BLIZZARD OF 2011

Hello to you all on this very cold and blustery February 2nd. I'm using this "Snow Day" opportunity to update my blog and share with you all the current PA news. The last several weeks have been very busy with elementary PA testing, report cards and Open House; we are now finally settling into a comfortable routine! Thank you to all who were able to stop and visit Room 209 last Thursday evening. It is always so much fun seeing my students with their families, and I apologize to those who I did not get to welcome personally. I can't tell you how much your children love to share their "home away from home," and show you all around their school. It is a joy to see!

As I mentioned in my last update, we are all transitioning into new units of study in PA. My second graders will be starting problem solving later this week. You will hear them mention the Ancient Greek Gods and Sparta and Athens, as I lay the foundation for the simulation math game called Athenian Secrets. For some students, this stimulates a life long interest and enthusiasm for Greek Mythology and ancient cultures. As they play the game, they work cooperatively in groups, solving math problems. These problems often require them thinking critically and logically, while at the same time, using effective problem solving strategies.
The third grade is already immersed in Hands On Algebra. This visual and kinesthetic instructional system enables students to easily and enjoyably learn essential algebraic concepts and skills. Ask to see their Algebra packets throughout the next several weeks....I think you'll be surprised at what they can do!
In fourth grade we are just now beginning our Neuroscience Unit Study of the Brain, focusing on the brains structure and functions. This unit also offers opportunities for students to begin to understand how the brain affects behaviors, personality and individual learning styles. This unit is fascinating....and always a PA favorite. As a matter of fact,  your children requested that we begin this unit immediately, and not wait until spring. We will transition into our math unit, Geometric Explorations, in March.
Economics and Stock Market is now the main focus in fifth grade Project Arrow. As the weeks pass, they will develop a better understanding of basic investing and financial concepts, stocks, the stock market, savings accounts, bonds, and basic economics. Hold on to your hats...soon they will be choosing a company to research and will begin participating in the Stock Market Game. They have much to learn, but are full of ennthusiasm! It's a great unit.

Please take note that several events are occuring throughout our area and district regarding gifted education. I copied them below for those who may not be members of IPPA PTA. Mr. Raczak and I are attending the IAGC Conference in Chicago on February 7th.

Thanks for all your support. Your kids are the best!!

Stay warm....


16th Annual IAGC Conference - February 6 - 8, 2011http://www.iagcgifted.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=43&Itemid=42

GECO Summer Camp Fair
Thursday, February 10th, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Hinsdale Middle School Commons, 100 S. Garfield, Hinsdale
Contact gecocampfair@gmail.com or see the flyer for more information.

FRoG Monthly Planning Meeting - Tuesday, February 22, 7:00 - 9:00 at
the Downers Grove Public Library

Spring Chess Tournament - Saturday, March 5th at Hillcrest Elementary
in Downers Grovehttp://www.dgfrog.org/Chess_Register.html

Stage 203 Summer Activities Expo
Thursday, March 10, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Kennedy JHS, 2929 Green Trails Drive, Lisle IL 60532
Go to the Stage 203 website for more information as the event gets
closer.

NAGC offers Webnairs on Wednesdays. http://www.nagc.org/wow.aspx
Here is an upcoming list:
    February 9, 7:00 pm
    Using Technology in the Classroom to Differentiate Learning with
Del Siegle and Jann Leppien

    March 30, 7:00 pm
    Making Differentiated Products Powerful in the Middle Grades with
Julia Roberts and Tracy Inman

    April 13, 7:00 pm
    The Road Less Traveled: Combining Creative Thinking &
Differentiation with Patty Wood