Last Post of 2011!

How are my 5B Babycakes doin'?  It's been such a long time since I've chatted with you!  Luckily, I've run into a couple of you here and there (Kirsten at Wal-Mart and Alison peeking out her front door).  I hope you've been enjoying the fun times and family these past days off from school.  I definitely have had some good times and have rested up!

I was pretty excited to share with you a few gifts I got for Christmas that will benefit the class!  I ended up getting 2 (yes, two!) digital cameras.  I'm going to use one for home and one for school!  This will become new class job for us.  I'll have 2 people in charge of taking photos during the week during class activities and lessons.  These 2 people will need to upload the pictures to my computer, so I can add them to our screen saver and some blogs!  This new class job will be called "Photographers"!  (Makes sense, huh?!)

Other "gifts" I got that I wanted to share with you are not actual "objects".  They are more like opportunities.  We have the chance to be pen pals (or more like Email pals) with students from 2 different areas.  One is quite close, in Heartland, Wisconsin.  The other one is all the way across the globe right between Africa and Asia in a country called Dubai (pronounced like Doo Bye).  Doesn't that sound AWESOME!  I'm so pumped!

I won't post anything else on the blog until I see you again on Tuesday, Jan. 3.  So, I'll give you some reminders about life back in 5th grade (yeah, I know, you don't care right now....).  Too bad, I'm going to remind you anyway!
Due Tuesday, Jan. 3
Book-It Calendars!!  Remember, if your "Team" has the most members meeting the goal, I'll be happy to be treating you quite well on that first Friday back to school!  So, we can ONLY count the ones that come in ON Tuesday for this challenge.  Of course, you'll get your free pizza from Pizza Hut when you hand your calendar in.
Whole First Week Back
You'll be working on your Inquiry #2 Projects for Literacy.  I've grouped you with people that have the same interests as you do with the invention list we brainstormed that last day before break.  I think you'll enjoy the website we're going to use to present our information!  Be ready to research!

Ok...this is probably the LONGEST post this year, so I'll wrap it up!  This will be a true test to see who checks the blog most!  (even on vacation)  Look at the 2012 Wordle added to the top right section of the blog.  Find 4 words in the Wordle that might be fun for you in 2012.  Write them down and share them with me when returning on Tuesday morning! This will be tough to remember to do.

Have a great rest of your vacation.  Happy New Year to all of my 5B Angels (ding).  I'm excited to welcome the 2012 with you all!

We're Getting Closer...

Wow, I checked the countdown to vacation and couldn't believe what little time we have left together for 2011!!  My babies are growing up :( (tear drop, tear drop)

Here are few things to think about for the next 3 days...
1) 13 Colonies Test is still coming....
2) Finish reading book club stories
3) Short Assessment (will be on Tuesday)
4) End of Unit 2 Assessment (start on Wednesday, maybe need to finish on Thursday)
5) Finish and send off Caring in Cresco cards (if not done yet)
6) Practice for "you know what"
7) Talent Show on Thursday, Dec. 22 at 10:45:)
8) Desk and Locker Clean Out (some more than others...hmm...who could that be???)


I'll know you checked the blog if you write down the number of HOURS we have until vacation when you checked the blog.  You'll definitely be happy you checked it tomorrow.  It's always nice to see who takes the extra effort to check the blog....they will get to earn the reward for their extra effort!!!


See you soon... P.E. tomorrow...  just a reminder.

In a Blink of an Eye the Week is Over!!

We've been so busy this week that I just realized tomorrow is FRIDAY!!  Wow! It must be because you are my little 5B Angels! (ding...ahhhhh)

I'll keep it short because I know there are all sorts of things for homework to be doing:
studying for science tests (Friday and Monday)
finishing/practicing social studies projects (Friday)
math homework assignment (Friday)
studying spelling words (Friday)
studying 13 colonies (sometime when you least expect it)
some of you are doing some independent reading for me for LEAD 21
and DON'T FORGET YOUR STOCKING!!!!!!!! 


I'll know you checked the blog if you can find 2 things we've been talking about in literacy (1) Idiom  and (2) Metaphor.  Write them down and show me or tell me in the morning as you walk in!

5B Family Can Be Trusted Again...

Hey there, 5B,

I'm happy to share that one of our 5B family members admitted to the missing chocolates as he/she walked out the door Monday.  I'm very proud of the honesty shared.  I know that we all need to think twice before our actions sometimes.  But being truthful is the best way to fix a mistake.  I've noticed we might need to think twice before responding to people in class (sometimes I'm hearing some rude or disrespectful comments towards each other).  I have also noticed we might need to think twice about our responses to winning/losing a game (sometimes I'm seeing eye rolls or "looks" between people).  Also, I've noticed a little less participation in class discussions (sometimes the same helpful people have their hands up to share).  So, it seems like we all need reminders to be nice, not naughty, right?!  Remember, we've got everyone helping us and watching us, even S.C. (if you choose to believe!)  

I stopped by school later tonight and saw that some of you have a little something in your stockings!  I even had something, too!  We must be giving S.C. a good feeling by bringing in our stockings. So, if you haven't brought one in yet, remember to.  I'm sure Santa would get you something, too!

OK, I'll keep it shorter tonight.  Tomorrow is a busy day with limo rides, tug-o-war, popcorn, the Big Blast and of course LEARNING!  (Near and Far Book Club Group - don't forget coffee cups).  We will also be working on our Caring in Cresco cards.  It will be a goofy schedule again (I'm thinking you'll be stuck with me for the day, sorry, I like it though!) 

I'll know you checked the blog if you meet me at the door Tuesday morning and say, "What did Santa bring us?"  Of course, I won't tell you, but you'll go straight in a see for yourself if you have a stocking hung up!  

The Count Down Has Started....

5B,
I looked at the calendar to map out a few of our activities for the next few weeks and realized how LITTLE time we have left together for the year 2011!!!  The picture of stockings on the top right of the blog has 2 purposes:
1)  If you click on that picture of stockings at ANY time, it will give you the exact number of days, hours, minutes and seconds we have left until Christmas vacation!  It's kinda fun to see!
2) The stockings should remind you to bring in a stocking (Christmas, plain one from your drawer, borrow from a parent, friend, etc. as long as it's clean) to hang on your desk/table at school.  I was told by a certain someone (initials are S.C.) that you should have a stocking hanging on your desk/table BEFORE Tuesday, December 13.

So, be sure to check that picture out often as a reminder and a countdown if you're at all anxious for break. We also need to keep in mind ALL of the things we need to complete before that countdown is done... Look at the list below as a way of realizing how much we have to do...

*Finish Social Studies Colony Projects

*Social Studies Unit 3 Test on the Colonies

*Math Unit 4 Test on Division 

*Science Quiz or Test??

*Finish Persuasive Essay in Writing

*Finish Reading Theme for LEAD 21 and 2 more selections

*Another Weekly Assessment in Reading

*Unit 2 Reading Assessment

*Make Christmas cards for Caring in Cresco Activity

*Big Blast, Limo Rides, Tug-o-War

*Talent Show Practice

*1 last Skype with Senorita Rachel 

As you can see, we have OODLES and OODLES to do, and do it well!!!  So, let's keep the countdown in our mind, but make sure we still keep our heads on straight (hey, that's an idiom - doy!)  I'll know checked the blog by writing down the number of days, hours, minutes and seconds it said on the Countdown when you checked the blog.  Show it to me on Monday morning!  Have a great rest of your weekend.  Don't forget your stockings!  Maybe even remind your 5B pals to check the blog, too!  

