This week and last, third graders had the opportunity to experience many agricultural activities and learn from real farmers (dairy, hog, poultry, beef, and apples).  Today at Walnut Run Dairy Farm our class also learned some things about bees and pollination, soil and erosion, and potatoes. We got a wagon ride through a large free stall barn and got up close to many cows! (They milk about 700 cows at Walnut Run three times a day!)  I hope to have pictures for you next week!

Here is the latest newsletter: 5-4-12.

We’ve been busy… read this to find out more: 4-20-12!

Have a nice time with your families over this extended holiday weekend!

Click here to see what we’ve been doing the past three days: 4-4-12

Audacity made podcasting so easy!  It was really a fun experience; one I can’t wait to do with my students again!

This first project involved surveying my students regarding technology use and experience. I created an online survey for my class to take which asked them questions about their technology use in and out of school. (Surveymonkey.com made this an easy process, also!) Teaching elementary students, it wasn’t surprising that all students indicated they currently do not use blogs, wikis, and podcasts – something I hope to change before the year is through!

Click here to listen to my class’ demographic profile in regards to their exposure to technology:

http://podcast33838.podomatic.com/entry/2012-04-01T19_19_35-07_00#.T3kNiUyPNA0.email

(This was my students’ first experience with audio recording for podcasting – as was mine, too!)

Also, here is the newsletter written last Friday: 3-29-12

Sorry it didn’t make it out to you until today!

It is your third grader’s first time taking these state tests…but not to worry!  They are well-prepared!  The P.S.S.A. (Pennsylvania System of School Assessment) tests may seem scary, but they truly are manageable.  There are a total of 6 tests (3 each of reading and math), but I will only be giving one each day in the morning. Our first testing date is Tuesday, March 13.  Please see the attached newsletter which highlights these and many other activities within our classroom in the past two weeks.  3-9-12

Click here for the latest updates in our classroom.  2-24-12

I was able to get Nataly’s and Tim’s animal report up and running, as well (sorry for the delay – we had some technical difficulties).

Report cards went home today!

Your child, if in school today, had the opportunity to see his/her report card.  I showed students their scores and hope that you review the progress report with them this weekend.

Please return empty envelopes to school next week.

Click here for this week’s newsletter: 1-27-12

Thank you and have a nice weekend!