4/22/14

Today was very exciting; the Oregon Coast Aquarium assembly was today! What a wonderful privilege for students to get a closer look at the coastal environment. The presentation was very engaging and informative. One of our students even played a key role as a seastar! 

 

This week we have been studying a variety of texts. We continue to study history and the Oregon Trail as well as a novel called, "The Hope Chest."  I also completed a read a loud by Judy Blume and we have jumped into "Fudge-a-mania," also by Judy Blume. In math, we have learned about stem and leaf plots as well as circle graphs. In writing we are continuing to develop our skills by really studying what a paragraph is and why it is important. 

On Friday, Jump Rope for Heart is tentatively scheduled for 10 AM. The second round of reading OAKS testing will begin next week. The secret word this week is, "aquarium." Thanks for all that you do!

~Katy Creason

4/18/14

What a wonderful week it has been. As our second round of OAKS testing begins, I could not be more proud if my students. Wow, they are fantastic mathematicians! The growth I have seen is incredible. Several students increased their scores by 10-15 points to "exceed" on the test. Truly, a reason to celebrate! 

This week we continued our informational text study to learn about the Louisianna Purchase and how Missionaries played a key role in the beginning of the Oregon Trail. Thank you so much for quickly returning field trip permission slip forms. Right now I have 3 volunteers and could use a few more. So if you can volunteer please let me know ASAP. 

In writing, we have been working on an expository unit. Students are writing advice to next years 4th graders. In math, we have been working on our data and graphing unit. Mr. Wyborney has also been in to teach a few lessons while I am in the testing center with students taking the OAKS. I know they have been enjoying him and his very engaging teaching methods.

Tuesday of next week, we have an exciting assembly happening; a presentation from the Oregon Coast Aquarium. This will take place around 2 PM. Jump Rope for Heart will also take place Friday morning. If you have time to volunteer, the help is always greatly appreciated. The secret word this week is "OAKS."

Thanks for all that you do!

~Katy Creason

 

 

4/10/14

This week our students have been working hard in the area of writing. We have been working through the writing process to create a story. We also are beginning an expository unit that will extend through next week. In math, we have been having a blast with our Data and Graphing Unit. Each student has been creating surveys, surveying other students, charting/graphing the data collected, and then interpreting and analyzing the results. During reading we have been learning about the history of Oregon in an informational text study. 

Our informational text study is preparing our class for our field trip to the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City. The tentative date for this trip is Tuesday, May 6th. We will be returning home from the trip around 4:45 P.M. We will be needing lots of adult volunteers for this field trip. Please make sure you are up to date as an approved volunteer for the district. More specific information will be sent home soon.

I would like to take a minute to let everyone know the final round of OAKS testing will begin Friday, April 18th and continue into the next week. The final day of After School Math will be on Friday, April 18th as well. 

The secret word this week is, "data." Thanks for all that you do!

~Katy Creason

First week back from spring break 2014- By Mr. Plaza

Today, was really productive day in math. Jose scoring a 100% and many others getting high scores to give them a winning learning gain and fun achievement! I, Mr.plaza made my return and helped others do really well on their work.  Also, we are learning about how to edit a rough draft. The kids were full of energy but it is Friday after all . We are also learning about agriculture and natural resources in social studies today. The kids seem to be really interested in agricultural crops. A final note-If you get a chance, go support me (Mr. Plaza) on Saturday as I play my first home tennis match of the year for TVCC against Spokane, starting at ten AM. 

Thanks,

Mr. Plaza

 

April 1st

It is great to be back after a long restful break. I am hoping you enjoyed some extra time with your wonderful children! This week we have dived back into learning head first!

In math, we are working through a short unit on probabability. In reading, we are studying Oregon and how Oregon's natural resources effect the economy. In writing, we are writing short stories using the writing process. Everyone really seems to be enjoying collaborating with a peer for ideas and help with the writing process. 

We have a lot of fun things happening soon here at Aiken. Please join us for Family Literacy Night this Thursday, from 6-7 PM at Aiken. Lots of great prizes will be given away and it will be a great time! 

The secret word this week is, "literacy." Thanks for all that you do!

~Katy Creason

 

 

3rd Quarter Fun

The 3rd quarter will be over on Thursday; how quickly it has gone! This week we wrapped up our unit on geometry. We have been learning about Oregon's geography and continue to work hard on the Common Core State Standards in reading and writing. On Tuesday, the class celebrated College & Career Day. Unfortunately, I was out sick but I am certain everyone had a good time at the Gator Buck Store and the Greater Gator Celebration for students who didn't receive any referrals this last month. 

Spirit week has been a huge success, don't forget tomorrow is pajama day! I am also excited to report that student council raised over $90 for hat day!  I hope everyone has a safe and restful Spring Break. The secret word for this week is, "break." Thank you for being so patient with all of my recent technological difficulties! 

Things You Need to Know

The last round of OAKS testing will begin around April 15th

Your child should have math homework Monday-Thursday night (if they do NOT attend After School Math.) 

Your child needs to be reading for at least 20 minutes each night (and part of that time needs to be out loud.)

Family Fun Night is Thursday, March 20th from 5:30-8:30 at the Middle Scool Gym

Family Literacy Night is coming soon to Aiken

Thanks for all that you do!

~Katy Creason

 

 

Another Great Week

Another great week is coming to an end. This week was a busy one as usual. In writing we wrapped up our figurative language unit. In reading we have been working on a character and setting summary. We also have been studying natural gas in science and even completed a mini science experiment. In math we finished our unit on algebra and are now studying geometry. 

One of the most exciting parts of this week was the NED assembly. What a great message! I am excited about the enthusiasm students have for "never giving up, doing your best, and encouraging others." The assembly was incredibly fun!

Tomorrow, (Friday) is pay 50 cents to wear a hat day. Students need to buy a sticker in the gym before school in order to participate in this event. This is just one of the fundraising events student council is putting on. 

Spirit week- Next week is spirit week. Dress up each day to show your school spirit!

Monday- "green day"

Tuesday- "career day" Dress like you would for the career you want to have as a grown-up.

Wednesday- "sports day" Wear your favorite sports gear or team's attire.

Thursday-"pajama day" 

The secret word this week is, "spirit."

Thanks for all that you do!

~Katy Creason