Social Studies

Today we started our Northeast (NE) Region learning. All the students took a pretest about the states and capitals in the Northeast. We went over the answers in class, and students were encouraged to take notes. Students will have a States and Capitals Test in the next three weeks.

 Our learning began. We started by getting organized. We labeled the names of each packet. We also took a pretest, by writing true or false in the "Before" column. It isn't graded. It gives us a chance to see what we learned between the start of our learning and at the end of the unit.

Our information packet is on the left and our questions packet is on the right.

 We highlighted the key words in the questions, and we started to read.

 We used the classroom map to clarify.

We completed the first page of questions together in class. We listed the steps we took for being successful.

Tomorrow, students will begin working with a partner to work on the remainder of the questions. Ms. Leom will monitor and offer support as needed.

At the end of the day, Ms. Leom emailed families to let them know more about our Social Studies learning.

Hello!

Your fourth grader is beginning our Northeast Region learning in Social Studies. Today we took the Northeast States and Capitals Pretest. We went over the test, and students were encouraged to record the correct answers. Then students received a second copy to study from. Students were encouraged to use scrap paper or a notebook page of paper to write the answers and study. I attached a copy if you choose to print additional copies. The final test is not scheduled yet. It depends on how long it takes the class to complete the reading, questions, and notes (usually within three weeks). It would be my intention to give students and families at least a week's notice of the final test. The final states and capitals test will have the states listed in a different order. The students are expected to write the capitals first, followed by the states. Each capital and state should be capitalized and spelled correctly, since the names are provided on the page. Students will not be allowed to use any notes or learning tools for the States and Capitals tests. Fourth graders will also have a final test on the information. Students will be able to use their notes on this final test.

I attached the learning packets we are using IN class. Students shouldn't need to bring these home unless they were absent or behind. We make a great effort to complete in class. We complete the first page of the Questions ("Anticipation Guide") and Notes ("Scrapbook") together on the Smart Board, modeling the think aloud, the steps, and more. Then students work with peers to complete. Ms. Leom monitors student progress and works with students as needed for student success. Work will be handed back if students rush or need clarification. Modifications will be need based on individual students and their learning needs.

We want ALL students to be successful!! Sometimes it helps when families know some details.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
Michele :)