February 2015 Edition

Ms. Kelly Dinneen:

Ms. Corinne Hefter: Mrs. Stephanie Sherman:

Ms. Sarah Wolbransky:

kdinneen@bensalemsd.org chefter@bensalemsd.org ssherman@bensalemsd.org swolbransky@bensalemsd.org

In the World of Fifth Grade…

This month we will

continue to strive to keep the consistency of our daily routines. We will also begin mini lessons to prepare our 5th grade students for the upcoming PSSA Reading and Math exams in April.

PSSA Reading and Math: April 13-24

We would appreciate it if you try not to schedule any vacations or doctors’ appointments during these times.

Please check your student’s homework books and our websites for upcoming quizzes and test. Please continue to sign all graded assignments.

Recess Dress Code

When temperatures with wind chill

of 30 degrees or higher Valley students will have outdoor recess and are expected to be dressed appropriately. Mrs. Toller expects students to wear at least a winter coat or 2 heavy weight sweatshirts.

Winter Map Testing

Students will be taking their

winter reading and math Map testing within the weeks of January 26 through February 6th.

This Month’s Curriculum Communications:

In Literature Studies we are using Common Core texts to study comprehension skills. Spelling words will be given biweekly. Vocabulary quizzes are given every fifth school day. We are beginning to introduce Latin and Greek roots as well.

Writing:

We are working on completing our Informational five paragraph essays. The students are informing us of a talent they have or want to have and of the perfect career for them. We will then review all 3 types of writing using PSSA released writing sample prompts.

Math:

Unit 7 focuses on the exponential notation, order of operations, and positive and negative numbers.

We are continuing to study algebraic equations using the Hands on Equations program every Friday.

Science:

In Science we are focusing on the relationships between Levers and Pulleys and analyzing real world tools and machines that make them work.

Social Studies: In Social Studies we will be learning about early English settlements in North America. We will focus on the key challenges and successes of the settlements at Jamestown and Plymouth.

Snow Days In case of inclement weather please check for closings, delays, and early dismissals.

Phone: 215-750-2800

Information-line: Option #6

School Closing Number: 758

Watch Comcast Cable Channel 28/Verizon FiOS 32