December 2, 2009

Dear Fourth Grade Parents:

I hope you all had a very happy Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends. We have a busy and exciting few weeks before the December vacation begins. I hope we all stay healthy during this time.

Yesterday, we embarked on a new journey in class, part of a school-wide study of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Fourth, third, and second graders engaged in a lively discussion of culture. What makes a culture? What do we know about the cultures of Afghanistan and Pakistan? What are we curious to learn? It is our goal to explore together the rich cultures and diverse people of these two Central Asian countries. Today our groups looked at several maps of the region to discuss how the extreme climates affect the way in which these people live and to learn some of the physical boundaries, surrounding countries, mountains, and rivers. Our future discussions will explore the unique topography, customs, history, and traditions of these two countries.

Following these introductory classes, the school will be divided into mixed age groups for a variety of hands-on activities, which will deepen our understanding. Students might work with wool, study folk dancing, or explore traditional cooking from these countries. These activities will be in place of our December craft time.

Our study of mushrooms will conclude in the next few weeks as we wait to see if our mushroom spawn will produce fruit. We will also do a brief science unit investigating paper towels. Students will use their critical thinking skills and sharpen their consumer awareness as they test paper towels for absorbency and wet strength, and compare pricing and manufacturer’s claims with their findings.

Fourth graders have been studying the life and work of artist Georgia O’Keefe. We have explored the scale, color, and composition of her work, and students have completed a pencil study in preparation for a painting they will do in her style.

I have a request regarding homework. As you know, students are asked to read a half an hour each evening. I ask students to keep track of that reading each day on their reading logs. Please encourage your child to fill in their reading logs. It is very helpful for me to know what they are reading.

Just a few reminders: The K-4 Spring Concert is Tuesday, Dec. 15, at 6:30 p.m. Students should arrive at 6:15 and meet in our classroom. December 18^th is a half-day. Dismissal is at noon.

As always, please call or e-mail me if you have any questions or concerns.

Best regards,

Libby