Caring in Cresco....

5B,
I hope you had a fun and relaxing afternoon.  Some of you were headed to the movie in town, some were headed to the fitness center, some had to work, others were going to read, do homework or just hang out.  So hopefully, whatever you did, it was somewhat enjoyable!

I checked into the Caring in Cresco ideas we talked about after school.  I found out from the hospital that they don't prefer to use the blankets for little kids unless they are purchased. They loved the idea though.  So unfortunately, that idea is no longer an option.  Then I talked to the 4th grade teachers, and they have been donating and sending packages to soldiers that past few years (as a lot of you know who have been here before).  So, we don't know want to "steal" 4th graders' project from them.  But I thought maybe we could do another Caring in Cresco project in February for Valentine's Day, and that's when we could send something to our military friends and family.

So... that leads us back to the card-making plan for random Cresco residents.  I think all the ideas would have been great!  But at least this one can be done in the classroom without too many extra plans or materials.  HOWEVER, if you wish to bring some materials from home like special paper, stickers, stamps, glitter, etc. that you think would be helpful for card-making, please bring them to school.  We'll will be making special time to make our cards over the next week.  We want to make sure they get sent out right around Christmas.  I'll get the phonebook ready for random choosing of names!  Let's see whose Christmas we get to surprise and give warm fuzzies!

Let's see...other than that, I'm still looking for any possible volunteers.  A few students said their parents "might" be able to help out, but I haven't heard for sure.  So, if could you find out for sure from families and send a note with you to school IF your parent(s) WANT to.  That would be GREAT!

Also, don't forget to keep up the Book-It reading in December.... I'm coming up with all sorts of fun ways to spoil the winning group on Fridays! You'll definitely make others jealous with your special treatment and privileges.

I'll know you checked the blog if you visit The North Pole  (click it) and play around.  This website lets you check out recipes, play games, sing carols, chat with elves and even write a letter to Santa!!  Tell me what part you liked when you come in the room tomorrow.  That will be your proof!  Have some fun with it.

Halfway Through the Week Already???

Goodness me!  I can't believe the week is already halfway over.  My, my, time does fly when you are learning, listening and laughing, right!?

Just a few reminders for this week before I go much further...
Tomorrow (Wed.):  3-Hour Early Out, Library and Special "Caring in Cresco" Activity
Thursday??? Nuttin' Honey!
Friday:  Book Orders Due Already...I'm giving you a shorter time so the books would be here before winter break.

Book-It Groups are set!!!  Look on the board right away when you come in.  You'll see what Book-It Group you are in and then I'll share with you what "Fun and Freaky Fridays" means for the winners of December's challenge!

I heard some EXCELLENT ideas for talents today as you were walking out of the class today.  I can't wait to see some of them performed!  Hey, if I can get up there and do something for you, then you can do something for all of us, right?!  I was thinking maybe 5B could sign up to sing "Feliz Navidad" since it seemed to be quite a hit today with Senorita Rachel.  I could even come up with a short dance to go with it??  We could all get Santa hats or sombreros as costumes!!!  I'll add "Feliz Navidad" to my playlist to inspire your musical side.

Otherwise, I guess I can let you go now.  I'll know you checked the blog if you figure out the scrambled message below.  Write it on a piece of paper and give it to me as you come in.  I'll hand you back a little reward for checking the blog and proving it to me:)

pout not You better.

not You better cry.

better out watch You.

you tellin' why I'm.

Heard Friday Went Well!!!! Not Surprised...

Hey there 5B Babycakes,
Glad to know that Friday went smoothly.  I enjoyed the day with my family, but I did miss my 5B family, too.

Last week, you guys caught onto the new switch of schedule amazingly well.  With some of the extra events going on last week like the nutrition visitor, Kaitlin teaching us about plums and zucchini (here's the link to a zucchini muffin recipe I promised you) and the announcement for the 5th Grade Holiday Talent Show, I'd say you had a pretty full week!

I'll have the sign-up outside the 5B door for when you're ready!  Remember, it can be a pretty basic activity.  We're just excited to share it with you!  Maybe you can do the worm dance move, maybe you can dribble a basketball with your eyes closed, or even sing Row, Row, Row Your Boat in a round with friends.  I guarantee, we'll love it!!  So have fun with it!

A couple things going on this week...
Monday, December 5:  We'll be taking the bullying survey I sent home that note about.  It's done on the computer, and we'll be doing it out of social studies.
Wednesday, December 7:  3-hour early out & library
Friday, December 9:  You'll be advertising your colony for social studies class!  You'll finish up collecting research early this week, then you'll have time to begin your acting, drawing and speaking:) Heheheheeeehhhaaaaa

Ok, I'll let you go..  Your proof for checking the blog will be to let me know if your mom or dad is interested in volunteering to help with our Big Blast Celebration next Tuesday, December 13.  It will be somewhere in the 1:30 - 3:15 pm range.  Between 3-4 volunteers would be super.  If they have no interest or can't, just tell me.  If they DO have an interest and WANT TO help out, could you have them write me a note and hand this to me Monday morning?  I'd like to get an idea how many parents we have or if none are available.  Thanks for your help 5B and families!  See my munchkins in the morning.

Backward Schedule Tomorrow (Thursday)!

Yep, you read that correctly!  Thursday will be a backward schedule with literacy in the morning and your switching after recess.  We have some special events planned for tomorrow morning, so we needed to rearrange things!  Sorry...

Here's what's up for Thursday...
1)  Of course, handing in your November Book-Its...
2)  Changing Desks!  Right away... Check out the board right away and start moving!
2)  Special Visitors - they are bringing us information on nutrition and some snacks, I believe:) Yum!
3)  A special performance by some talented local citizens!  Lucky, lucky day!
4)  Finally, back to Skyping with Senorita Rachel! Because of our new schedule, we'll be Skyping with her during lunch!  Yep, that means we'll be bringing our trays back to the classroom!

What a busy day, huh?!  I'm sure you have a few questions about some of these events, but I guess you'll just have to wait and see!  That doesn't even include all the learning we have in store for you!  Whoa, baby!

I'll know you checked the blog if you tell me BEFORE coming in the room, "So, where's my new spot?"  Then, of course, you'll check as soon as you walk in!  Thanks for another great day!  We definitely mellowed out on the chatting.  Thanks for the improvement!

Smooth As Can Be With Our New Schedule....

Hey, there 5B,
You guys are making this "big change" we threw at you a piece of cake!  You guys can handle anything, can't you?!  Well, maybe a little chatty today, but always working hard!  Keep it up!

Here are the words to the social studies song that I promised you...

