Mr Samuel Chung Fifth Grade Welcome to Fifth

Mr. Samuel Chung Fifth Grade

Welcome to Fifth Grade! Addie Barhoum Natasha Carrel Samuel Chung Rebecca Jones Rafaela Zanetti

Introduction 2 nd Year Teaching – Came from Sycamore Ridge Recently Married in May to Stephanie Chung Graduated from UCSD

Philosophy of Teaching Classroom Community Safe Place for Learning Responsible Students Gradual Release Goal is for independent learners Participation (attendance and active) Technology Times are changing

Expectations in the Classroom Students are prepared as they step into the door (Have Everything Ready and Organized) Active Learners throughout the day Respect and collaboration Quality Work Accountability Charts

Our Focus in Fifth Habits of personal responsibility and self-advocacy (asking for help when needed, being independent) Deeper learning through critical thinking and problem solving (not just “I don’t know”) Active learning (evaluating and improving work)

STEAM+ = science, technology, engineering, arts, music, physical education, enrichment Instruction is increasingly more integrated with core curriculum and across multiple disciplines Focus on application of skills through creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, communication Know vs. develop a model, conduct investigations, support arguments, generate and compare multiple solutions, etc.

Language Arts: Reading Throughout the year we’ll be practicing how to read thoughtfully through analysis, formation of opinions, and citing evidence • Reader’s Workshop: Students will read appropriately leveled, high interest books from different genres, set and discuss goals, track daily progress • Guided Reading: Class novels, discussions, and written responses focusing on a variety of texts • Reading Aloud: Blend instruction with listening skills, comprehension, and integration of curriculum

Language Arts: Writing The three genre focuses will be personal narrative, opinion, and informative/explanatory writing • Writing process: brainstorming big ideas, organization, drafting, revising, and editing • Mini-lessons • Journal writing

Language Arts: Vocabulary Study of vocabulary is ongoing and integrated throughout all subjects • Wordly Wise: Provides consistent practice with both familiar and unfamiliar vocabulary encountered in grade-level literature and content-area reading • English from the Roots Up: Focuses on Greek and Latin roots to help students determine the definition and spelling of unknown words

Math Focus will be on place value and base-ten, fractions and decimals, multiplication, division, and volume • Number talks and counting journals: used to guide strategy discussions that evaluate effectiveness/accuracy, as well as promote computational fluency • Daily problem solving task/investigation for hands-on learning, application, practice, and review of skills • Group rotations for individualized instruction

Science Students will develop and use models, plan and carry out investigations, use mathematical and computational thinking, as well as form evidence-based arguments focusing on: Matter and Energy Molecules and Organisms Earth’s Systems Ecosystems Solar System

Social Studies Development of United States up to 1850 with emphasis on cause, course, and consequence • Native Americans • Explorers • Original 13 Colonies • American Revolution • Constitution

Homework Average of 60 minutes a night Math Reading Wordly Wise Various Projects

How to help at home! Provide students with a work space “Stay at their elbow” – be around, but not over their shoulders Monitor and Guide Check their planners – filled out and completing work that’s written there Quality – “finished doesn’t mean complete” Overall good habits and routine

Communication Daily Agendas for homework and reminders Accountability Chart – Homework and Behavior Wednesday Folders for important school information and schoolwork 5 th Grade Website – Week at a Glance Conferences Email – 24 hour policy

Other Information Volunteer options – on the website and on the table outside District Wellness Be aware of allergies and NO birthday treats Please utilize the website and my email for further information

Before You Leave Sign up for Conferences and Volunteering Sign Family Handbook sheet Fill out contact sheet if you haven’t already done so online Google Docs Permission Forms “A Pocketful of Wishes” Write a note in your child’s journal!