2014-2015

About MeFirst, I would like to introduce myself. This is my

fourth year teaching in Loudoun County and at Hillside Elementary. Before teaching 5th grade, I worked as an assistant for two years in a Positive Behavioral Reinforcement Program for a 3rd through 5th grade Special Ed. classroom in Roanoke County, Virginia. Before that, I substituted for 4 years in Franklin County, Virginia for all elementary grades. I am very excited to be teaching 5th grade again this year. I believe students in this age range are some of the most amazing and enjoyable learners to have.

About me (cont.)I enjoyed my summer as I visited Mexico for

the first time. It was an amazing learning experience! I also spent time with friends and family, and am in the middle of buying my first home, which closes in one week. I have a lot of interests and passions including music, sports, movies, history, and good books. I also have 2 crazy cats (Mr. Norris and Ziggy) that have kept me company for 10 years now.

Binder OrganizationWe have organized the binders into various

subjects. Your child should file each paper, packet, or

assignment into the appropriate area. You can use the materials in each section to

review for tests and quizzes. Your child should bring his or her binder

home every evening.

Homework AgendaPlease initial at the bottom of the agenda

every day.The bottom non-subject row is a great place

to find out about upcoming tests, quizzes, and projects.

Agendas need to be kept in students’ binders.

Thursday FoldersEvery Thursday I will send home graded

work in their Thursday Folder. This will allow you to see what we have been

working on and how your child is doing. Please sign and return the half sheet to

school on Friday.If a student receives a grade of C (2) or

below, please go over it with your child, sign and return it to school in their Thursday Folders.

5th Grade CurriculumSOL tests are given in reading, math, and

science. All SOL tests are given in May.9 week plans are posted on the 5th grade

Webpage.

5th Grade WebpageOur webpage is located on the Hillside site

under the classrooms tab – then drop down to Fifth Grade link.

On our page you will find the following:9 week plans/Study GuidesEmail contact informationIndividual teacher pages

Newsletters Special classroom/subject information (upcoming

projects)

Homework ExpectationsHomework should be completed on a nightly

basis Monday-Thursday.Homework is always due the next day unless

noted otherwise.If a student is absent or misses class, they

have the number of days out to complete the work.

If homework is not turned in when due, it must be completed the next day.

MathSOL – May.We will not be switching for Math classes this

year. Instead, my class will go to Mr. Fortunato’s class for Math and his class will come to mine for Science/Social Studies.

Focus on preparing students for middle school.

Focus on problem solving and critical thinking.

ScienceSol- Spring MayUnits of Study: Earth, Rocks & Minerals,

Matter, Living Systems, Oceans, Light & Sound

Interactive NotebooksWebsite: Outlines and Vocabulary WordsStudying

Social StudiesSOL- none!Units of Study: 6 Regions of the United

StatesTests & Quizzes: study guides onlineMap Quizzes- states, capitals, and

abbreviationsInteractive Notebooks

WritingWriting ProcessGraphic organizers – plan to writingTypes of writing –descriptive, narrative

(entertain), expository (inform), persuasiveEditing and revising – major focusHandwriting – encouraged to write in cursive

and print. Spelling Quizzes on Fridays.

ReadingReading fiction and nonfiction selections

Improve reading comprehensionReading fluency – reading with expression

Reading a variety of genresPower Reading – Can you read 20 books this

school year? This is a goal, not necessarily a requirement. 15 – 20 minutes of silent reading in every

reading class daily reading at home

ManagementStudents will receive behavioral reminders

from teacher.3 reminders and student loses time off extra

recess.If repeated, a note or email will be sent

home. Great behavior = tickets!Tickets can be used for various activities or

prizes.

DonationsBean bagsBooks?

What’s Next?SpecialsReport CardConference Sign-upStudent Transportation InformationVolunteer InformationContact InformationTHANK YOU FOR COMING !