5B, What is Social Studies?
(whisper) It's in the past...
Stomp, Stomp, Clap
Stomp, Stomp, Clap
Stomp, Stomp, Clap
Stomp, Stomp, Clap
We will, we will learn from you.
We will, we will learn from you.
Little by little we're going back in time,
Checkin' out the dudes and the divas down the line.
Seein' what they did and how they changed the world,
Making it a better place for all us boys and girls,
Singing, We will, we will learn from you.
We will, we will learn from you.
(whisper) It's part of ussssssss......

Also, here's a little heads up for December... I'll remind you more as we get closer to some of the other dates.
Tomorrow, Wed., Nov. 30 - Library - don't forget any books you've had at home.
This Thursday, Dec. 1 - November Book-Its are due!  Let's see if 5B continues to conquer!
This Thursday, Dec. 1 - Special Visitors Come to 5B - Have to wait and see!
Next Wed., Dec. 7 - 3-hour early out

Much Later...
Tuesday, Dec. 13 - Limo Rides, Pudding Tug-o-War and BIG BLAST PARTY!!!!!  I'm looking for some parent volunteers who would be interested in helping out that afternoon. It would be for about 1 1/2 hours, I think.  So, see if any moms or dads would want to be a part of this fun day!

I'll know you checked the blog tonight, if you can come up with a "Christmas Wish List" for our classroom. If you could choose 3 things that would be nice to have in our classroom (have to be a reasonable price), what would you want?  It could be books, special paints, a bean bag, playground balls, special pens/markers, carpet squares, extra flash drives, etc.  Think about things that everyone could enjoy, not just you:)  I can't wait to see your ideas!

Be Thankful....

5B,

I sure hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family and friends.  To make sure you know how thankful we are for our 5B Family, here's a list of reasons for each person in our class.

I'm thankful for Joe because he is really friendly and can make really, really good jokes!

I'm thankful for Destiny because she is a good listener when Mrs. Sorenson is talking and at recess, she let's everyone join into the talking and games.

I'm thankful for Konner because he is respectful to all people.

I'm thankful for Sam because she is friendly and is always giving out warm fuzzies to everyone.

I'm thankful for Kyra because she always shares everything and she thinks about others before herself.

I'm thankful for Grace because she helps a lot with the classroom, she likes to get things done, and she likes to help other people.

I'm thankful for Kirsten because she always has a nice smile when she is in the classroom.

I'm thankful for Brooklyn because she is a helpful person around our class and respects people and things around her.

I'm thankful for Alison because she is very fun to have in the class and is very smart.

I'm thankful for Kim because she is quiet when the teacher is talking.

I'm thankful for Luis because he is a nice friend at recess and he works well with everyone.

I'm thankful for Marisa because she is great at sharpening pencils.. No one even has to ask her to do it!

I'm thankful for Jon because his is smart, helps out anyone if they need it and is awesome at sports.

I'm thankful for Kayden because he helps us get a good laugh when we need it and is a good help to Mrs. Sorenson and the class!!

I'm thankful for Colter because he maximizes fun and he is a good football player.

I'm thankful for Brendan because he doesn't care if somebody does something or not.  

I'm thankful for Nathan because he helps people when they are needing help, he's caring, respectful and funny.  He also helps clean up the classroom.

I'm thankful for Jordan because he is really great at football and other sports, is really caring in class and he listens really well.  He has lots of sportsmanship.

I'm thankful for Ashley because she is a good friend, cares about people's feelings, is fun to be around and she helps out a lot.

I'm thankful for Payton because she helps when she can, likes to help and is not talking when the teacher is.

I'm thankful for Jarrett because he is funny, he is really fast at math, and he is smart.

I'm thankful for Trista because she listens very well and offers to help when needed.  She does not complain, is a high energy person.  5B would definitely not be the same without her.

Wow!!  It is obvious that 5B cares for each other and sees what unique qualities each student has!  That's why I just love my 5B babies!!  I'm thankful to be able to spend a year with such an amazing class!

Have a great last day of relaxation!  I'll know you checked the blog if you play this Line and Dot Game. Just click on the words that are in red and underlined.  It will take you to a game.  Read the directions and scroll down for the game.  Tell me on Monday if you won or lost.  

Mrs. Sorenson Takes on Social Studies!!!

Yep, so you know the news now.  I'm sure it will be different for everyone, especially the students since you are so used to Mrs. Halverson's way of teaching social studies.  But after Thanksgiving break, be ready for something new!  Who knows what you'll be doing! Ya know, I don't get called weird, strange, crazy or goofy for nothing!  So be prepared for what is to come!

Other than that big news, I just wanted to compliment 5B and the rest of 5th grade for their AMAZING efforts and attitude toward their technology projects.  I feel like I'm working with high school and college students with all of your independence and expertise!  VERY IMPRESSED!  I've got a few new ones for you to explore tomorrow since may of your are getting done:)

Ok.. don't forget these items...
1) Math S.L. 3.8 is due to me tomorrow...or plan on recess with me... (even a note from your parents won't work because you've known about this for a week)
2)  Big Change Note should be signed and returned by Wednesday.  We want to make sure your families know all about this and understand what will be happening next Monday.
3) Book-It!  Let's keep the winning streak!  It would be great to chew, chew, chew our way through December!

Since we're getting closer to Thanksgiving, I'll know you checked the blog if you tell me your favorite food during Thanksgiving meals.  If you don't have one, then tell me what you'd love to have on Thanksgiving.  For example, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE warm, buttery, homemade rolls.  YUM!!!

Changes Are Getting Closer....

5B,
With the HUGE changes that are coming to you, there has to be some planning for it.  So, the 5th grade teachers will need to be gone on Thursday from class.  We will be in the building, but you will have substitute teachers in all of the classes:  Soc.St./Science, Literacy and Math/WS.  The last 2 subs thought 5th grade and 5B was a blast, and they were overly impressed.  I'm SURE this will be the same feeling from the subs that see you on Thursday.  RIGHT????

I'll leave instructions for the sub to be watching for extra respectful, responsible and trustworthy behaviors.  In fact, I will be leaving 10 yellow slips out for her to use with ONLY 5B students.  She can award them to anyone she feels earns them.  If that means somebody gets 2 or 3 or even 4 of them in one day, that's a pretty amazing and lucky student!  Remember, they will be picking up yellow slips at the end of the day Thursday, so be sure to get yours in there!

The Smartboard won't be running tomorrow because I'll be needing my computer for planning the big changes!  So, Trista will have to do attendance from the whiteboard.  Joe, make it a good pledge tomorrow!

Your homework should be done (small blue packet - "Camping" and large blue packet - Subjects (Who or What?) & Predicates (What's it doin'?)  Have these with you and DONE for tomorrow!

Tomorrow will be more time for Technology Projects, so you'll need to use your time wisely and be patient.  Sometimes a substitute teacher is not as comfortable with all these projects.  Please show her that you can be helpful, use time wisely and be independent.

I can't wait to see what progress you make with your projects.  Your last day to work on them will be next Tuesday.   (That means you have Thursday, Friday, Monday and Tuesday) We'll be sharing them with the class on Wednesday before Thanksgiving break!

Have a great day.  I'll be checking in from time to time to see how things are going, but I'll miss seeing my 5B babies again.  Be good, make me proud!

It's Been a Great Start to the Week!

