Farewell to the Old, Ring in the New

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On Wednesday, January 4, WTCS welcomed in the New Year by singing in the round "Farewell to the Old Year, Ring in the New Year" with all grades participating under the direction of Ms. Wepler! "Ding, Ding, Ding, Ding, DONG!" Happy 2017 to All! 

Since September, the fifth grade has served to mentor the fourth grade in eventually taking over the production of WTCS. On Wednesday, January 4, a fourth grader, joined Caleb Butler, fifth grader, to host the New Year edition of the radio show. Eventually, the fourth grade will assume full responsibility for the program as fifth grade moves on in March to join Middle School meetings. 

A quick review of the addition and subtraction of fractions awaited fifth graders on their first day back in math class. This was one sure way to clear out the cobwebs!

Prior to break the fifth grade completed the reading of a biography of Howard Carter to build background knowledge as they set out to begin their study of ancient Egypt. Much of what we know about Egypt initially came to us through Carter's discovery of Tut's tomb. The excavated some "wonderful things" and some disappointing challenges as they delved into the work of this obstinate archeologist's life. 

Inspired by the palette exhibition at the Florence Griswold Museum, each fifth grader will represent a chapter from the biography, capturing the big ideas in visuals and words on a palette of his/her own creation. Once completed, these palettes will be on display at TCS. Further details to follow.

Palette inspirations from the Flo Gris Exhibition.

Also upon returning from winter break, the fifth graders found themselves touring the banks of the Nile and beyond, using a floormap to navigate this mighty river's course. This exercise prepared students for an upcoming mapping project where they will locate, label and learn approximately 50 key places in and outside of Egypt. Oh, the places they will discover and hopefully, will be able to visit one day. . .

Teddy Marino spreading TCS spirit and cheer in 2017 by donning the newest version of TCS's sweatshirt and a "vintage" TCS hat. The smile is what really caught the camera's eye.

A Birthday Candle

Thirty today, I saw

The trees flare briefly like

The candles on a cake.

As the sun went down the sky,

A momentary flash,

Yet there was time to wish. 

-Donald Justice from Poetry 180

Preparation for the MacLane Poetry Recitation, a TCS long-standing tradition, has begun this week with the search for the most inspiring poem that moves not only the reciter but his/her audience. Unlike my example, the poem must be at least 14 lines long and take no longer than two minutes to recite. Our search will take place in the classroom but feel to support your child by listening to the poems they are considering. All selections must be made by no later than January 17. Please review the letter sent home by Mrs. Sullivan for more details. Your son or daughter will also receive a copy of this letter as a reference. I have challenged fifth graders to pay tribute to the works of modern-day and some of the not so well-known poets, as well as the masters from the past. The overall purpose being to celebrate the voice of poetry.

As you have read, we have returned from vacation to a wonderfull collection of exciting learning adventures! Here's to ringing in a new year at TCS!