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Saturday, December 18, 2010

Happy Holidays!

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Happy Holidays!

Wishing you all the very best during this festive season!

Take some time to rest, play and reflect on all the blessings you've had in the last year.

Remember to keep up with your reading - begin new books and catch up on the ones you've been meaning to read.

See you on Monday, January 3, 2011.

Wishing you much happiness and health in the New Year!

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

One More Day of In-Line Skating

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Tomorrow will be a very busy day.

It is...Wear Your Pyjamas to School Day, Eat Your Lunch Backwards Day, the last day of in-line skating, a school assembly in the morning and the last day before Winter Break.

Today was the second day of printmaking. You learned how to create lines and shapes with your hands. You also learned the techniques on how to generate a Monoprint. Please share with your parents, your successes and challenges.

Next year we will continue with printmaking to explore and design art from Tunisia.

A reminder that school begins in the new year on Monday, January 3, 2011.

Have a fantastic night.

Ms. Toy

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Alien In-Line Started Today!

Hello Grade 3's and Parents,

Today was our first day of Alien In-Line Skating. Students learned about skating strides, stopping and falling. Students, please share with your parents your favourite part of your first day in-line skating.

This morning we were surprised with the announcement that 3 of the Dr. Seussical the Musical cast would be visiting our school after recess. Each class prepared a question that their Student Voice Representative asked the cast. It was very exciting to hear their responses and to get to learn more about an actor's life.

On Thursday we will be having our next Spirit Day! Students have the option of wearing their pajamas to school for the day. It is also Backwards Lunch day where students will get to eat their dessert first!

If you would like to renew your library books or return the ones you are no longer reading, please return them tomorrow.

There is no Literacy MAP homework tonight, but please complete your daily home reading.

Have a wonderful night. See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Monday, December 13, 2010

Artisan Fair Tonight!

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

I look forward to seeing all of you at the Artisan Fair tonight - 6 pm to 8 pm at the school.

Please remember to bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Food Bank.

No homework is assigned.

See you tonight!

Ms. Toy

Friday, December 10, 2010

Stay Warm!

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Just a few reminders.

Monday, December 13, 2010 - Artisan Fair*, 6 pm - 8 pm in the Grand Hall & Gymnasium. All items will be between $1 to $10 - payment is cash or cheque only. I look forward to seeing you all there!

*Please bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Food Bank.

Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday (Dec.14 - 16) - Alien In-Line Skating. Please remember to bring your bicycle helmets and protective gear from home. Make sure your name is clearly marked on your items.

Thursday, December 16, 2010 - Fun Lunch (Eat your Lunch Backwards) & Wear your PJ's to School Day. 


Thursday, December 16, 2010 - Last Day of Classes before Winter Break.

Monday, January 3, 2010 - First Day of Classes returning from Winter Break.

Stay Warm!

Ms. Toy

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Agenda for Thursday, December 9, 2010

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Thank you to everyone who worked hard today to get our Artisan Fair craft items started and/or finished today. I appreciated the focus and enthusiasm you all had in preparing for this very special event.

Another reminder that the Artisan Fair will be on Monday, December 13, 2010 between 6 pm - 8 pm. Entry to this event is 2 canned food items per person. Please join us - everyone is welcome.

Dr. Seussical the Musical - Actors Visit
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, our actors visit scheduled for tomorrow must be postponed until the new year. Parents - we will keep you informed as dates are confirmed.

Literacy MAP
Spelling tests were completed today. There is no homework tonight.

See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Agenda for Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Thank you for showing great responsibility and respect today at Dr. Seussical the Musical. I was so proud of how you all were able to focus and enjoy the show. I hope you all had a great time today!

Literacy MAP - Spelling tests are scheduled for all groups. Please complete your homework tonight.

Artisan Fair Crafts - We will be breaking into our groups to make our crafts tomorrow afternoon.

See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Dr. Seussical the Musical Tomorrow!

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Dr. Seussical the Musical - Please review with your parents, the expectations for your behavior tomorrow. 

Every student needs to bring a lunch tomorrow and 2 snacks.

Lunch - students will eat their lunch at 10 am and will leave the school at approximately 10:30 am. If you are volunteering, please be at the school no later than 10:15 am.

Snacks - students need 2 snacks - one for the morning and one for the afternoon after we return from our field trip.

The duration of the field trip is 2.5 hours at the theatre.

Literacy MAP - study your new spelling word and complete homework. Spelling tests are scheduled for all groups for Thursday.

Artisan Fair Craft Making - If you are free this Thursday afternoon between 12:30 pm - 2 pm and are willing to help students start and complete their crafts, we welcome your support. Please contact me at natoy@cbe.ab.ca

See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Monday, December 6, 2010

Busy Week

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

As reviewed today in class, this week will be very busy.

We will be attending Dr. Seussical the Musical on Wednesday, December 8, 2010.

*All students must bring a lunch to school this day as we will be eating our lunches early and leaving the school before the regularly scheduled lunch hour. 


Alien In-Line Skating begins this Thursday, December 9, 2010 at our school.

Our class will not have our scheduled lessons until next week - Tuesday, December 14, 2010 (am), Wednesday, December 15, 2010 (am) and Thursday, December 16, 2010 (pm). All lessons are 50 minutes.

Artisan Fair - is scheduled for next Monday, December 13, 2010 from 6 pm - 8 pm.

Admission is 2 cans of non-perishable food per person to donate towards the Veterans' Food Bank. 

Any proceeds made during this event will be donated towards the Alberta Children's Hospital Cancer Centre & towards purchasing new library books for our school.