I've been so impressed with the excitement and effort with our new technology projects!  You guys will become experts before your very own eyes!  Also, I am feeling quite proud of the hard workers with the editing page we did today, along with the Subject (Who or What, Who or What, Who or What) and Predicate (What's it doin'?) assignment!  Keep up the super responsibility, effort and respect!

With tomorrow being a 3 hour early out, we'll have another goofy schedule with library right before lunch. Some of you have been forgetting your library books, so this is a reminder for you!  Don't forget your book bins! And, I'll let you start checking out new books from the book order!  Yippee!

I'll keep it short tonight. Here's a challenge for you to prove you've checked the blog.  Come in right away and begin doing jumping jacks.  Don't count out loud or chat with anyone.  Just do as many as you can until I tell you to stop.  I'll have a little something for you if you can handle the challenge!

See you for a short, but productive day Wednesday!

Big Changes Coming in 5th Grade Land...

5B,

I've got HUGE news for you and your families coming soon.  I can't tell you the details yet, but you'll find out within the next week or so.  I'm excited and nervous for this big change.  There are all sorts of details I'd love to share with you, but because the teachers don't have everything completely figured out yet, we don't want to share anything.   But it will for sure make your jaws drop!!!  So stay tuned for upcoming news!!!!!!  Did I grab your attention????  Now, that's a good introduction, eh?!

Onto another topic...  I just got done seeing the high school's musical performance starring our very own 5B student, Trista!  What a great job!  I even cried because I was so proud of her!  So glad to see students doing what makes them happy!  Yeh!  Maybe if we sweet-talk her a little, she'll give us our own special mini performance :)  Or not....

Another MAJOR announcement to remind your parents about is MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14 (that's tomorrow!) is the fundraiser pick-up day!  A note will be coming home with you tomorrow after school, but I thought it would help to tell parents tonight.  It goes from 3 pm to 6 pm.  You'll need to have your pink sales sheets to give your items to your customers!  Remember to thank them so much for their help! We couldn't take field trips, have breadsticks, go to plays or a Big Blast without their help!  Be sure they get a huge thanks from you!

Last of all, we made a pinky swear last Friday that we would make time for Swear to Howdy on Monday. So, I'll know you checked the blog this weekend if you remind me in the morning with these words "Don't forget our pinky swear about Swear to Howdy."  We'll do attendance and get jobs done and get comfy on the floor.  Senorita Rachel and I are trying to find a different time to do our Spanish Skype lessons.

One more thing... Don't forget you're mentoring again this week.  We have an early out, so the Wednesday people will not get to see their mentees unless they go chat with their mentees' teacher and work out another day this week.  Sounds like everyone who chose to mentor had a great first visit!

See you soon,
Mrs. Sorenson

Great to Be Back!

Man, it seems crazy that tomorrow is already Friday!  It's good to be back after such crazy days of being away from you guys.  Isaiah is definitely on the mend!  He's up to his normal nonsense of temper tantrums, running around the house and putting strange things in the fridge!  I opened the refrigerator door after supper tonight and found the wheel to one of Isaiah's toy tractors in there?!!!!  What a weirdo!  Well, I guess he is my son, huh?!

Just wanted to remind you of a few things for Friday...
1) It's Veteran's  Day!!  Our assembly is at 9:30.  I always look forward to hearing from the local men and women who volunteer their time to share their personal stories with us.  Remember to have a question in mind so you don't read it from a sheet.
2)  Last day for Inquiry Projects!  They are turning out better than I could have even imagined!  You guys should go into advertising.  You are all making a difference.
3)  Crossword Puzzle Homework and Possible Quiz!  Make sure you continue this great responsibility by getting this work done and being prepared for your quiz.  It's been on the planner for over a week!

Of course, you should always be working on your November Book-It Goal.  I heard that 5C not only has everyone working on it, but one kid read about 2 hours last night!!!!  So, we definitely have sparked the competition between 5A and 5C!!  Yikes... I'm kinda nervous!  So, to prove you checked the blog, have your mom/dad/grandma/step mom/dad, or even your aunt Bertha (if you have one), write a note to me saying how much you've been reading AND recording on the November Book-It slip.  Show me the note in the morning.  This will be a great way to make sure we don't let the whole month go by without checking in with our class!  Let's keep the 5B Cadet Pride by chewing gum next month!!

See you in the morning!
~Peace Out, Mrs. Sorenson

Missing You Oodles and Oodles!

Hey, 5B,
I hope your first day of snow was a good one!  I'm sorry this week has been a messed up one.  Isaiah seems to be better today.  Either way, I'll be back tomorrow.  Hopefully, you left Mrs. Norby with a good impression of 5B and 5th graders.

I'm hoping you got to get some work time on your inquiry projects.  You had a great start yesterday, so I was thinking today should be quite productive.  I'll check in with you tomorrow to see if we need more time or if we can start presenting on Friday!  Yeah!

I'm thinking all of our snowflake making yesterday was the cause of this big snowy mess we had that created our late start today!!! So, no more Make a Flake for you guys!  Just Kidding...  In fact, that's what I want you to do to prove you checked the blog.  Go to Make a Flake and create a fabulous snowflake!  You have 3 ways to prove to me you did this:  1) You can print off your flake from home or school OR 2) You can email at ksorenson@howard-winn.k12.ia.us so I can see your genius snowflake-making!  OR 3) If you can't print it or email it, you could simply write down the # for me, so I can check it out in the Gallery myself.

Tomorrow SHOULD be a normal day, but, who knows!!  Hopefully, you got a chance to work on your grocery bags for Mrs. McCabe today, too!  I know she wants these by the end of the week, so keep
a-coloring!

Have a good night!  See you Thursday morning:)

Daylight Savings is My Friend!

Greetings, 5B!
Wasn't it nice to have an extra hour of sleep this weekend?  I feel like it was exactly what I needed!  Hopefully,  you'll come to school Monday refreshed and ready for a jammed-packed week of learning!  


You have quite a bit to be working on this week.  Here are some reminders and some events going on:
All Week Long:
Mentoring starts!  We'll take a quick tour in the morning so you know where to meet your Mentee for your first visit!  Yeah!
All Week Long: 
Inquiry Project:  Remember, you have 4 steps to complete with your Inquiry Groups.  You each have jogs to complete.  The slogans and mottos I heard on Friday were so creative and definitely memorable.  You guys really are making a difference in the lives of other people.  
Monday:
Extended date for Book Orders.  Kayden....remember, I'm doing this for you!  Make sure to remember your order:)
Tuesday:  
Family Homework Due!  You should have your home-chosen selection read, 2 worksheets and had a discussion about the 4 focus questions to wrap up Unit 1.  Thank you to families for helping out and modeling reading and thinking skills with your child.  Look for more Family Homework assignments in the future:)

Friday:  

Veterans Day Assembly for 5th Grade ONLY!  5th graders should feel honored that they have the opportunity to meet and visit with War Veterans from the Cresco area.  Mrs. Halverson will be chatting with you this week about what a Veteran is, what they stand for and brainstorming questions you may want to know from them.  This will be a special assembly in the Discovery Center, just for 5th grade students!  Isn't that awesome?  

