Rooom 21 Newsletter, December 1, 2005

CLASS NEWS

We wrapped up our first Literature Circles. As the students met in small groups talking about their novels I heard excellent discussions about the characters and stories. This gave each child ample opportunity to share their thoughts on the books. I’d like to thank the parents who joined us as group leaders.

Our Storyline set in the town of Huk-Toocht is drawing to a close. Right now the students are investigating the differences between fish farms and fish hatcheries, with an eye on whether we ought to build either or both in our town.

Our salmon eggs are all hatched and they are almost ready to go into the river.

NOVEMBER I-SEARCH PROJECTS

I am excited to see the final I-Search reports next week (they’re due on Monday Dec. 5th). We will share the reports and then use them for other activities in the classroom.

FIELD TRIPS

We have two field trips before winter break. Next Friday we’re going to Sellwood Park to release our salmon and investigate the habitat they’ll live in.

The following Friday (12/16) we’re going to the Ecotrust Building in NW Portland where we’ll hear a presentation about the Wild Salmon Center and tour this Green Building and eat pizza.

AUCTION

The CSS auction is set for March 11, 2006 and it’s never too soon to start thinking about or gathering items for bid. If you have ideas or questions jot them down and I can pass them along to the auction committee.

In other fundraising news the Bridger Neighborhood school is selling cookie dough to help fund arts education in the school. Look for their table in the hall before school, or ask one of the teachers about ordering.

One of our students (Chase) and his family are helping with a canned food drive at the Burgerville on SE 11th and Hawthorne on Saturday December 10th from 6-9pm.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Dec. 5th I-Search final reports due
Dec. 9th Field trip to Sellwood Park & Oaks Bottom
Dec. 16th Field trip to Ecotrust & the Wild Salmon Center
Dec. 16th – Jan. 2nd Winter Break, see you back on Jan. 3rd

If you want to talk to me, you can contact me by phone or email
David Lifton 503-916-6336 or dlifton@pps.k12.or.us