August 11, 2008

Dear Energetic 4^th-Grade Learners:

��������� I hope you have been enjoying your summer break.� My favorite part of summer is teaching the PRIMES summer reading program.� You get the opportunity to meet students from all over Manchester and work with other educators designing exciting instruction for each developing reader.� Learning to get the most out of what you read is important.� In grade 4 you will be applying the reading skills you acquired from Mrs. Lavey and Mrs. Dunklee and developing new exciting ways to enjoy what you choose to read.

��������� Many of you are already making plans for the first day of school.� This will be Wednesday, August 27, 2008. Reminder:� The day now begins at 9:05 a.m. and we will dismiss the first day at 1:17 p.m.� Our normal dismissal will be at 3:25 p.m.�� You are encouraged to bring a nutritious snack to keep up your learning energy.� This will give you a chance to practice your math skills, organize your assignments to take home, and reflect on your learning.�

��������� Have you been reading any of the 2009 Nutmeg Nominees?� My favorite so far is� �Gossamer by Lois Lowry.� The main character, Littlest One, is a young Dreamgiver who works against the sinister deeds of the Sinisteeds that deliver nightmares.� Lois Lowry is a literary giant that creates a story using many of the literary devices we will study, practice, and master this year in our reading and writing instruction.� You can find any of the Nutmeg books our local libraries.� Mrs. Plavin, our school librarian, also has many copies available for you to read.� You should read as many as possible so you will be eligible to vote for your favorite in January of 2009.� You can check out the website below for a list of titles.� There are also links to previous year nominees.� This is a great place to look for suggested reading materials because students recommend them too.

����������� I am posting a list of suggested supplies, but you will also receive a letter from me with a list you can take to the store.� Take advantage of the fabulous sales and stock up on plenty of #2 pencils.�

1.������ Five - 2-pocket folders: You may choose a color of your liking but be sure to have a folder for each subject.� Label them clearly with your name and subject.� The laminated folders last longer or you could purchase extra folders for when you need them later in the year.� Please label the following subjects:� ����������������� Reading/Writing, ���� Mathematics, ����������� Science,

��������� Social Studies, ���� and a Take Home Folder too.

2.����� Pencils, pencil sharpener, and a large pink eraser

3.����� Pencil case to keep supplies neat and orderly.�

4.����� Color pencils and/or markers

5.����� Pens

6.����� Glue stick������������������������������������������

7.����� Black fine line marker for mapping skills.

8.����� Highlighter

9.����� Your enthusiasm and love for learning!

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����������� �Keep up your summer reading and be sure to return your completed Summer Packets on the first day of school.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Inkel