See the attached link for more information:
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B-MmdhqVj8CQZmIwYjc4ZGEtZThhNS00MmMzLWE1NDItZDg0YmEwMzNhYzlj&hl=en&authkey=CN-Bg_wO

*Students will be working with their teachers this Thursday, December 9 and Friday, December 10 to prepare crafts for this special event.

Thanks for reading today's agenda.

Ms. Toy

Friday, December 3, 2010

Dr. Seuss Next Week

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,  

Today, students met with Mrs. Unruh to discuss expectations and acceptable behaviours for our visit to the Martha Cohen Theatre for Dr. Seussical the Musical on Wednesday, December 8, 2010. Please review with your child the different expectations and acceptable behaviours discussed.  

In preparation for our visit to the theatre, students watched Horton Hears a Who this afternoon. They were introduced to the characters Horton, Sour Kangaroo, JoJo and the Mayor of Whoville. These characters will appear in the musical. Students, please share with your parents your favourite moment and character from the movie. Don't forget to include why they were your favourite! Next week, we will continue our exploration into the different characters of Dr. Seuss.  

Calling all blue permission forms that have yet to be returned for Dr. Seussical the Musical. If you do not return your form on Monday, December 6, 2010, you will not be participating in this exciting fieldtrip. Alien In-Line Skating begins next week. Mr. Spriggs is looking for parent volunteers for morning and afternoon support in the gym for in-line skating. If you are interested, please contact me at natoy@cbe.ab.ca  

We are still looking for building materials for our Science Unit. Materials can include: cardboard (kleenex boxes, cereal boxes, etc), clean plastic containers (yogourt, jello or fruit), paper towel rolls, string/yarn, popsicle sticks, new drinking straws, toothpicks or anything else you think would be useful to build structures.  

On Monday, we will be checking for your homereading. After you read, please take time to share the Big Idea (or Main Idea) of the chapter or story book you have read. Remember to include supporting details (evidence) for your idea.  

Have a wonderful weekend! Stay warm!

Ms. Toy

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

All permission forms for Dr. Seussical the Musical are due by Monday, December 6, 2010. If your child does not return his/her form by this date, they will not be permitted to attend.

Literacy MAP - Spelling tests tomorrow for all groups. Please complete homework as discussed in class.

Have a great night.

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Upcoming Events

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

The December Newsletter is available on-line on the Panorama School website. It contains important information about events happening in and around the school in the next month. Please visit http://schools.cbe.ab.ca/b397/ to view it.


Just a list of upcoming events in and around the school:

(1) Dr. Seussical the Musical - Wednesday, December 8, 2010. Please return permission forms ASAP.

(2) Dr. Seussical the Musical Cast Visit - Friday, December 10, 2010 (afternoon only)

(3) Artisan Fair - Monday, December 13, 2010, 6 pm - 8 pm. A non-perishable food donation is appreciated  for your entry. Any funds generated from our sales will go towards Alberta Children's Hospital Cancer Centre and to purchasing new books for our library.

(4) Spirit Day - Thursday, December 16, 2010. Students are invited to wear their pyjamas to school for the day. Participation is optional. Also, it's Backwards Lunch Day, where students are invited to eat their dessert first.

(5) Alien-In Line Skating - Thursday, December 9 - Thursday, December 16, 2010. Students will be learning to rollerblade in the gym. If your child already has a helmet, knee/wrist/elbow pads - they can bring them to school for the week. However, please do not purchase new items for this event.

Homework
Literacy M.A.P. homework is due tomorrow. A new Home Reading calendar for December has been loaded into the plastic folder. On the back, you will find a variety of reading strategies that students should be using to decode unknown words. If they are having difficulty figuring out what a word is, have them choose a strategy to help them.


See you tomorrow. 


Ms. Toy



Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Agenda

Hello Grade 3's & Parents,

Apologies for not posting the agenda sooner.

Today I gave you a test about your learning styles. I will share your results with you tomorrow.

Also, thank you for working on your Ted Harrison Art. Our goal is to finish this before Winter Break.

Please remember your Library Books for tomorrow. Also, field trip forms are due ASAP.

See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Monday, November 29, 2010

Monday, November 29, 2010

Hello Grade 3's and Parents, 

(1) Parent Teacher conferences were very well attended. Thank you to all the families that came out.
(2) Please return your Dr. Seussical the Musical permission forms as soon as possible.
(3) There is no Levelled Learning homework for tonight. However, please ensure you complete your daily home reading tonight.
(4) Library Books are due on Wednesday for our weekly Library Exchange. If you have any books at home, please return them for either renewal or exchange.
(5) Your Winter Wonderland orders were picked-up during the Parent/Teacher conferences. Please inspect your items for any damage and report to hala_99@hotmail.com by November 30th at 3pm. PHS Parent Council thanks you for your support!
(6) Our class needs one parent volunteer for the remaining Fun Lunches (there will not be a Fun Lunch in December). Responsibilities would include things like counting money, confirming orders, and distributing the lunches on the actual Fun Lunch day. If you are interested, please email me at natoy@cbe.ab.ca and I will pass your name along. Thanks in advance!
(7) A reminder to all students that there is to be NO sliding on the school grounds. It is dangerous for people and will ruin the grass underneath.

Have a wonderful evening. See you tomorrow.

Miss Toy

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Parent Teacher Conferences

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,

As we have parent teacher conferences tonight and tomorrow morning, the only homework you have over your weekend is to spend time reading each night for 20-25 minutes.