Wowser, what a busy week, huh?!  To show you checked the blog, visit this link by clicking on it  Make a Medal for a Veteran .  Design a medal and print it off.  Bring it in on Monday morning with your name on it.  We will be making more and cutting them out to make a thank you card for our special guests on Friday.  I made one.  It's pretty fun and really easy!  

Thanks for helping out last week with the suggestions for Group Leaders.  Remember, they will be doing their jobs through Thursday... So, Alison, Colter, Nathan, Jarrett and Brooklyn, be ready to take charge Monday morning if it's needed:) 

See you soon!

Mrs. Sorenson

Time for a Change!

Yep, you guessed it at the end of the day! Remember, as soon as you come in Thursday morning, start clearing out and re-organizing your materials to move them to your new home. I tried to look at your 1st quarter reflections to put you near "helpful" friends. Of course, I couldn't make it work for everyone this time. Don't worry, we've got several months of school still:)

I also can't believe the change in the weather from yesterday to today! Yikes! This is a definite reminder about appropriate clothing for the time of year. You'll be outside for recess unless it gets below freezing, so if you are at all cold now, make sure you are bringing warmer coats,

gloves, hats, etc. Also, think about extra shoes with the wet and mushy ground from rainy and sleety weather.

Don't forget your family homework for reading class! Remind your parents to call, email, send me a message or something if they are

feeling confused at all. Thanks for those students who forgot your passwords at school, but called or emailed to get them! I think that is VERY RESPONSIBLE. Payton and Brenda, grab a yellow ticket in the morning! Glad to see you are doing your work!

You did a great job as Research Police today, but I would love to hear the sirens showing you've found your evidence! I'll be rewarding groups tomorrow for their enthusiasm and ability to make progress in reading class tomorrow! Great work, Detectives!

Lastly, I need your help with our transition times. 5B works so well, can be so respectful and caring, is so much fun to joke around with, but seems to have a tough time getting straight to planners at end of the day. Your proof for checking the blog will be to come up with 2 suggestions to help improve this. You could come up with a fun phrase to get everybody ready or you could suggest the class loses 5 minutes at recess for every reminder needed to get back on track. Whatever you think will help the class would be great! Write down your 2 suggestions and hand them to me in the morning. I'll share them with the class and we'll vote on one to try!

Sorry it got so long! But I missed you all afternoon....my little 5B Babies...

November Weather???? I don't think so!

Hey, 5B! I think we better feel pretty fortunate to be enjoying THIS kind of weather on the first day of November... I don't think we'll be this lucky too much longer though based on the weather reports I've seen:( Oh, well, I guess it's been a pretty great fall!

Great job dealing with such a goofy schedule around P.E. again today. You guys rock!

Don't forget about these events though...

1) Wednesday (tomorrow): 3-hour early out

2) Family Homework: If you have Internet, just use the LEAD 21 website on the side of hte blog! You should show your families the blue note and work on your 4 assignments throughout the week, due 1 week from today:) Let's see how responsible 5B can be!

3) Friday: Book Orders Due! Thanks for some of the online orders! The class will love the free books!

Other than that, I just thought I'd let you know how PROUD I am of 5B winning the October Book-It Challenge! It's great to see so many responsible students working on their stamina! Look for your Personal Pan Pizza coupons on your desks in the morning! If you forgot to bring in your calendar today, you can still bring it in tomorrow to get a Personal Pan Pizza! Yum... you can take your family out for dinner and save them a little cash!

I'll know you checked the blog if you check out the game I have added to the right side of the blog. It's called "Moving Puzzles". It took me a little while to figure it out at first! Write down what the finished puzzle is and show it to me in the morning when you come in!

Happy Weekend, 5B!

Boy, I have to say that this 3 day weekend feels pretty good! I think we've all been working our hineys off, so a day off of school is nice little treat, don't you think?! But don't get too carried away, this next week is a 5 day week filled with deep thinking, quizzes and homework assignments! Yippee! For now, enjoy your freedom and relaxation!

Also, I wanted to thank 5B and their parents for great conferences last week. I really enjoy chatting with families about how things are going. I know it takes extra time to schedule in the conferences. I appreciate the effort of both the parents AND the 5B students who came along to their conferences! I have few to reschedule this week, but thanks to ALL of my 5B families for their time, questions and input!

Mr. Blankenship wrote me a nice thank you for being able to spend his time with 5th grade this week. He said it was a lot of fun and will never forget it! I told him he was always welcome to come back to visit us!

For this week, I just wanted to give you a heads up about a few things...

1) Monday: Senorita Rachel is ready to Skype with us right away in the morning - she has some Halloween words for us to learn!

2) Tuesday: Book-It slips are due for the month of October! Not only will you earn YOURSELF a free personal pizza from Pizza Hut, you could also help 5B win the competition for eating first for the WHOLE MONTH of NOVEMBER! Gotta Keep Reading...ooooo, ooooo.

3) Wednesday: 3-hour early out!

4) Friday: Book Orders are due! Remember, if your family wants to order ONLINE, they just need to visit the www.scholastic.com website and click on "Parent Online Ordering". The code you need is on that little white label on your book order pages up in the left-hand corner! If your family chooses to order online, the class gets a free book!

Well, this is a pretty long post, so I'd better let you get going! Enjoy the rest of your weekend. Monday is Halloween!!!! So, I'll know you checked the blog if you can come up with or find a Halloween joke to share with the class! The jokes the get the best votes, get a Halloween prize!

Peace Out,

Mrs. Sorenson

It's Been a Fast Week!

Wow,

It seems crazy that we only have 1 more day this week! I'm guessing Mr. Blankenship feels like he has learned a lot from our 5th graders! Thanks for making his time with us a great experience! You always seem to surprise me more and more each day with how respectful and responsible you are...not too mention your fun personalities!

Let's show Mr. Blankenship how to end the week with style tomorrow! He'll be leading both reading and writing classes on Thursday, so keep up the great respect and enthusiasm. We want him to think 5th grade is the BEST grade ever, so really "bring it on" Thursday with participation and deep thinking.

We'll have a goofy schedule tomorrow because of the 1-hour early out. I know it will make you very sad that our music class is shorter than normal! But I'm sure you'll get over it:} To prove you checked the blog, come in Thursday morning, and write a "goodbye message" to Mr. Blankenship on the white board. It could be "thanks, good luck, take care, peace out, don't forget us, etc" and write your name by it! That will be a nice way to let Mr. Blankenship know we appreciate him visiting our classroom!

Conference Week Coming Up...

Hey, 5B,

Make sure to remind your families about the 1-hour early out on Monday and Thursday this week. Also, I'm sure you won't forget that we have NO SCHOOL on Friday as well. The final reminder is to make sure you and your family remember your conference day/night and time on either Monday, Tuesday or Thursday. It is expected to see YOU at the conference, too:) Don't worry... every student who has ever come to a 5B conference has survived it.......so far.... Heehaha!

I know many of you have your social studies project and paragraph to bring in on Monday. You'll need to bring it straight to Mrs. Halverson's room. After dropping it off with her, you'll need to head back outside for morning recess. I'm excited to see the rest of these projects. They look so great! I can tell a lot of work has gone into them. Super effort!

