Dear Fourth and Fifth Grade Families,

The class settled into a full week of school last week with great success. Everyone was ready to learn, ready to play, and ready to work together as a class. The students continued working on Geography, sharing what it means, why it is important to learn about it, and the different tools we use to navigate our way around the world. Maps of the world, the United States, and the state of Georgia, were used to mark where students were born and who had traveled the furthest distance away from our school. The students enjoyed seeing how truly big the world is, and that it includes so many countries and cities. The class learned about the compass rose and how it is used for directionality. They did a wonderful job free-hand drawing their own compass rose in their Main Lesson books, labeling the cardinal and intermediate directions, and beautifully decorating it. The students took time looking at their desks from a bird’s eye-view and then made maps of what their desk looks like from this point of view. They then went around the school building and made a map of the building.

The class listened to Cherokee stories telling how the deer got his antlers and why the deer’s teeth are flat. They also listened to a story from the Paiute people of Utah sharing why the North Star stands still. The students have greatly enjoyed these enriching stories, which allow insights into these important cultures. They also begin this block’s reader Soft Rain: A Cherokee Story of the Trail of Tears.

Announcements and Reminders for Fourth & Fifth Grade:

Please make sure your child brings in a pair of indoor shoes that will stay at school. These shoes need to be hard-soled.
Students should come to school with two full water bottles and bug spray every day.
Sunscreen and hats are beneficial as we will be outside for snack, recess, and creekcess every day.

With Gratitude,

Paulyna