Beverly Cleary School

January 8, 2013

Happy New Year! It is amazing we are midway through the year already, though we still have so much ground to cover! In history, we have learned about our hominid ancestry, Paleolithic and Neolithic times, as well as some of the great empires of Mesopotamia. We will be entering the world of the ancient Egyptians next.

We have accomplished quite a bit in writing so far. We celebrated the success of several sixth grade narrative essays that won honorable mentions, completed a character analysis, some poetry and have reviewed basic parts of speech. We continue to build our vocabulary so it can be imbedded into our daily writing, and will be looking at how authors structure sentences and paragraphs. Our focus will be on developing writing techniques and style.

This month brings the beginning of our preparation for the state OAKS reading test. Students will only be allowed to test one time if they meet the benchmark for sixth grade. In previous years, they have been able to take the test multiple times to improve their score. We are beginning to practice some testing techniques that will help alleviate some of the stress that comes with this style of testing. We have learned several literary elements including: plot, setting, theme, inferences, characterization, simile, metaphor, personification and conflict. Students are working on completing the genre sheet, which is due the last week of June. Everyone should be reading at least 15 minutes each night.

Currently, we are working on an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream. Blocking has just been completed for the first two acts, and we are working hard on voice projection. We are in need of some large fake plants, some sewing skills, some donations in the form of fabrics for the fairy skirts, and large branches that can act as trees for our wooded scene. If you think you can help out in any of these areas, please drop me an email or send a note.

As always, I appreciate your continued support as we work together to give your child the education he/she deserves. In light of the recent tragedies, we can all give our kids an extra hug and be grateful for everything we have. May this year bring your family much happiness and continued good health.

Sincerely,

Lisa O’Brien