Frequently Asked Questions
What about MCAS?
Assuming that we'll even have to worry about the MCAS test this year...
Just like in third grade, fourth grade students take the ELA and math MCAS tests. The ELA test is typically in March and the math test is generally in May. Both tests have multiple choice questions, short answer questions, and open response questions. There are two major differences in grade four. There are many more open response type questions on the fourth grade test and there is a long composition piece that is scored as well. There really is a huge emphasis on being able to write effectively.
There is zero time spent on "test prep". I value your child's education too much to spend time preparing them to take a test. Instead, I will simply focus on delivering top notch instruction that is aligned with our state standards and meets the diverse needs of our students.
Always remember, we use MANY measures to assess how and what your children are learning and we constantly evaluate and modify our instruction to meet the demands of students who change over the course of the year. MCAS is simply a small snapshot of your learner during a two or three day period of time. When viewed as a complement to other assessments and measures, this data can provide teachers and parents with information about a child that may prove helpful when it comes to helping students make progress.
I will publish test dates as soon as they become available.
Just like in third grade, fourth grade students take the ELA and math MCAS tests. The ELA test is typically in March and the math test is generally in May. Both tests have multiple choice questions, short answer questions, and open response questions. There are two major differences in grade four. There are many more open response type questions on the fourth grade test and there is a long composition piece that is scored as well. There really is a huge emphasis on being able to write effectively.
There is zero time spent on "test prep". I value your child's education too much to spend time preparing them to take a test. Instead, I will simply focus on delivering top notch instruction that is aligned with our state standards and meets the diverse needs of our students.
Always remember, we use MANY measures to assess how and what your children are learning and we constantly evaluate and modify our instruction to meet the demands of students who change over the course of the year. MCAS is simply a small snapshot of your learner during a two or three day period of time. When viewed as a complement to other assessments and measures, this data can provide teachers and parents with information about a child that may prove helpful when it comes to helping students make progress.
I will publish test dates as soon as they become available.
My child's birthday is coming up. Can I send in a treat?
Absolutely! Please know that we do have some nut allergies in our class so please ensure that your treat is nut free. We have 25 students in our class. Advance notice is a luxury but not a necessity.
What about holiday parties?
I am a firm believer in KEEPING IT SIMPLE! Clough usually has a school-wide dress up and parade for Halloween. We will dress up and have a little treat. Prior to the Winter vacation we will party by watching the movie version of a book that we've read and enjoy a couple of treats. We may do something totally CRAZY like a book swap. We do exchange cards for Valentine's Day. Please send a card in for EVERY child. A class list will go home before the big day. I am really all about connecting our festivities with books and great literature or even the arts. ]
Will "we" be doing another major at home project this year like the Massachusetts project?
No! Your students will be doing many in school projects this year. Projects can be very hands on and fun. Kids LOVE to make choices, have a say in their learning, and have fun learning with their friends. As former third grade teachers we have heard just how much families enjoyed learning about our great state together. This always warmed our hearts. However, this year, YOU are off the hook.
Will there be a field trip this year?
Absolutely! We just don't know where to yet!
Will there be a graduation at the end of the year?
Yes and no. We will not have a "graduation" as such. That honor is reserved for our Nipmuc Seniors. However, we will have a fitting celebration of the students' important milestone. We will send along details as soon as we're able.