, especially if your child is not fluent with 1-12 multiplication facts (3- second rule). Many students are still relying on desk multiplication charts which will be removed for the second half of the year. Fluency with multiplication facts is a critical goal in third grade math. Our goal for Friday’s test is 25 problems in 1 minute and 40 seconds to achieve mastery. Try using mathfactspro.com or mathfactscafe.com for nightly fluency practice.
Tuesday, January 9th
Ms. Doescher’s Birthday!!!
Monday, January 15th –
Martin Luther King Holiday
A note from the teachers
Please check with your child about school supplies. It might be time to replenish pencils, erasers, looseleaf, highlighters, crayons, and markers. This is also a great time to clean out schoolbags and binders and toss old papers. (Kleenex, paper towels, and Clorox wipes are always very much appreciated this time of year:)
MOBY MAX LEADERBOARD! The top 3 students with the highest total amount of time spent working in MobyMax for January will receive a special treat for their dedication. In December our class minutes totaled 4,291. Our class goal for January is 4,500 minutes…kids will decide class reward!
Ms. Morrison & Ms. Doescher