Leveled Learning will start again next Wednesday. As such, there is no Literacy MAP homework for the next few days.

Enjoy the next few days of warmth by spending some time playing outdoors. Stay safe.

See you Monday.

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Warmer Weather Today

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Finally a warm day to be enjoyed outside! Your first day of outdoor recess since the snow began falling last week.

Please make responsible decisions about your play in the snow. Remember that throwing snowballs and sliding on the hills located around the school is never allowed.

Please book an appointment to see me for parent-teacher conferences if you have not done so already.

Scholastic Book Fair: Students can begin purchasing books from the book fair - located in the library, during parent-teacher conferences starting tomorrow.

Note from School Office: Our Winter Wonderland orders are here! 


Your order will be available for pick-up from your child's teacher during the Parent-Teacher conferences. Please inspect your items for any damage and report to hala_99@hotmail.com by November 30th at 3pm. 


Thank you for your support, PHS Parent Council.


Have a great night.


Ms. Toy

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

It's Cold Out There!

Dear Grade Three's & Parents,

Today was the coldest day yet. Calgary was the second coldest place on earth today. Thank you for your commitment in coming to school even when it's terrible outside.

Literacy MAP - Spelling tests are scheduled for tomorrow. Please study well.

There is no library book exchange this week as the Scholastic Book Fair is in our library this week. Our class will preview the books tomorrow after gym. You will be able to write down your wish list for your parents and purchase books during teacher conferences.

Parent/Teacher Conferences - If you have not booked an appointment to see me yet, please do so as spots are filling up fast. Please refer to the green sheet sent home with your child's report card for instructions in how to do so.

If you cannot see me Thursday or Friday, please send me an e-mail at natoy@cbe.ab.ca or call the school (403) 777-6061, to make alternative arrangements.

I am still looking for one parent volunteer to join us for Dr. Seussical the Musical on December 8, 2010. Please contact me ASAP if you are interested in joining us for this special event.

Scholastic Book Orders are due tomorrow. If you are interested in buying, all forms are due tomorrow,

Stay Warm! See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Monday, November 22, 2010

Winter is Definitely Here!


Hello Grade 3's and Parents,

The winter chill continues in Calgary. 

Please dress warmly for school, even though we haven't been outside lately. Even the walk between school and your house, bus or parent's vehicle is still very chilly! Toques, mitts and warm jackets will help you stay warm!

Please returned signed
Report Card envelopes. They can be returned any time up to and including Parent-Teacher Conferences.

A reminder that
Parent-Teacher Conferences can be booked online. 

There will be no school on Friday, November 26, 2010, due to Conferences. Check out our school website (http://schools.cbe.ab.ca/b397/) for more information!

Parents please remember to pick up the student prizes from the Winter Wonderland Sales and Entertainment Books from your child’s teacher during interviews this week. Thank you for your support with both these fundraisers.

Our class is looking for one parent volunteer to join us for "Dr. Seussical the Musical" on December 8th. If you are interested please email me at natoy@cbe.ab.ca

Library Books are not due until next Wednesday due to the
Scholastic Book Fair that is happening in our library this week.

Our blue
Literacy MAP books came home today with your words to practice for homework tonight.

Have a great night. See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Friday, November 19, 2010

Report Cards Home Today

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,

Report cards came home today. We are asking all parents to discuss the comments made on the report card with their children to help them understand what they are doing well and what areas of growth will be worked on in the term to come. Although the number mark given provides information, the comment section is extremely important to create the whole picture.

A green sheet was included with the report card to help you navigate the Parent/Teacher Conference process. There will be no school for all students on Friday Nov. 26th and no school for all kindergarten students November 25 and 26, 2010, while Conferences are happening.

The Scholastic Book Fair will be at our school next week. Students will have a day next week to preview items to see if there is anything they are interested in buying. Due to the Book Fair, our library will be closed for book exchange. Students have been asked to keep their library books an additional week and return them during the week of November 29th.

Our class is looking for two Parent Volunteers to join us on our trip to Dr.Seussical the Musical on December 8th. If you are interested please email me at natoy@cbe.ab.ca

Have a great weekend. See you Monday.

Ms. Toy

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Agenda for November 18, 2010

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,


Another cold day in Calgary. Students were better prepared for the weather - lots of toques, mitts and scarves today. Please continue to dress warmly.


Literacy MAP - Spelling tests are scheduled for all groups tomorrow. Please complete your homework and have a parent review your words with you.


Parent Council -  A reminder that there is a Parent Council meeting this evening. Please join us at the school at 7pm. We will have updates on fundraising, traffic initiatives, reports from the principal and teachers and more! Parent Council is a great avenue to get involved with the school and find out what is going on and why! 
If you have any questions, concerns, suggestions or just can't make the meeting but would like to be involved in any way please contact the Parent Council at panoramahillsschool@hotmail.com Stay warm and stay safe! 

Thank you, Elaine Cohen
Parent Council Chair

Parent Teacher Interviews - I look forward to sharing with parents, your child's growth and progress. Conferences are scheduled next week: Thursday, November  25, 2010; 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm  and Friday, November 26, 2010; 8:00 am - 1:30 pm. Please visit our school website and find the school conferences icon to pre-book an appointment. Online bookings start today. 
There will be no school for all students on Friday Nov. 26th and no school for all kindergarten students November 25 and 26, 2010.

Have a great night. See you tomorrow. 

Ms. Toy






Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Stay Warm!

