Clarification on Homework Policy

It has come to my attention that I have not completely outlined my homework policy.  I have chosen my homework policy based on the suggestions of many outstanding veteran teachers and hope this policy is fair and makes sense to everyone.  And as always, if you ever have any questions about anything, feel free to call or email me!

Homework (includes work that is sent home at the end of the day that needs to be completed and returned the following day)

• This work will be graded for completion only as it is considered a responsibility on the part of the student to get it completed.  At the end of the nine weeks, homework turned in will be factored into the students' citizenship grade.

Classwork (includes work that is introduced, completed and turned in during class time)

• This work will be graded for accuracy and the grade will be recorded as such in Skyward.  Students who miss several points on any one assignment will have an opportunity to "make up" those missed points if they choose during recess.  Points that are made up after the fact will count as 1/2 the original score.  For instance, if a student misses 4 and chooses to retry those 4 questions and answers them all correctly the second time, they will earn 2 additional points on that assignment.  Any classwork that is not finished will also need to be completed during recess.  The student will not need to stay in during the entire recess.  They will only stay in as long as they need to complete work then they will be dismissed to go outside.  

Again, if you have any questions whatsoever, please do not hesitate to let me know!  

School Picture Day!

DON'T FORGET!!  Tomorrow is SCHOOL PICTURE DAY!  

Homework Policy

Now that we're getting into the swing of things, I thought it would be a good idea to discuss my homework policy.

Homework will be given weekly.  The exact days and the amount of homework will vary based on the curriculum covered that week.  However, several homework items will remain the same each week.

Weekly Reading and Math Logs

• Students are to read at least 15 minutes each night.
• Students are to practice their math facts at least 5 minutes per night.
• Students may choose to "take off" one night per week.
• Students are to return the completed and signed reading log each Friday.
• Students will receive a new log for the following week.
• Copies of the weekly reading and math log may be found under the tab "Useful Classroom Forms".

Spelling Lists and Spelling Tic-Tac-Toe

• Practice your spelling words by choosing activities on the Spelling Tic-Tac-Toe board.  
• You must practice activities that create a Tic-Tac-Toe (three in a row: vertically, horizontally or diagonally).
• Parents must initial after each spot after the activity has been completed.
• Completed Spelling Tic-Tac-Toe boards are due the following Thursday.

Other homework may be sent home throughout the week depending on the progress we make during the day.    Homework that is sent home will be checked for completion whereas work completed independently in class will be taken for a grade.

If you have any questions about the homework policy, please do not hesitate to contact me!

Off to a GREAT Start!

Well, the first day of 3rd grade is in the books and what a great first day it was!  The students were very respectful and listened intently as we learned all about how this school year was going to go.

In the morning, we created some rules as a group and after we decided on the rules, we each signed off on them promising that we would follow each and every one.  We also decided that if someone breaks a rule, they will lose some Barnes Bucks and possibly have a note sent home.  Then we worked on our cursive handwriting - a skill we will continue to work on all week.  For spelling tests, the students will be required to write in cursive, so it's good to get the practice in now!

Today's special was P.E. and Mrs. Gravelle said they all did so wonderful and she could tell they were really trying hard to listen to instructions and do as they're asked.  After P.E. was lunch, where we had no problems whatsoever!  Such great news to a teacher's ears!

In the afternoon, I started to read The BFG.  Several of the students have already read the book and they told me they really liked it!  I hope the same is true for the students who haven't yet heard of it!

In math, we started to learn about numeration and the standard, expanded and word forms of numbers in the hundreds.  Tomorrow, we will refresh our memories on the hundreds and possibly start looking at numbers in the thousands.

After math it was off to recess where the students were so excited to be playing on the "big" playground!  Up until this year, they shared a playground with K-2 and now they finally go to play on the 3-5 playground!  They all had so much fun...except for the extreme heat!!

In social studies, we began learning about maps and the compass rose.  The students did an awesome job as figuring out directions.  I was very proud!

Tomorrow should be another great day!!  I can't wait to get this school year moving so we can start learning everything there is to know in 3rd grade!!

Back To School Night

Thank you to all who came out to Back to School Night!  It was so wonderful to meet you all and for me to have an opportunity to let you know a little more about myself!  I am so excited to start the new year and as I heard from several of your children, they seem eager to begin 3rd grade as well!!

Just a couple reminders:

• If you would like to be a volunteer, please fill out the volunteer form that was handed out tonight.  Please also make sure that you have a current background check form on file with the office.  I love having volunteers in the room, so don't be shy!
• If you have not yet, please take a moment to fill out the parent/student information form that was handed out this evening.  This will help me stay in contact with you throughout the year!
• Finally, don't for get to send me an email - just something general with your name so I can make sure I have the correct spelling of your email address.

If you have any other questions, please don't ever hesitate to contact me!  

Email: barnesa@centergrove.k12.in.us

Phone: (317) 881-5653, ext. 6215

I am looking forward to a super successful year!!

Welcome!

Welcome to Third Grade!

I cannot wait to begin the school year!  I am looking forward to a successful year full of learning and fun!

Be sure to check back often for the most up-to-date information and pictures!