Joustra Journal
CMCS 4th Grade Week of September 21, 2015
Dear Parents/Guardians,
“God is our refugeand strength,an ever-presenthelpin trouble.” These words from Psalm 46 have been running through my mind a lot these past few weeks of school. I have been quite exhausted with this transition from no schedule to a busy schedule, but God has given me the strength I need. He never leaves us without what we need to accomplish His will for our lives. What a comfort that brings!
Here is what to expect this week:
Bible
Our study of the Bible continues this week as we look at the beginning writings of the Bible. We will look at the writing of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Canaan, and Greece. We also will introduce our new memory work: the Old Testament books of the Bible in order and in categories. Your child went home with a paper today listing them. This will be due next week Wednesday (30th).
Social Studies
This week we are going to be looking at more of what makes the United States unique by focusing on Francis Scott Key and symbols of patriotism, and the government and economy of the United States.
Language Arts
We are continuing to study nouns this week as we look at nouns ending in –y, more plural nouns, common and proper nouns, and capitalization rules.
Science
This week we continue to study God’s fascinating flying creatures: birds. We will continue to look at birds found in our backyard, how to recognize birds, how to feed birds, birdbaths and birdhouses, and birds of the forest.
Miscellaneous
1)This week we will have vision and hearing screenings at school on Tuesday and Wednesday. Please make sure your child is present on these days for these screenings.
2)Card sales have begun! Last week your child came home with all the materials needed for this fundraiser that raises money for field trips, gym and playground equipment, and other fun things the elementary does. The goal is $14,000, do please help encourage your child to get out and sell! The sale will end on October 7. Please have your child bring in their order form and money each day they sell something so no money gets lost. We will return both items to your child by the end of the day so they can continue selling that night.
3)I once again wanted to take a moment and talk about homework and test corrections. I know that we sometimes have bad days and miss questions on our homework and tests. If your child receives a lower grade, he or she can correct that homework or test and receive ½ a point back each corrected answer. This will help them review the material again, and help boost their grade. If you have any further questions on this, please let me know and I’d be happy to answer them.
4)So far we have had our students coming to school with signed journals each day. Keep up the great work! We love to see you helping your child learn responsibility and accountability!
5)Next week is the annual Heartland Teachers’ Convention in Iowa. This means that there will be no school on Thursday or Friday, October 1-2. Enjoy the extra long vacation!
6)The ITBS tests are coming soon! We have switched from spring testing to fall testing this year. The dates for these tests will be October 5-9 (right when we return from the Heartland Teachers’ Convention). Please make sure your child is present throughout the day in order to take these tests! If your child does miss any, they will make them up when they return.
Blessings on your week,
Important Upcoming Events:
Tuesday-Wednesday, September 22-23 –
Hearing/Vision Screening
Wednesday, September 30 – Old Testament Books Due
Thursday-Friday, October 1-2 – Heartland, No School
Monday-Friday, October 5-9 – ITBS