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Please remember to dress in layers and to wear outdoor clothing, such as snow pants to ensure you are happy and comfortable playing outside during recess. If weather permits, you are expected to be outside to enjoy the fresh air and snow.

*Please remember to check to see if you're putting on your own clothing as our winter wear often looks the similar to others.

If you see a big blue dot on the doors in the morning, you are welcome to come indoors as it is too cold for you to be outside. You do not need to be asked or told by a teacher.

Social Studies - Have a conversation with your parents tonight about the symbols, activities, animals and ideas that people may think of when they think of Canada.

Math - We are reviewing numbers - how they can be created and represented in different ways. We are also talking about how useful Numbers are to our daily lives.

Home Reading - New books were signed out today. If you forgot your books at home today, please bring them back to school tomorrow and I will send you to the library to get new ones.

Literacy MAP - Please keep up with homework assigned by your teachers. The format is the same for all groups - write each new spelling word five times and beneath it, write a very interesting sentence to show you can use it properly.

There are a few students who have yet to develop healthy routines in completing homework faithfully.

Have a great night.

Ms. Toy

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Winter's Here!

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,

Winter is finally here and it came in fast!

Please remember to dress in layers to keep warm as the weather will continue to be cold and windy. A toque, gloves and scarf are needed for the week. To have a great time at recess, please wear snow pants to stay warm and dry!

Literacy MAP - New words were assigned for your spelling test today. Remember to write them five times and include a very interesting sentence to show you understand how the word is used properly.

Social Studies - Work that was not completed for "A Community" reading was sent home with a few students. Please remember to bring your notebook back to school tomorrow as we will continue with this work tomorrow.

Home Reading - Library exchange is tomorrow. Please remember to return your books.

Fun Lunch - If you placed an order for Tacos, the lunch is scheduled for Thursday this week. If not, please bring your lunch.

Parent Council - Our next meeting is on Thursday, November 18, 2010 @ 7 pm. Everyone is welcome.

See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Monday, November 15, 2010

Welcome Back!


Hello Grade 3's and Parents,

Welcome back after the long weekend! I hope you were able to get a lot of rest and some time outdoors before the snow begins!

Literacy MAP - Please make sure you are following the same format as we do in a class - a line of 4 or 5 words followed by a sentence that uses the word. 

You need to ensure you are completing your sentences with proper letter formation, proper markings and complete sentences that use descriptive adjectives and strong verbs. 

For example, instead of the sentence "She walked to the store."; you could write "The little girl walked down the long, dirty street towards the enormous grocery store to buy some yummy treats."

Home Reading - A reminder that you should be reading at home every night. When you have finished reading, please share what you have read with some of your family. 

Also think "What might happen next?' or "How could I write my own ending to the story?"

Have a wonderful evening! See you tomorrow!

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Have a Great Weekend!

Dear Grade Threes and Parents,

Thank you for showing great respect during the Remembrance Day Ceremony today. I was so proud to see how each of you listened well and recognized this important day.

Thank you to each of you who brought in food donations and money for your poppies today.

Literacy MAP - As mentioned yesterday, spelling tests are scheduled for Monday, November 15, 2010. Please take time this weekend to prepare for them.

Home Reading - Also, please read this weekend as you signed out new library books today.

See you on Monday.

Ms. Toy

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Remembrance Day Assembly Tomorrow

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,

Remembrance Day Ceremony - Things to Remember

The assembly begins at 10:30 am tomorrow in the gym. All parents are welcome.

Please remember to bring "A Can for Each Hand" tomorrow to donate towards the Veteran's Food Drive. If you wish, you may bring more than 2 cans.

Each child is asked to bring 25 cents to donate towards receiving their poppy tomorrow. Parents please talk with your child tonight about generosity and compassion - many students believe they are 'buying' a poppy and/or will receive more than one poppy if they donate more than 25 cents.

Also, please talk to your child about the solemness of this assembly. They are not to clap or cheer after student performances. Students may need to practice their one minute of silence at home tonight with your support.

Literacy MAP - Spelling tests for all groups have been moved to Monday, November 15, 2010. Please continue to help your child complete their homework over the weekend.

Home Reading - You are responsible to spend time reading each night. Please remember to do so.

See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Monday, November 8, 2010

Another Monday!

Dear Grade Threes and Parents,

First of all, a big thank you to all students for your help in completing the poppies for the gym wall for the Remembrance Day assembly on Wednesday morning. Your hard work will help remind our students to be grateful for the peace and freedom we enjoy as Canadians.

A reminder to parents that the assembly begins at 10:30 am on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 in the gym. You are welcome to attend.

We are supporting the Veteran's Food Drive this year. Our goal is for students to bring "A Can in Each Hand." We are hoping that each student will bring at least 2 cans of food to donate. A big thank you in advance for your support.

Literacy MAP - All students will have spelling tests on Wednesday morning. Please help your child prepare by quizzing them at home and to practice words using the grapheme markings.

No School - In honor of Remembrance Day, there is no school this Thursday for students. In addition, students also have Friday off as well.

Please return to school on Monday, November 15, 2010.

Have a great night.

Ms. Toy

Friday, November 5, 2010

Seeing Red!

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,

Thank you for your enthusiasm and hard work in making so many Poppies for the Remembrance Day Assembly.

They will look great on the gymnasium walls but even more so, they will help our school focus on the importance of the day.

We will have to do a final count of the how many we made, put on the finishing touches and stick them to the walls on Monday.

Again, thank you!

School Pictures - A forgotten item from yesterday's agenda was that individual student picture packages were sent home. I'm sure you've already found them in your child's bag but just in case you have not, please check their bags!

