Science:  We are continuing our study of Earth Science.  This month we are investigating our clean water supply and the w plate tectonics theory.
Social Studies:  We have dug deep into the mysteries of the ancient cultures that are the foundation of Latin American culture today.
Math:  Ratios, proportions, and percent will be the focus in math this month.
Reading:  We will continue working on reading skills during Daily 5 and C.A.F.E.  We are focusing on identifying bias, slanted writings, and propaganda.
Writing:  Adjectives and tall tale/folktale papers will keep us busy throughout the month.

Valentine’s Dance
The annual Valentine’s Dance is on Friday, February 10th, 2012.  It will be held in the cafeteria at Lakeview Middle School.  The dance begins at 6 P.M.

No School
Students do not have school on Monday, February 20th, 2012.

SCHOLASTIC BOOK ORDER
I will be sending home the Arrow Book Club order each month.  When you buy books from Scholastic our class earns bonus points that I can use to buy additional books for the classroom.  You are also able to order online, which gives our class even more points.  Occasionally I will send home order forms for other book clubs.  Money and order form need to be turned into me by the due date.  Please make checks payable to Scholastic Book Clubs.  If you order online, your order needs to be completed by the due date also.

CORRECTIONS UPDATE
The file folder organizers are working out great.  Students are stepping up to the responsibility and the file folders help them stay organized.  We have also noticed most students are giving their best effort on daily assignments so that they don’t have to do corrections during recess or take them home for homework.

BOOK IT!
Please encourage your child to read at home for BOOK IT!  I have attached a calendar to keep track of the minutes your child reads.  The goal is 300 minutes for the month.  If your child reaches the goal he/she will receive a coupon for a free Personal Pan Pizza from Pizza Hut.

CHARACTER AND WRITING
This month we are looking at the character trait fairness, reminding students that fair doesn’t always mean equal!  We are also looking at voice in writing, looking for the way that each writer uses their personal choice of descriptive and figurative language to express their voice.

IMPORTANT DATES & REMINDERS
2/2/12	Groundhog Day
2/3/12	WMU hockey game
2/8/12	PTO meeting, 4pm
2/8/12	Count Day
2/10/12	Valentine's Dance
2/14/12	Valentine's Day
2/20/12	NO SCHOOL for STUDENTS
2/22/12	Art/Science Fair  4-6 pm
2/23/12	Board Meeting, 4pm

Sincerely,

Miss Majdan & Mrs. Surprenant