A Peek at This Week!

Immigration Day

It has been a joy to hear the children share their heritage in class.  They were eager to share pictures, outfits, and stories about their family. As a part of our study of immigration in social studies, students will enjoy a simulation on tomorrow (Monday, November 23).  Everyone will come dressed as an immigrant (including the 5th grade teachers) as we help students to understand how to celebrate and show pride for the variety of cultures that make up the United States.  They will gain a better understanding of why Ellis Island existed and the importance of learning how to appreciate the uniqueness of others.  This is always a fun event for fifth grade students at Pontiac Elementary.  Please do not loose any sleep over your child's outfit, because dark colors (grays, browns, or blues)  plain, simple, outfits are the best if you are having trouble.  Thank you in advance, for sharing any special food items to represent your child's family with our students.  Ask your child questions about the day when he or she returns home.  Students who can verbalize the learning often retain the knowledge. After Thanksgiving we will discuss the obstacles immigrants faced once they began obtaining employment, residence, and education in America.  We will also discuss those immigrants who arrived at Angel Island in California. 



ELA 
In ELA students are reading the novel Letters from Rifka.  It is the story of a Polish immigrant girl who comes to America with her family.  Students have generated questions about the events taking place in the novel, they will also record literary connections, and write diary entries.  Along with their reading, students will explore commas in a series.  We will continue covering these topics after Thanksgiving. 

Magnet Choice 
On December 1, 2015 parents and students can attend the Magnet Choice Fair at Spring Valley High School. Please take a look at the Richland Two School District website so that you and your child can learn more about this event.  Parents should be receiving information about this event in the mail soon.  Let us know if you or your child have any questions. 

Avid
Our students did a fantastic job during the AVID visit.  The visitors were impressed by their use of academic language, respect for one another, and ability to discuss in cooperative groups.  Our students are beginning to speak with confidence and excitement in an academic setting.  We are so proud! This is a good time to update your child's supplies.  There are many students without highlighters, colored pencils, pens, pencils, and notebook paper.  

Enjoy your days off with your family!