Homework - Please spend time reading this weekend!

See you all on Monday!

Ms. Toy

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Painting Tomorrow

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,

Thank you for being mindful of how to be compassionate today. It was great to hear how many of you were able to see Compassion in action today. We used Wordle to record how we were treated well today.

Share with your parents, how someone was compassionate to you today or how you were compassionate to someone else.

Painting Tomorrow - Each student needs to bring a clean, unwanted, oversized shirt tomorrow to wear as a painting smock. If you have an extra shirt you are willing to donate, please bring it in case someone forgets. We will be creating poppies for the Remembrance Day ceremony next week.

Home Reading - Please spend time reading tonight.

Literacy MAP - Spelling tests are scheduled tomorrow for every group. Please study!

Remembrance Day Assembly - Wednesday, November 10, 2010 @ 10:30 am in the school gym. Parents are welcome to attend.

Veteran's Food Drive - We will be collecting non-perishable food items for the Veteran's Food Drive this year. Our goal is to have each student bring at least 2 cans of food to donate - "A Can for Each Hand."

Next Wednesday, we will have tables set up outside the gym doors for students to drop off their donations before the assembly.

Have a great night. See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Virtue of the Month: Compassion

Dear Grade Threes and Parents,

Character Circle - Mrs. Unruh met with the grade three community to discuss the challenges we been having  in showing Compassion to one another. As a large group, we shared how we many of us have felt disappointed in how we are being treated in the classroom and on the playground. Please share with your parents, ideas that were discussed and how you can show greater compassion to your peers.

Literacy MAP - Today a new round of leveled learning started. Please remember to complete the homework assigned by your teacher. All groups have spelling homework tonight and tests scheduled for Friday. If you are in my group, please review the 10 words given to you today and have a parent begin testing you at home to see if you can spell them (you do not need to use the grapheme markings). We will work at writing sentences with your words tomorrow morning.

Social Studies - Today we read "The Lorax," by Dr. Seuss. Many of you were able to connect our discussions of needs, wants and quality of life to the theme of the story. Tell your parents about the Once-ler and the Lorax. Share how the Once-ler made it very difficult for others to meet their basic needs.

Library Book Exchange - Students signed out new books today. Please spend time reading and enjoying your books at home. If you have forgotten your books, please bring them back tomorrow and I will send you to get new ones.

See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Tuesday Agenda

Dear Grade 3's & Parents, 


Today we spent time on the computers showing how we understand the idea of 'Quality of Life.' By creating a Notebook about ourselves, we will look at how we think our needs and wants are being met. 


In Math today, we looked at patterns again in numbers. Many of you found this work challenging and we will try working on the problems again tomorrow. 


Story Writing - You have been given time to write a story for the last few days. Tomorrow will be another opportunity for you to write, review and complete your work. 



Picture Retakes  - tomorrow morning, Wednesday November 3, 2010 is Retakes for School Photographs. Come prepared if you require Retakes or if you were absent.

Have a great night. 

Ms. Toy

Monday, November 1, 2010

Remembrance Day Song - Build me a World

Dear Grade Threes,

Mrs. Mann has asked me to post the lyrics to the song you will be performing at the Remembrance Day Ceremony.

Please read them over and try to remember them. She will practice the song with you this week.


Thank you.

Ms. Toy



Build me a world

Build me a world where there’s hope for children
            To grow with no poverty, no hatred or war
Build me a world where there’s room to move in
With wide open scenery and clear skies above

I'll___ climb the mountains
         and look out over the sea.
I'll___ build the bridges
connecting people to me.

Build me a world where there’s no more sickness.
We share all our promises the rich and the poor.
I’ll build this world if you stand beside me.
Give me hope___, Give me faith____. Give me love____.

I'll___ climb the mountains
         and look out over the sea.
I'll___ build the bridges
connecting people to me.

Build me a world where there’s no more sickness.
We share all our promises the rich and the poor.
I’ll build this world if you stand beside me.
Give me hope___, Give me faith____. Give me love____.

Dig is Finished!

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Today students who did not participate in the 'dig' last Friday had their turn! Thank you so much to our parent volunteers - without you, we wouldn't have been able to have this special event.

Literacy MAP - A new round starts Wednesday this week. You will begin to have homework again.

Home Reading - Please finish up on your library books as they are due Wednesday.

Tomorrow, our day will be more settled. Everyone will be back in class for the day!

Have a wonderful night.

Ms. Toy

Friday, October 29, 2010

Happy Friday!

Dear Grade 3's and Parents,  


Today half of our class completed the Archeological Dig while the other half is scheduled to participate on Monday. A big thank you to all parents who spent the day with us - we appreciate you very much!  

If you participated in the dig, please share your favourite experience of the day with your parents.

We continue to work on our basic needs and wants project using Notebook. Thank you for using the computers responsibly.  

A reminder to share the playground space at recess. It was very crowded today and the field was not used well by students. Remember there are many things to do apart from being on the playground equipment.  

Have a great weekend.  


Ms. Toy

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Park is Open!

Dear Grade 3's  & Parents,

Archeology Dig - Tomorrow half of our class will participate in the dig. The other half of the class will compete the dig on Monday. You will find out which day you will 'dig tomorrow morning.

Thank you to my parent volunteers for your willingness to help. Your time and efforts are greatly appreciated.

Playground - The park was officially open for play today. Please keep in mind how to share the playground, show respect for others and to be responsible in how you use the equipment.

Home Reading - Please spend some time reading tonight.

See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Read & Write!

