Week of March 16 to 20
Key Highlights:
Operations with Like Denominators: Students practiced adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers. The "Aha!" moment came when they realized that as long as the "denominators" (the size of the pieces) are the same, we can simply join or separate the "numerators" (the number of pieces).
The Great Conversion: We learned the "secret code" for switching back and forth between Mixed Numbers (like 1 3/4) and Improper Fractions (like 7/4). This is a vital skill for more complex math down the road!
Comparing Mixed Numbers: We practiced comparing values like 2 1/3 and 1 2/3. Students are learning to look at the whole numbers first, then the fractional parts, to determine which value is greater.
Key Highlights:
Before we began reading, we worked together on several vocabulary pre-reading exercises. This helped the students "unlock" the more complex words in the chapter, ensuring they could focus fully on the story's deeper meaning.
We engaged in some fantastic classroom dialogue about the consequences of Nick’s actions. The students are analyzing the characters' motivations—especially the legendary Mrs. Granger!
The chapter left us on the edge of our seats. We are all eagerly anticipating Nick's next move and wondering just how far this "Frindle" craze will go.
To mark the end of our hard work, all the 4th-grade sections joined together for a shared celebration. Students were placed into mixed small groups where they took turns presenting their final drafts to peers from other classes.
Each student had the opportunity to "take the floor," explaining their research and showing off their professional text features.
We enjoyed some special snacks while we listened to each other's presentations. It was a wonderful way to honor the stamina and dedication everyone showed throughout the writing process.
📮 Class Book Update: It’s Official!
We received a thrilling update from the Studentreasures Publishing company: Our class book officially arrived at their facility this past Wednesday! They are already hard at work transforming our pages into a professionally bound book. We are counting down the days until the finished copies arrive back at school!
Key Highlights:
The "Why" of Government: We began with a big question: Why do we need government? The students had thoughtful discussions imagining what life would be like without any rules or organization, helping them see how government provides safety and order.
A Government "By the People": We examined the famous first three words of the U.S. Constitution. The class discussed how "We the People" means that our government exists to serve us and is built by our own participation.
Living in a Republic: We explored what it means to be a Republic. We talked about the advantages of this system—specifically how we elect representatives to listen to our needs and make decisions on our behalf to serve the "common good."
Levels of Power: Students began distinguishing between Federal, State, and Local governments. We looked at the specific powers held by the federal government (like printing money) versus state powers (like school rules), and the "shared" powers they both have (like collecting taxes).
Tulip Time is coming! If you have a 1st through 4th grade student, please select how they plan to participate in the Tulip Time parade by using this form!
Upcoming Dates:
March 20: Reports Card Live
March 26 + 30: Parent Teacher Conferences
April 3-10 Spring Break
April 22-24: Book Fair at Rose Park (times coming soon!)
April 27 - May 8: Swim Lessons 1st - 4th at Holland Aquatic Center
Guinea Pig Sleepovers? Is your family interested in caring for a guinea pig over Spring Break? It’s a great way to try out having a pet for a short time! If so, please contact Mrs. VanderZwaag (kvanderzwaag@hollandchristian.org) to connect. Thanks!
Community Opportunities: The below list of organizations are not necessarily affiliated with Holland Christian Schools but have requested the sharing of these community opportunities:
Hi, I’m Aubrey Taylor (HCHS student) and I have officially launched a specialized babysitting service! As the oldest of 3 kids (one with level 1 Autism) and a daughter to business owners I know what it takes to combine responsibility, safety, patience and fun! If you need someone for a couple hours one time, a weekly standing appointment, extra hands at a birthday party or wedding, extra hands at a pool/the beach, or you overbooked yourself and need help! If you want to know more or to request a day/time, please goto this link and under my link tree is the form https://www.instagram.com/lakeshoresittersmi?igsh=YnJkaTVyc3h5cHRr
Our Spring Parent-Teacher Conferences are just around the corner! This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your child’s growth and look together at the goals we’ve set for the remainder of the year.
Key Details:
Dates: Thursday, March 26 and Monday, March 30.
Student-Led: These conferences are led by the students themselves! Because they will be presenting their work and reflections, student attendance is required.
Scheduling: If you haven’t had a chance to sign up for a time slot yet, please do so as soon as possible.
Promptness: To respect everyone’s schedule, we must adhere strictly to our 15-minute window per conference. Please ensure you arrive on time so we can make the most of every minute!
We can't wait to show you everything we've been learning! If you need help signing up, please contact the Office!
Lansing Field Trip Information:
Our field trip to Lansing (April 1) is quickly approaching! I sent home this paper copy detailing some important information for that trip. You can access the digital copy here. Please take the time to carefully read it.
From the Spanish Immersion Team:
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