Parents and students,

   We are now down to the last nine weeks and students are working diligently.  We have been practicing on maintaining focus and concentration in all tasks assigned. 

    In reading, we have been concentrating on non-fiction, using science and social studies texts to teach reading skills.  In science we are studying magnets and electricity and nutrition.  In social studies, we will be looking at changes in North Carolina, particularly within the last 150 years.  We have started Survivor, which is a review of the entire math and reading curriculum.  We divide into tribes (teams) and compete for points all morning from 8:45-11:00.  The winning tribe carries tiki torches (with fake fire), wear leis and  a funny hat and their choice of a Little Debbie cake for dessert at lunch.  If you have not, please send one box of Little Debbie cakes or something similar for the students to share during this time.   We will continue Survivor until May 18th.

    Thank you for all your support and help with your student.  We certainly cannot be successful without you!  Remember, you child needs to do their homework in a quiet, well-lighted area with as few distractions as possible. 

Read, Read, Read.  Please encourage your student to read this summer.  Patrick Beaver Public Library has a wonderful summer reading program.  Southwest has a special notebook students can sign each time they visit the library.  We will give prizes at the beginning of the school year for students with the most visits.  

Also, please,please,please study your multiplication tables through the 12's.  Your fluency with times tables are crucial to success in fourth grade.