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Library Book Exchange - Thank you for remembering to bring your books back today.

Literacy MAP - There will be no homework assigned for a few days. However, please remember to use the knowledge and skills you've learned when you read and write.

Playground - Today you had another opportunity to play on the park with Mr. Spriggs. Please remember the 4 rules of how to use the playground responsibly. The playground will be open for play tomorrow.

Writing Journal - Please think more about your story plan tonight as you will be asked tomorrow to write a story about the picture I gave you today. Remember if your plan is well-written, your story will be easier to write.

Social Studies - Today we began to watch a video about Needs & Wants. Please share with your parents what you think your needs are and why.

Thanks for reading the agenda. See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Please Remember!

Dear Grade 3's & Parents,

Library Books - Tomorrow is our regularly scheduled book exchange. Please remember to bring your books back!

Playground News - You went through a park tour and orientation today with Mr. Spriggs. Please share your experience with your parents. Share the park rules with your parents.

(1) Use the Equipment the Eay it was Designed to be Used
(2) Include Everyone - No One is to be Left Out
(3) Make Decisions to Play Safe
(4) Have Fun!

Also, please remember that you can only play on the park after school if you are supervised by a parent.

Archeological Dig - If you can volunteer on Monday, November 1, half my class will join half of Miss Laslo's class for the dig. The other half of the class will complete the dig on Friday, October 29, 2010.

Again, I am still looking for volunteers. Please contact me!

Have a great night!

Ms. Toy

Monday, October 25, 2010

Playground Approved!


Dear Grade 3's and Parents,

We are still looking for volunteers for our Archeology Program taking place at our school this Friday, October 29, 2010.
 
I need 4 volunteers and currently have one volunteer. If you are available to help, please email me at natoy@cbe.ab.ca

Math: Today we worked on a word problem called the 'Nut Eating Tournament.' Students have been working to apply the 5-Step Problem-Solving Process to complete their work. The steps are as follows: 

1) Find and Highlight the key, important facts in the problem
2) Highlight the question you are being asked to solve
3) Eliminate, by crossing out any confusing, unimportant information in the problem
4) Solve the problem using an effective strategy; show all the steps and work you used to arrive at your answer
5) Write your solution in a sentence; check to see that your answer is sensible

Playground - We received some exciting news today - our playground has passed the safety inspection! However, students will not be allowed to play on it until they have completed a safety and orientation session with Mr. Spriggs this week. Hopefully, the playground will open for free play later this week. 

Weather - Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear due to the change in weather this week. 

Homework: Literacy MAP work and Home Reading.

Have a wonderful night!

Ms. Toy

Friday, October 22, 2010

Great Dancing!

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

What a great day of dancing! You guys are so talented and I am proud of you!

Thank you for working hard at learning your moves with Jeremy. Your hard work paid off!

Home Reading - Please spend some time this weekend reading your chapter books.

Social Studies - Today talked about our upcoming Needs and Wants project. Can you remember and name the 8 needs? Try to tell your parents.

Playground News - Tomorrow at 12 pm Noon, parents are invited to come help landscape the area around the playground. Please bring a rake if you can help.

Play on the park will not be allowed until the landscaping and inspections are completed.

Science - Archeology Dig is scheduled for for Friday, October 29, 2010. It will be a full day event and I am still looking for volunteers to help. Please contact me.

Enjoy your weekend and the weather before it changes next week.

Ms. Toy

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Thursday Homework

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

Today we read the book "How Full is your Bucket?" Tell your parents about the story and explain how each of us have invisible buckets above their heads. In journal writing students were asked to reflect upon "What empties my bucket?" and "What fills my bucket?" Please continue to work on developing these lists tonight for homework.

Hip-Hop Dance Presentation - Tomorrow afternoon we will be gathering as a school community to celebrate our dance residency with SoundKreations. The assembly will begin tomorrow at 1:30 pm. We ask that if parents attend, they bring a non-perishable food donation for the Food Bank. Students may also bring donations if they wish.

Please practice your dance moves tonight to be ready to perform tomorrow. See yesterday's agenda for the dance video to help you remember if you have forgotten the steps.

Crazy Hair & Hat Day - Tomorrow you can wear a crazy hat and/or style  your hair as crazy as you wish. However, if you do not wish to participate, you do not have to.

Parent Volunteers - I am still looking for parent volunteers to support us in our Archeological Dig next week. Please contact me as soon as possible if you can help. You must have a police clearance check completed to volunteer at our school.

Parent Council Meeting - The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 27, 2010 at 7:00 pm. All are welcome to attend.

Have a great night. See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

So You Think You Can Dance?

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

Today we worked on Math Word Problems in class focused on Patterns. Many of you were able to find the pattern rules for the problems and solved them because you worked hard. Thank you.

Literacy MAP - Please continue to work on reviewing graphemes 27 - 54. You were given a print out of the graphemes and examples of the words today. Also, please study your spelling words for Friday's test.

Home Reading - Please read the "Rock Clues" article that you put into your homework folder today. Circle the words that you do not understand or recognize. We will talk about the information tomorrow in Science.

Science - Next week, students will be participating in an Archeological Dig at the school. We need parent volunteers to help with this exciting event. Parents, - please e-mail me ASAP at natoy@cbe.ab.ca or call the school at (403) 777-6061 to let me know if you are free to help out!

SoundKreations - Please practice your dance moves at home by viewing the following videos. Click on the links below and show mom and/or dad your moves!





Fun Lunch Tomorrow - If you placed an order, you will have pizza tomorrow! If not, please bring your lunch.

