January Happenings

It seems like we haven't had school this month between snowdays and the days I was out. Here is what we've accomplished:
Third Grade
We have discussed how inventors come up with ideas. Using Creative Problem Solving, we came up with an innovative way to reduce the noise in a school cafeteria. Last week we learned how inventors turned mistakes into inventions such as chocolate chip cookies, and Post-It notes. Next month we will work on our own Inventions. We have been invited to participate in
North Alabama Mensa Kids Trek Inventors Day on February 12th from 2 pm to 4 pm at Huntsville Public Library.
Fourth Grade
Fourth graders have decided and planned their project for presenting their Images of Greatness research. We will have lots of Lapbooks, video biographies and presentations. Students who are including claymation in their project can use the clay left over from other projects or get clay from the dollar store.
Fifth Grade
Fifth graders are working on finishing our "What are Your Chances" unit, and will create a game using probability to ensure their chances of winning. We have begun our "Autobiographies" unit and will analyze autobiographical short stories and novels. We will be writing our own autobiography as well.

Duke Talent Search

I am sending home information regarding Duke 4th/5th grade Talent Search. Students qualify for this program in one of three ways. The first way to qualify is to have a score in reading, math or composite of 95 or better on the SAT X testing that was done last spring. The second way to qualify is to be enrolled in a gifted and talented program (SPACE) and score a IV on the ARMT reading or math given last spring. The final way to qualify is to score in the top 5% on an aptitude test which is the IQ test given to qualify for SPACE.
The program does have a cost associated with it. The benefits of the program are outlined in the brochure and your family can determine if they would like to participate based on the services given. Students who sign up will be recognized at either our K-4 awards day or the 5th grade awards ceremony with a ribbon from Duke.
Feel free to email me with specific questions at claymon@hsv.k12.al.us . Congratulations to all those students who qualify!