Ok.. now... what you've really been wanting to know is the name of our visitor for the week. So here are your clues..

1) His first name starts with an R and rhymes with lion.

2) His last name can be broken into 3 parts:

Clue for the 1st part: Fill in the ________.

Clue for the 2nd part: The opposite of out.

Clue for the 3rd part: What a large boat could be called.

Can you figure it out? This will be your proof for checking the blog. Write down the first and last name and show it to me (and our guest for the week...he'll be welcoming you in the room with me on Monday morning!)

Have a great rest of your weekend. See you in the morning:)

~Mrs. Sorenson

2nd Quarter Proves to Be Just as Great as the 1st...

The days just seem to go by so quickly, 5B. I'm afraid if I don't stop and think about our days together, it will be Christmas break before we know it! Yikes!

I forgot to share the "Nuttin' But Cadet Pride" cards with you at the end of the day today. I'm so proud of 5B for noticing the great behaviors from their classmates! That's so mature of you to see the good in others without taking any credit for yourself! That's why you my little angels (ding! ahhhhhh)

Don't forget to wear red or purple tomorrow AND if you can, we would love to show how much you care about people outside of our classroom by bringing in 1 canned item or 1 boxed item to donate.

Tomorrow also is REPORT CARD DAY! Yippee! I bet you just can't wait to see them! They will be sitting at your table/desk tomorrow as you come in on Thursday. So go ahead and look through all the pages, but I'll chat with you about it, too after attendance and pledge!

Have a great night! See you jueves (what Spanish word is this?)!

~Mrs. Sorenson

Pretty Tough Monday, Huh, 5B?!

Well, hopefully you were able to get some rest and relaxation this afternoon since your morning was so exhausting.....NOT! Ok, so we gave you a day to celebrate your super effort put you put into the first quarter of 5th grade. Now, it's back to work! Tomorrow will be a regular day with band lessons, P.E., switching classes, group band and of course, lots of thinking!

Reminders for Tuesday...

1) You have a Perspective Assignment for writing class due (EVERYONE should have this done since it was due Monday!!!!)

2) Math page should be done since IT was also due Monday.

3) Wear green and "Sock it to Responsibility" by wearing crazy/goofy socks. (Even un-matching ones works!)

I'll know you checked the blog if you check out the the link on the side of the blog that is titled, "You Think Life is Tough?" It is right below the picture of the Blobs for Literacy photo. Watch the video and tell me ONE word that it makes you feel after watching it. It made me want to cry:( Write that ONE word on the white board (with your name next to it) when you come in Tuesday morning. We'll watch it again as a class to see everyone's reactions.

Thanks for a great day, 5B! Let's have another FANTABULOUS quarter!

~Mrs. Sorenson

One Quarter Down.... Can You Believe It?

5B,

It just boggles my mind that we have finished 1 full quarter of school already! I guess time does fly when you're having fun!

This week has only one day with a few goofy twists to it, but nothing too crazy. Check out the reminders below for Monday!

Monday: 3-hour early out, PTO meeting @ 6:30 tonight (if you get a parent to come, I'll put your name in a drawing for a treat!) Kim won last time, if she can get her mom to come again, she's in the drawing again! "Hats off to Respect" and wear yellow! Let's see what you wear tomorrow that proves you are all about RESPECT! I've got a few extra hats if you would like to borrow one, but that means I get to choose which one you wear. Muuusaaaaahhh!

I have a little surprise for you when you get to school Monday! But since we have the 3 hour early out, we have to start our day earlier than normal. We need to be ready at 8:40 for our first switch of classes ! That means we need to get in, get our jobs done quickly and see what the schedule is for the short day. I'll know you checked the blog if you act all goofy and say "I can't take it anymore, what's the surprise you're talking about?!"

5th GRADE COMES IN FIRST PLACE!!!!!

What a DAY!!! You really are TOP DOGS! Even though we kind of felt like 5th grade was in the lead, the secret stashes that the other grades were hiding gave us something to worry about, didn't it?! Well done, 5B and the rest of 5th grade! I know that you earned every one of those blue tickets. The teachers always make you work for it, so CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN! I'll get the pictures I took from the announcement this morning and the extra recess and dance posted soon. (Not tonight though)

I'll have to let you know when the photo will be taken for the paper! Maybe we can all dress up as fancy as Luis did for his school pictures! Wouldn't that be impressive? Anyone have a tuxedo? Evening gown?

Remember to bring your ChipShoppe Fundraiser packets in tomorrow (Thursday). Don't forget o mark your prize, too. I can't

wait to see how many people will be in the Tug-o-War activity! Get ready to eat PUDDING 5B sellers! (I hope:})

Some of you had homework to finish the LEAD 21 website and post a comment. Remember the website is www.wglead21.com . If you can't get it done tonight, stop by the Discovery Center when you get to school in the morning.

Way to go, 5B! We'll be starting individual yellow tickets on Monday. I'll know you checked the blog if you say to me, "Tell me more about those yellow tickets" as you walk in the door Thursday morning.

Marvelous Monday!

Wow, 5B, you really had another awesome day! What else should expect, right? The day just flew by sooo quickly!! Good thing Kirsten toldus it was time go today, otherwise we still might be in our classroom learning! I guess it is true, time flies when you're having fun!

Since we ended our day so abruptly, I thought I'd list below what your possible homework was for each class:

Spelling: study words

Reading: Work on Stamina (Read for Book-It - let's show 5A and 5C who will be in the lunch line first!!!)

Writing: Optional to Work on Writing Piece

Math: Math Box Page

Science/Social St: Study Vocab Words, Finish Activity if you worked with Mrs. Halverson

Homeroom: Blog, Fundraiser packet due Thursday, Book-IT, Respect Pledge (3 left:), 3-hour early out this Wednesday, Green Conference Notes from parents

Check out the What Do You See? or Optical Illusions on the right side of the blog if you liked seeing things from different perspectives today in writing class.

I'll know you checked the blog if you look at the picture in this posting and think of a Funny Title or Speech Bubble for what goes with it... Write it on a scratch piece of paper (with your name on it) and hand it to me when you come in Tuesday morning!

See you soon! Thanks again for a great day!

Another FANTASTIC DAY, 5B!

I just can't get over what amazing students we have in 5B! I think we have definitely squashed that chatty bug that was in the year a few weeks ago! Yeehaw, baby!

Please remember these ideas for your or your families for tomorrow....

1) If you are interested in learning more about being a Mentor, come into the Discovery Center at about 8:20ish Friday morning. If you could just stop into the room quickly and put in your FROG, that would be helpful so I know you are here!

2) Water bottle for Fall Fitness Day

3) Practice dance moves (Ask your parents if they remember the moves on the "Evolution of Dance" video on the blog. :} )

4) Breadsticks and reading with 1 family member at 2:45 (Parents stop in at office, then come down to our room)

5) Able to leave with family member if you choose at end of day:}

Since Jordan and Jon will not be with us for the part or all of the day, we'll have to take some good pictures. We will miss them on such a fun day of activities! Also, we'll need to get all of their blue tickets found so we can hand in EVERY blue ticket we have earned!

