Weekly Homework for Nov. 28-Dec. 2

Dear 5^th Graders and Families,

We hope everyone had a fun and relaxing Thanksgiving break. We have 3 weeks before the winter break and we really want to maximize this learning time. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather as we will be having outdoor recess whenever possible. We hope to see you at Skate City this Thursday. Be on the lookout for more information about Barnes and Noble Night and the Holiday Shop coming to Pine Ridge next week!

All homework is due on Friday so be sure to budget your time accordingly. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Have a great week! J

Vocabulary:  On the back of this page are words that come from the other subjects we are currently studying. You need to know the definition, the part of speech, and how to use it correctly in a sentence. You will have a vocabulary test on all 10 words on Friday. The format of the test will vary each week.

Word Work/Spelling: This week we will focus on suffixes and antonyms in Unit 8. Please read the Family Letter and complete the Take-Home Task together to familiarize yourself with the concepts. We will also discuss the spelling rules for adding the suffixes –er,  –ly, and -able to base words. Be sure to look for these words in your reading and writing this week.

Reading:  Read a novel of your choice each night for 20 minutes to become a better reader. In class we will work on making connections (text-text; text-self; text-world) in our Daybook text. We will also work on novels and leveled readers to improve comprehension skills.

Social Studies: Complete the weekly geography worksheet, questions 51-55. Use the provided maps and other resources such as an atlas, globe, or internet websites. Be sure to answer ALL parts of each question!

Writing:  Please write a 5 paragraph essay on loose leaf paper describing your family’s winter holiday traditions. This is something we want you to discuss with your family.  Your teacher and classmates want to know what you celebrate, how you celebrate, and why you celebrate. This is a great way to learn about the diverse cultural traditions and religious beliefs of our community.

Use a circle map, bubble map, tree map, or flow map for prewriting before you begin your draft. Include a colorful illustration with your essay.

Your essay will be graded according to the following scoring guide:

·         Engaging lead

·         Clear purpose statement; content is focused and detailed

·         Writing is organized into 5 paragraphs: introduction, 3 descriptive body paragraphs, & a conclusion

·         Sensory images, power verbs, transition words, and other descriptive language is demonstrated

·         Distinctive voice/tone

·         Correctness: spelling, grammar, capitalization, punctuation

·         Neatness

·         Completeness: Thinking map, 5 paragraph essay, and colorful illustration

·         Be ready to share with the class!