Your first OWL!

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Hello Wizards and Witches,

Can you believe that you have been accepted for studies at Hogwarts despite your non-magical roots? (Well, as far as I know you're non-magical.  Actually, I suppose your mum could be a witch or your great-grandfather COULD be a wizard. ) Anyway, the point is, you HAVE been accepted and that is great news for you AND me!  You'll report for your fourth year with me,  Prof. Brigham, on August 30th.  You'll have Prof. Cote for potions though. This is a little bonus for you!  She is fantastic.   Don't worry if the world of Harry Potter is all new to you and don't feel like your year will be a dud because you've already read one or more of J.K. Rowling's books.  The year will be MAGICAL regardless.  How do I know this? I know this because I have 23 years of experience.  I've learned a lot over the course of those years.  Most importantly, I've learned that children, all on their own, are magical beings. Your magic, paired with my enthusiasm and experience , will surely make your fourth year at Clough...ahem, Hogwarts, magical!

You might be thinking, "Harry Potter?  Didn't they do that last year?"  You might be interested to know that this team of teachers has taken on LOTS of themes.  From nautical to culinary, from broadway to superheroes. we've enjoyed each and every one too.  But, we have NEVER repeated a theme.  NEVER.  NOT ONCE...until this year.  Why are we repeating the Harry Potter theme?  For one, it is AWESOME!  Secondly, we are repeating to continue a full year celebration of the 20th Anniversary of J.K. Rowling's first Potter book, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.  It was first published in 1997. I fell in love with this book series shortly thereafter when one of my fifth grade students gave me the book as an end of school year present.  What a gift that was! I remember having to wait nearly a year until the next book was published.  You witches and wizards are so lucky beause you can just pick up the next book as soon as you finish one!  Over the course of this magical year, you will read the first two books, you'll write to Harry, learn to play chess, or continue your study of the game, learn to play Quidditch, and if you're lucky, win a house cup or two and taste some sweet butterbeer. I know you'll be a Potterhead in no time, if you're not one already!

There are a few things you should do to prepare for your fourth year at Hogwarts.  

1. Wrap up your summer reading.  I hope you picked a great book for YOU.  There were some fantastic books/authors to choose from.  I'm looking forward to hearing about your reading experience.  What?  you're already done?  Challenge yourself to read another either from the summer reading selections or another that you pick on your own.  Reading is one of the best things you can do to increase your brainpower.  
2. Think MATH.  This summer, I've been paying attention to math.  I mean REALLY paying attention.  Do you know what I've realized?  It is EVERYWHERE.  I use it all the time.  My life is easier because I love to do math.  I'll share a lot about my mathematical adventures once we're together but for now, let me share this.  I started off my summer by building a patio with my husband.  Our neighbors donated the patio blocks (they were building a new, fancier patio).  The blocks are square and measure one foot by one foot.  My neighbors gave us 160 patio blocks.  What are the possible dimensions of our patio?  We didn't use them all but we almost did!  How are you with your multiplication facts?  Knowing your facts fluently will help to build your confidence with solving more difficult problems.  If you have some time on your hands, brush up on your facts in way that works for you and is fun.  We are going to have so much fun in math this year.  Just wait!
3. Gather your supplies.  If your muggles already ordered them, sit back and relax because they will appear at school magically.  (Thanks to the PTO!)  Otherwise, click on the SUPPLIES tab above to see what you'll need.
4. Click on this link:  https://flipgrid.com/816fd9 where you can view a short video from me to you.  Then, record your own video to share with our class.  It is fun and easy.  Feel free to email me if you have difficulties.  I'll be happy to help.  
5. Finally, REST UP.  This witch is going to work you hard.  You will struggle and strain.  Your fourth year will be difficult.  However, it will be beneficial, rewarding and FUN and you will grow!  You will be successful.  Promise!

Remember:    King's Cross Station, Plattform 9 3/4, Howgwart's Express - August 30, 9:00 AM sharp!   Don't be late!

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Professor Brigham
4th Year Instructor
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (AKA: Clough)

mbrigham@mursd.org

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