See you all Friday! Wow, this week just flew by!

3,050 Blue Tickets!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

5B, I sure hope you shared our Blue Ticket Total today with your families! That is a record for the blue tickets for any grade over the past 2 years!! That's a MAJOR accomplishment! Let's see what we end up with, shall we?!

I'll keep it short since it's a little later tonight. Please remind your families about 2 things:

1) Fill out and return the green conference note

2) Breadsticks and Reading on Friday!

I'd love to see a few more Jib Jabs from people if you're trying out any new cards. I've got a lot more websites to share with you that I think you'll enjoy over the next few months! I love to see your enthusiasm and excitement to share the things you do!

I'll know if you checked the blog if you raise your hand after the pledge and ask me this question, "What's the fitness thing for Friday?" Even if someone else has asked first, please raise your hand and ask it for yourself! I'll tell the class after all the 5B Blog checkers ask me!

Thanks for an AWESOME day! Let's see if we can top it tomorrow...you, Top Dogs!

Anybody Want a Dog????

Hey, 5B, Top Dogs!!!

Remember the story I was brainstorming and ready to draft today in writing class about Ebony in the kitchen and diarrhea??? Well, I have another story to add to my brainstorms after today! Apparently, my dogs like Doritos! I had a brand new, full bag of Doritos way up high on top of a cupboard and SOMEHOW the little stinkers (guessing Ebony) got it down and then they both devoured the chips and shredded the bag into tiny little pieces across the entire house!! GRRRR...

This morning, you guys seemed pretty mellow, but I can't complain about great Cadet Prride! Don't forget to keep that "sonrisa" (remember what it means from Senorita Rachel today?) on your face, too! I think the JibJab cards with your classmates brought a "sonrisa" to all of your faces today - with all those moves and singing! Who knew how talented our class was!! Wow! Remember, I'll share with the class any that you make. I already have one from Sam!

I'll know you checked the blog if you do the following steps for me....

(you can tell other people about it to as they are coming in).

1) AS SOON AS YOU COME IN, find your Word Study notebook from the pile.

2) Check your list of words so they are numbered 1., 2., 3., etc.

3) Make sure your NAME and DATE (Sept. 30) are at the top of the page.

4) Bring it to Mrs. Wilson's 5B Hand In trays.

5) Then be ready for Attendance!

**If you pass the message on so that the WHOLE class knows without me having to tell them, I'll have a breakfast snack for EVERYONE after returning from dropping off the notebook in Mrs. Wilson's room:) I hope the class gets the message because I might not be able to move if I have to eat all of the snacks on my own!! I may not fit through the door!! Help me, please!

Excited for a NORMAL Week!!

Hey, there my little estudiantes (that's Spanish for students, but I'm sure Luis knew that, right!?)

I hope you had a fun homecoming and weekend. I saw quite a few of you while I walked in the parade and then I even saw more of you after the parade back at the school. What a busy but fun day it was last Friday!

Although it was exciting to have so much going on last week, I have to be honest that I'm even MORE EXCITED to get back to a normal routine for us. I feel like I barely saw you guys at all!! My babies.... tear drop, tear drop :(

So, get some rest for a learning-packed week, and then we'll end it with some reading and BREADSTICKS, right!? Don't forget to remind your families that moms, dads, grandpas, grandmas, aunts, uncles, etc. are welcome to come read and join you for breadsticks. Please remember though that we will only be inviting ONE guest per student for this activity. We want to make sure our classroom does not explode! :)

I'll know you checked the blog if you say "Hola, Senora Sorenson" to me as you come in Monday morning. Remember, we will be using Skype again with Senorita Rachel right away after attendance/pledge. She will be giving more Spanish names to some lucky chicos (boys) and chicas (girls)! She said she was excited to chat with 5B again!

Hasta manana (until tomorrow!)

Senora Sorenson

Sorry....it's a long one tonight!!

Hey, there my 5B Angels... (ding),

What a great turn out for "work-out" day. With the wacky schedule, first being an early out, then being a late start, you guys were great just getting right there with it! Thanks for making things go so smoothly.

I just found out some news about Blue Tickets.... apparently the competition date has been extended to NEXT Friday...not this Friday. This pretty good news... it gives us more time to add to our "secret stash"! So, tomorrow, when you come in, let's see what our count is. We can send them up Thursday. Then let's do EVERYTHING we can to add as many Blue Tickets to our bucket as we possibly can. I love how much participation we've been having with homecoming week! Think about every part of our day, how we could add more tickets... morning routine, getting ready for classes, quiet lines, participating as much as possible in class, planners at the end of day, etc... So, let's see if we can even WOW ourselves more than we thought possible!

Remember, Thursday is Super Hero or Pink Out Day. I'm putting together a pretty weird outfit for tomorrow. Do what you can to have fun with either of the dress up ideas. Also, you can TOTALLY make up a Super Hero... I think I might be Nerd Girl! Use anything you have around the house to create an outfit for us to be entertained with! The only requirements would be that you don't wear what the dude in the picture is wearing????

Make sure to talk to your families about next Friday's, Book-It Kick Off! I heard 21 "yes" answers to liking breadsticks, so hopefully your family can come enjoy some reading and snacks with you! Also, wouldn't be AWESOME if on that Friday afternoon, Mr. Wiley announced which grade wins the Blue Ticket Competition?? I think parents would be mighty impressed to see their kids winning a Cadet Pride Competition! Let's DO IT!

I'll know you checked the blog tonight if you visit the link down low on the right side of the blog (it's down below my Playlist of songs) that is called "What's Wrong with this Photo"? It will really test your detailed observations! I haven't had many students that can find what's wrong. The hint is to focus in CLOSELY, staring into the computer screen. Let me know what you think. I've tried getting it at school, but it's blocked like some other games and things, so try at home if you can. Can't wait to see if ANYONE can figure it out... maybe I'll have a reward set aside IF anyone can find it... Like the challenge??

Lookin' Good in Jammies Today!

5B,

I was so impressed to see so many of you participating in PJ day today AND yesterday's sports day! Way to really show your Cadet Pride! I can't wait to see your work-out clothes for Wednesday. With our busy end to the day, we didn't get a chance to remind everyone of tomorrow's 3-hour early out! So, don't plan on spending the whole day at school!!!! Well, I guess you can, but you'll have to do teacher work! Fun, fun!

You guys have put forth WONDERFUL effort into last week's and this week's MISIC tests!

Bravo to everyone! Now that they are through, we canmove onto a somewhat regular routine....well, maybe not this week with our 3-hour early out Wed., a fundraiser assembly Thursday and another assembly for homecoming Friday (not to mention the 2-hour early out and extra specials that day!!) Ok, so, I guess NEXT week will be "back to a regular routine"!

I'll know you checked the blog tonight if you come in on Wednesday morning and start doing your OWN aerobics exercises! Don't chat with anyone else at all. Just do a work-out on your own UNTIL I come to you with something that will quench your thirst! Keep up the great work and see you Wednesday for a short day!

Crazy Week Ahead!!!

Hey, 5B!

