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Back-to-School Night 2019



September 19, 2019
Welcome fifth graders and their families:

I have had the pleasure of meeting several of you already, but allow me to introduce myself:  my name is Suzanne Smith.  I have been a part of the Maplewood community for the past 24 years: first as a parent to three, PTA board member, volunteer extraordinaire, and finally, a teacher.  This is my 10th year of teaching and I strive to create a fun, safe and respectful learning environment that celebrates the unique contributions of our students and their families.  I love themes and connecting our learning across the curriculum.  
Learning occurs in many places – not just in the classroom.  Your student needs your help!  You have a big impact on your their success – not only at home, but I welcome you to volunteer in our classroom be it copying or leading small group literature circles, field-trip chaperone(s), and small groups (reading & math).  Interested? Please email me.
Here is what we will study this school year:
Literacy Block- New this year:  Equity-Based Balanced Literacy This shift to a balanced literacy approach places equal focus on teachers as decision makers with utilization of students' cultural and linguistic assets to create caring classrooms where students cultivate positive literate identities as readers and writers. 
Reading:                                                                                                              Writing:
  • Monthly genre projects                                                                                     Narratives
  • SSR = “Sustained Silent Reading” = kids read their own book!               Literary Essays
  • Literature Circles                                                                                                Informational & Research
  • Class Read-Aloud ‘s                                                                                            Opinion       


Social Studies Units with Mr. Kaplan: Native American Unit and project, US History, and State Project
Science:  Variables Unit, Earth, Moon & Sun Unit, and Microworlds Unit
Health:  The goal is that health-literate people are able to obtain and apply knowledge and skills to enhance their own health and the health of others — both now and in the future, as their needs change throughout their lives. 
Please see the class blog for more information and to download the  “Opt-Out” form if desired.
Specials:   P.E. & ART are full-time this year, along with library and technology.
Email is the best method in which to contact me with any questions or concerns.  My email is ssmith@pps.net .  The school phone number is (503)916-6308 and our school secretary, Maria or Shannon, will transfer you to our classroom between the hours of 7:45 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  Also, my website which can be found through Maplewood’s website or here: https://smithclassof2020.blogspot.com/

Happy New School Year,
Suzanne L. Smith
Maplewood, 5th Grade
phone:  (503) 916-6308
email:  ssmith@pps.net
    "I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework."

                                                                                                                                  -Lily Tomlin

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