Mrs. Thames – ELA Classroom Information

Reading/Language:

Throughout the school year we will be working on many different standards such as theme, summarizing, making inferences, etc. We will use various novels to explore and learn the different 5th grade standards.  A class set of novels are provided for the students to use, however we have to share these novels with other classrooms so the students may not bring them home. Students will have to complete all make-up reading during school hours, so please be mindful of absences. You may also choose to purchase a book for your student if they need the extra time at home with the book; however, purchasing the books is not required.

Reading test are usually given each week on Thursday or Friday and consist of comprehension of the current novel and the standard or skill that is being taught that week. Language grades will be given on the specific skills that we are learning that week.

We will have several projects throughout the year that goes along with the current novel or skill being taught. Most projects are in-class projects. If the student uses their time wisely, they should not have very much or any work to do at home.

Homework:

Very little homework is given to the students. The only homework assignments that the students may have are work that they did not complete during class time and studying for test or quizzes.

Communication:

            Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns that you may have about your student. E-mail is the quickest and easiest way to contact me, my e-mail address is [email protected]. If a conference is necessary, conferences should be scheduled through the main office. Please be sure to join our class on the Remind App, this is the best way to receive class information, announcements, and reminders.

Accelerated Reader (AR):

            Our class participates in the AR program, in which students read books and can take a comprehension quiz to earn points. For every 10 points earned, students can receive a free dress pass. Mrs. Lerma also offers rewards for students that earn AR points.

Scholastic Book Orders:

            Each month I will send home a Scholastic book flyer. All orders must be made and paid for online. You can choose to have the book delivered to school or to your home. Our class code for online orders is: HBZVF

Birthdays:

You are more than welcome to send a treat for your child’s birthday to share with the class. However, we have a tight schedule due to switching classes so we do not have time for a party where family members come to participate. Sometimes we have to enjoy the treats very quickly and even while we continue to complete our classwork. Please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Contact the teacher 24 hours prior to sending the treats
• Do not send anything that has to be cut
• Please include plates
• Check with the teacher about food allergies in the class
• Be sure to send enough for every student

Classroom snacks/drinks:

            I do allow students to eat snacks and drink water in my classroom. Snacks need to be small, manageable, and not messy. No candy and gum. Students may drink water only. Water bottles must be clear, plastic and spill proof.