I had such a great weekend! It was so busy with visiting family and cheering on the Cadets on Friday in Decorah. Then I spent a day my husband and Isaiah at an outdoor fun park with pumpkins, slides, petting zoo, bouncer, corn maze and much more! It was a blast! I even saw Grace when I was there. If your family is looking for a fun fall thing to do together, I was recommend this place. Let me know if you want to know more! Sunday was busy at school and enjoying the fall weather outside! I also ran into Kirsten's mom and found out poor Kirsten's foot has a break in it :( She'll be in a wheelchair and/or crutches for a few weeks. We'll have to show her our Cadet Pride by caring for her while she's

recovering and helping her get around.

Whether your weekend was a busy one like mine or mellow and relaxing, you'll want to get ready for a VERY busy week at school! Here's what you have to look forward to this homecoming week!

Monday - MISIC Language Test right away at 8:45, Dress up in sports/teams/jerseys, special lesson with Mr. Wiley at end of the day, Band Meeting in evening for those going out for band

Tuesday - MISIC Math Test, P.E, Dress up in pajamas

Wednesday - 3-hour early out, Library, Dress Up in Workout Clothes

Thursday - Chip Shoppe Fundraiser Kick Off Assembly at 10:00, Music, Dress as Super Hero

Friday - Last Day of Blue Ticket Competition, 2-hour early out, Homecoming Assembly at 10:00, Guidance class, Art class, Dress up in Cadet clothes

I'll know you checked the blog this weekend, if you visit the Spanish to English translation link on the right side of the blog. Type in these Spanish words EXACTLY as I have it below. Write down the English translation, and show it to me as you come in Monday morning! I'm guessing Luis may not need the translation helper!

conseguir una buena noche de sueno

Terrific Tuesday!

Great day again, 5B!

I'll keep it short tonight. Just wanted you to think about upcoming events:

This Week...

Wednesday - Bus Evac Drills right away in morning and 3-hour early out

Thursday - First MISIC tests (Reading)

Next Week...

Homecoming! Dress Up Days all WEEK (note coming home this Thursday)

Monday - Another MISIC (Language)

Tuesday - Last MISIC (Math)

Wednesday - Another 3-hour early out

Thursday - ChipShoppe Fundraiser Kick-off

Friday - Pep Rally, Early Out, Homecoming Parade, Football Game

Also, this is the END of the Blue Ticket Competition!!! Let's see if 5th grade will be the new celebrities of Cresco area!!!

I'll know you checked the blog if you check out the Sand Art game under Stumble Upon Favorites on the right side of the blog, kind of a ways down. Let me know if you like it! See you for a short but productive day tomorrow!!

Weekend Flew By... I'll Keep It Short!

It's getting later on Sunday, so I thought I'd better get a post out quickly. The weekend was so busy that I can't believe it's already Sunday night! I hope you had good weekends. I saw many of you at the Harvest Fest parade on Saturday. To prove you checked the blog, you can bring THREE (3) pieces of candy to snack on during the day on Monday. The candy can NOT be one of the following though: gum, jawbreaker or anything peanut butter, of course!

Here are a few pictures of the Norman Borlaug Trip on Friday. It was a great day! Thanks for being such great models of Cadet Pride. I had several compliments from Mrs. Sovereign as well about the great behavior and knowledge! Way to go, 5B Top Dogs!!!!

Enjoy the photos!

We're Kinda on a Roller Coaster....

Well 5B,

We're kinda having some ups and downs this week and last.

The Ups... :) (Yeah)

(This is what I see)

*Students raising hands to share

*Students are lining up quickly and quietly

*Class has excitement and enthusiasm to learn

*Class is getting homework done

*Students participate in group discussions

*Class saved lives using www.freerice.com

The Downs... :( (Boo)

(Well, this is what you told me today as you were leaving)

*Class is talking more than they should

*Class should chat less during morning attendance and planner time

*Individuals should stop messing around

*Individuals should get materials ready quicker for switching classes

*Table groups should stop talking so much and fooling around

*Class should settle down quicker after goofy stuff

*Class should use time better when working alone

So.... we have a great list of respectful behaviors....and unfortunately some DISrespectful. And it's not just me who is noticing it. So, to prove you checked the blog, please write down the name of 2 students you think have been great role models, even during the last few weeks of roller coasters. Have them on a piece of paper to hand to me. I'll be taking it from you on Thursday, so don't put it in your planner please.

5B, let's continue to have fun, learn and be in control! I've seen it done OODLES and OODLES of times by you! I'm in the bragging mood... let me brag about YOU and our 5B Family!

Flag Photo Was AWESOME!!!!

5B Top Dogs (ruff, ruff, ruff, ruff, ruff!) We'll have to do that one tomorrow! Forgot about it!

I am SOOOOOOOOO impressed with everyone remembering their shirt for today's photo! I saw a couple right after you were done, and you guys did such a great job! I'm supposed to get them in an email today. If I get them before too late, I will add them to the blog for you to share them with your parents. Also, Mrs. Sovereign was so proud of our idea, she is going to send the picture to the newspaper. So, be watching in the Times Plain Dealer in the next week or so for your part in the flag!

Reminder for tomorrow...

Pictures at 10 a.m., P.E. at 10:55 a.m., so don't worry, you'll look gorgeous without any sweat running down your foreheads!

I missed saying goodbye to you today, so to prove you checked the blog, click on the link on the right side of the blog. It will teach you a simple song that you will sing to me in the morning and teach the class. If many people have checked the blog, you can all sing it together. If you are the only one, good luck on your solo!! Can't wait to hear you rock out with this one, baby!

(watch a few times if you need to, but I think you'll get it after the first time through)

Get some rest for picture day!!

Mrs. Sorenson

1800 Blue Tickets and Still Counting!!!!!

5B,

I sure hope you had a good weekend. I know people had all sorts of things going on from staying over at a friend's house to attending weddings to tackle football games here in Cresco! I'm glad you have so many fun things happening for you in and out of the classroom!

I just wanted to remind you to share with your families about how many blue tickets 5th grade has!!! Mrs. McCabe and Mr. Sickles are blown away....as well as Mrs. Halverson, Mrs. Wilson and me!! Let's keep it up and swat away any chatty bug that sneaks its way into our classroom. OK? If you have your assigned colored shirt for Monday, I'll be proud to

hand you a blue ticket!

I have quite a few reminders for you for this week. A lot to remember for this week....

Monday: Wear assigned colored shirt for Sept. 11 flag photo (red, white or blue)

Tuesday: School Picture Day! (bring your order envelopes if you are ordering pictures)

Wednesday: Homecoming t-shirt order forms due if getting a t-shirt

Thursday: Nothing out of the ordinary:}

Friday: Field trip to Borlaug Farm (tennis shoes, layered clothes, own lunch, water bottle)

To prepare your brain for another week of school, try out the website on the left side, pretty far down called "Figuring Things Out Game". Read the directions to see what to do. I've gotten to Level 18, and now I am COMPLETELY stuck! I'd love to challenge someone to do better than Level 18!! We'll look at it at school on Monday morning, too. This will be your proof for checking the blog. Write down what level you get through, and tell me as you come in the classroom.

See you soon!

Mrs. Sorenson