See you tomorrow!

Ms. Toy

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Agenda - Tuesday

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

A reminder that Fun Lunch is on Thursday, October 21, 2010. Pizza will be served to those who placed orders. If you did not order pizza, you are expected to bring a lunch.

Math - Please share the problem you worked on today with mom and/or dad. It was challenging but many of you managed to get through it because you tried your best. If you struggled with the problem, please reflect upon how well you spent your time in class.

Literacy MAP - Please study your graphemes and spelling words for your test on Friday morning.

Have a great night. We'll see you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Monday, October 18, 2010

Monday Homework

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

Today we worked on our "Me Planets." Students were asked to cut out images and/or words that represent who they are: their interests, values and anything they view as important to know about them as individuals.

Please bring in any pictures you find online or pictures of family members (including pets). Please ask mom or dad before you bring your pictures in.

We will continue to work on this tomorrow. Please continue to bring magazines and/or newspapers from home to help us with this project.

Literacy MAP - Please complete any homework assigned by your teacher today. If you are in my group, please have mom or dad review graphemes 27 - 54 with you for the next few days for homework.

Hip-Hop Dance - Today students began learning a hip-hop dance routine for their performance on Friday, October 22. The instructor - Jeremy has asked students to practice the first part of the routine to be ready to add on to it for tomorrow. Please practice at home!

Crazy Hair and/or Hat Day - This happens this Friday. You are not required to participate but if you wish, please feel free to do so. Please ensure your hair and/or hat does not interfere with your ability to work in class or dance in the performance.

PHS Hoodies Contest - All design submissions are due Thursday, October 21, 2010.

Have a great night!

Ms. Toy

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Playground & Hip-Hop Dance

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

Apologies for posting the agenda late. I have not forgotten about you!

Thank you parent volunteers for your time in building the park. We are so appreciative of your time and efforts.

Students - please continue to respect the workers by staying away from the park work site until it is finished.  Thank you for showing responsibility by making wise decisions about where you played at recess on Friday.

Next week, Dance Kreations will be at our school to teach the students hip hop dance. Students will use their bodies to move creatively to learn a dance routine. A Dance Showcase Assembly will be held on on Friday, October 22 at 1:30 pm. If you plan to attend, we will be accepting Non-Perishable Food Bank Donations at the door.  Please remember to follow all assigned parking rules around the school. 

The due date for the P.H.S. Hoodie Logo Design Contest is Thursday, October 21, 2010. Please make sure you read the directions for the logo design carefully.

Winter Wonderland Fundraiser - we continue to raise funds to attend Dr. Seussical the Musical! Please return your order forms as soon as possible.

Have a wonderful rest of the weekend!

Ms. Toy



Thursday, October 14, 2010

Working Together

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

Today is the first day of the new playground building project. I know you are all very excited about having a new place to play. Please make wise decisions about keeping a safe distance away from the workers and their equipment. They have a job to do - which is to get our playground built. Your job is to make sure they can do their jobs without worrying about any of you getting hurt. Please play only in the assigned recess areas.

Literacy MAP - Please study for your spelling tests tomorrow. All learning groups have tests scheduled.

Panorama Hills School Hoodies Design Contest - Please think about creating and entering a design for our school hoodies contest. Remember your design must be respectful and appropriate for both girls and boys to wear. Your entries are due next Friday, October 22, 2010.

Art - We will continue with our pattern glasses tomorrow. Please see yesterday's agenda as we continue to need supplies. Thank you!

Please read the Morning Message everyday - as it will prepare you begin the day more focused and thoughtful about how the day will be organized.

Since the beginning of the year, most of you have shown great responsibility and enthusiasm for learning. However, a few of you continue to find the pace of work and getting work done very challenging. Remember - "If you know it, can you show it?"

We all have important jobs to do at school. Please remember yours is to learn and show your best effort at whatever you may be asked to do. My job is to provide work that is both challenging and interesting to build the 'wrinkles' in your brain.

Student Photos - Orders are due tomorrow. If you would like your picture taken again, you need to send the envelope back with the retakes box checked off.

Have a great night. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Reminders

Grade Threes & Parents,

Welcome back! I hope you had a restful weekend.

Library - Remember to read your chapter books today that you signed out from the library.

*A few of you seem to consistently forget library book exchange is on Wednesday mornings. Please remember to bring your books back to school on time so you can participate in book exchange with the class.

Fun Lunch Forms - Tomorrow is the last day to order and pay for Fun Lunch for October and November. Late forms will not be accepted.

School Picture Order Forms - Thank you to those of you who have already returned your order forms. Please remember your orders are due this Friday!

Pattern Eyeglasses - We will continue to work on our pattern glasses later this week. We continue to need used, unwanted glasses for students. If you have a pair lying around the house that you can donate, please send them to school. As well, we continue to need odds and ends to create patterns on our glasses.

Have a great night. See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Friday, October 8, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving!

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

Please remember to share the photo package with your parents that was sent home today. Your order for pictures is due next Friday, October 15, 2010. On the order form, you will notice a message about a late fee if you miss this important date. Please send in orders as soon as possible beginning Wednesday.

Any fundraising orders and money for Winter Wonderland can be returned to school starting next week as well.

Home Reading - Please spend time this long weekend enjoying a book inside or outside as the weather promises to be great!

Enjoy your long weekend. Set apart time to spend it with friends and family. Take a moment to be thankful for something or someone. Share with your parents why you are thankful.

