Friday, March 27, 2009

Mexico - Ole!







We have completed our study of the ancient Mexican civilization. The boys and girls made presentations to the class which included dress, music, art, history, and food. We also had fun breaking three pinatas!
Now, it's on to Spring Break for some rest and relaxation!
By Mrs. Morris and Mrs. Metzger

Thursday, March 12, 2009

A Delicious Surprise





Today was the last day of the FCAT and as a special surprise Mrs. Morris and Mrs. Metzger invited Miss Merriam, the Publix Apron's Chef, in to our classroom to show us how to decorate cupcakes! She started by telling us how important it is to wash our hands. In fact, we should scrub with soap up to our elbows while we sing "Happy Birthday" in our heads. Next, she showed us how to hold a plastic bag filled with icing and pipe a flower design or just a swirl. Each child had their turn and choice of pink, blue, green, or yellow frosting. The sprinkles were also a big hit! Before leaving, Miss Merriam taught us all a song in French. What a wonderful way to spend the afternoon!
By Mrs. Morris and Mrs. Metzger

Thursday, March 5, 2009

"The Test" is here


The FCAT (Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test) is upon us. Next Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday we will be taking our standardized reading and math tests in third grade. One way that we are motivating our students to do their best is by putting a little candy treat on their desk each day. The first day we enjoyed Nestle Crunch Bars with the saying "The Crunch is On!" Yesterday the teachers gave the students (Hershey) "hugs and kisses" for working so hard. Today we had "smarties" because we are so smart!

Our students have some advice about taking standarized test for you:


  • When answering detail or sequence questions, go back to the text to find the answer.

  • If you have a context clue question, try "plugging in" all of the answer choices to find the best one.

  • For author's purpose questions, look back at the title and directions for the story. Sometimes it will help you tell if it was written to entertain, inform, or persuade the reader.

  • Take your time.

  • If you finish early, check your work.

  • If you run out of time - guess - don't leave any blanks!

  • Get a good night sleep before the test and eat a nutritional breakfast that morning.

Written by the boys and girls in Mrs. Morris and Mrs. Metzger's class