Reading at Home

Today, the students were introduced to the fourth grade reading log. Like learning to play soccer or the flute, reading takes continuous practice in order to improve. We expect fourth graders to read for at least twenty minutes, five nights each week. The children receive new reading logs on Fridays so that they can begin their "at home" reading over the weekend if they wish. Reading logs are due in class on Fridays. It is important to check your child's reading log and sign it before it is doe in class. A link to the reading log document will be posted on this blog.

Happy reading!

-Mrs. Ryan

Helpful Homework Hints!

The children are becoming familiar with our classroom routines and expectations. During the next two weeks, we will ease into the fourth grade homework rhythm. Homework will be light for the next few days as the children learn how to complete Everyday Math, Wordly Wise, and Spelling assignments. By the end of the second week of September homework expectations will be consistent each night.

What to expect from fourth grade homework:

• If children are focused and working hard, homework should take approximately 40 minutes to complete. If your child is doing his best work, but the homework takes longer than 40 minutes, he can stop. He should write a quick note to me to explain that he did his best work for 40 minutes.
• Homework is written in the assignment book each day. Homework materials are kept in the homework folder in the binder.
• Typically, there will be two pieces of homework each night. Math homework, which we call the "study link," will come home daily. The second piece of homework will either be Wordly Wise or spelling. Spelling and Wordly Wise are emphasized in alternating weeks.
• If homework is not done, a missing assignment card will be brought home to be signed by a parent. The missing assignment will be made up during recess.
• In addition to homework assignments, the children should read each day for at least twenty minutes. Next week, the children will be introduced to the reading log which is intended to keep track of at-home reading.

How can you help?

• Homework is intended to be practice of the skills learned in school that day. Children should be able to complete assignments independently. 
• Check your child's assignment book each afternoon so that you are aware of the expectations. 
• Help your child to find a quiet and focused time to complete assignments.
• Allow your child to complete assignments independently so that I have an accurate sense of how well your child handles their homework responsibilities and material.
• If your child is having trouble, encourage him to write a note or seek help. This promotes important self-advocacy skills. I am always happy to give extra help!

Materials:

• It is best if homework is done in pencil. Homework may also be typed if word processing is helpful for your child.
• The Student Reference Book is a helpful tool for completing math homework.
• Your child will need his Wordly Wise book of Wordly Wise homework. He will need his spelling word cards and spelling book for spelling homework.
• All of the math study links may also be printed from www.everydaymath.com.
• www.wordlywise3000.com is a helpful resource for studying Wordly Wise words.

As always, please do not hesitate to email if you have an questions or concerns.

Thanks,

Mrs. Ryan