Ms. N. Toy

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Homework

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

Today there were a few items sent home today in the homework folder. They included: the Winter Wonderland Fundraising brochure & order form and fun lunch order forms for October and November (orange form, double-sided). Please check in your child's backpack.

Art/Math: We will be working on our pattern eyeglasses tomorrow afternoon. If you haven't already done so, please bring in a pair of glasses. Also, any items that we can use to glue onto the glasses would be greatly appreciated as have not received much yet. Please yesterday's agenda for ideas.

Home Reading: Please make sure you are reading each night and having mom or dad sign on the calendar.

Test Tomorrow: A final reminder that you will be tested on home addresses and phone number tomorrow along with your parents' names. Please study tonight! We will write this test tomorrow morning.

Days Off: Students have no school next Monday, October 11 and Tuesday, October 12. Please come back on Wednesday.

Have a great night. Tell your parents about the balloon relay we had at the end of the day.

Ms. Toy

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Library Books

Dear Grade Threes & Parents,

We continue to learn how to be responsible to show good manners in class and outside during recess.  Please be ready to learn when you arrive at school each morning. A positive attitude can make the biggest difference in helping build excellence into our classroom community.

Home Reading - New library books were signed out today for those of you who returned your books. If you forgot your books today, please bring them back tomorrow and you can make a personal library visit. Please continue to read on a daily basis with a parent.

Math/Art - We continue to look for items from home to build patterns on our eyeglasses. Small items such as: beads, sequins, beans, macaroni, feathers, etc. will work well to complete this project. Please bring your eye wear in before Friday as we will be working on them in the afternoon.

Personal Data Quiz - Please remember to study up for your quiz on Friday. You need to know - your parents' names, your home address and phone number and your parents' cell phone number.

Have a fantastic night. See you tomorrow.

Ms. Toy

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Wordle & Grapheme Game

Dear Grade Threes & Parents, 


Sorry for posting the Agenda so late. I was at the dentist. 


Today we created a class Wordle from our key words about "What Makes a Great Leader?" Ask your child about Wordle and try it out at www.wordle.net Choose a subject or topic and work together to create your own Wordle


We also looked at photographs of different children's faces. In groups of three, we began to use Thesauruses to find great adjectives to describe what we saw. We will continue our work with this tomorrow. 


At the end of the day, we introduced the idea of drawing emotions correctly on faces. I am very interested in what you were able to come up with. I can't wait to see them tomorrow! 


Homework Items:
(1) Teach your parents how to play the Grapheme game I showed you in class. It is a great way to review or learn your graphemes at home. You were given the grapheme cards yesterday in your homework folder. You will need to cut apart the cards carefully before you can play. You will need the cards and dice to play.


Try your best to explain the rules and how it is played. Here is a basic explanation:
(a) Pass all of the cards out until the deck is equally shared amongst all players
(b) Player one rolls the dice
(c) Player one chooses the number of cards shown on the dice face from his/her own hand
(d) Player one can challenge anyone playing to complete one of the following tasks: 

  • (i) come up with one word that uses the grapheme shown 
  • (ii) come up with the number of words shown on the dice for one grapheme 
  • (iii) to make the all possible sounds the grapheme can make
**If the challenged player can complete assigned task (i), (ii) or  (iii) then they take the grapheme card from player one.
**If the challenged player cannot complete the assigned task, player one can keep the card(s) in his/her hand for further play.


(e) Players two - four,  each get a turn to complete steps b-d. 
(f) The game can be played for as little or as much time as you want; using the full grapheme deck or part of the deck.
(h) The 'winner' of the game has the most cards at the end. However, we all win as you we will all know our graphemes better!


(2) Home Reading
(3) Library Book Exchange is tomorrow - please remember to pack your books in to your backpacks tonight, so you can sign out new ones tomorrow. 
(4) Remember to bring your homework folder and class notebooks back to school everyday.
(5) October's Newsletter is available on-line on our Panorama Hills School website. A paper copy will not be sent home. The newsletter includes a fundraising update as well as more information about the playground that will be built this month.


Thanks. See you tomorrow.


Ms. Toy

Monday, October 4, 2010

Monday Homework


Dear Grade Threes & Parents: 

Today we spent time looking at the story of Gilgamesh the King. We were asked to think and write about "What Makes a Great Leader?" Students were asked to brainstorm adjectives and attributes that they would use to describe a leader. We will continue with this tomorrow. Currently, we are in the process of choosing a Student Voice Representative from our classroom to attend lunch time meetings once a month with Mrs. Unruh. 



Key Information Test: On Friday, we will be quizzing students on their parent's names, their home phone numbers and address and parent cell phone numbers. Please review or help them learn these important things before Friday. Thanks!

In the upcoming week, the Literacy M.A.P. homework will consist of students learning or reviewing the 70 graphemes. This daily review will improve their success with our Literacy M.A.P. activities throughout the remainder of the year. Below are three links that will provide support as they review/learn the 70 graphemes. Click on the links below to open:


*We talked briefly about how to practice graphemes at home by playing games at the end of the day. We will talk about it in class tomorrow so that you will be able to teach your parents. 

Scholastic Orders: An order form was sent home today with your child. You are not at all required to buy from Scholastic as there are many options to purchase and/or view books online. However, if your child would like to order something from the Lucky order form, please enclose payment in the form of a cheque payable to Scholastic Canada and send it to school by Friday, October 8, 2010. 


Important Dates: This weekend is Thanksgiving. There will be no school for students on Monday, October 11 and Tuesday, October 12, 2010. 

Have a great night. 

Ms. Toy