Dragon Tales
Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary School
April 5, 2024
Congratulations to our All-County Band and Orchestra performers!
Solar Eclipse
On Monday, April 8, Maryland will experience a partial solar eclipse between 2 and 4:30 p.m., with peak timing around 3:20 p.m. During a solar eclipse, the Moon blocks the light of the Sun, causing a shadow over Earth. On Monday, there will be about 90% coverage in Maryland which will cause it to become darker outside.
This timing occurs during school dismissal times in CCPS. The school system will operate on a normal schedule on Monday, April 8. However, during the eclipse outdoor CCPS activities taking place in Charles County other than student dismissals will be deferred until 4:30 p.m. or later. The James E. Richmond Science Center is hosting a free eclipse viewing event, “Our Sky Today,” on April 8 from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
To learn more about the Science Center and how to safely view the solar eclipse, visit the Latest News section of www.ccboe.com.
Early Learning Launch
RSVPs are being collected for the Early Learning Launch set for April 20. The Early Learning Launch will be held 10 a.m. from noon at La Plata High School at 6035 Radio Station Road in La Plata. The event will provide resources for families with children ages 5 years and younger.
Prekindergarten and kindergarten teachers will host school readiness activities for parents and children. There will also be resources from community partners and a tour of a school bus. Help with the prekindergarten application and kindergarten registration — in English and Spanish — will be available. To RSVP, click here.
Upcoming Events
World Autism Month
National School Library Month
National Occupational Therapy and Poetry Month
Month of the Military Child
April 7-13, 2024 National Library Week
April 10, 2024 Two-hour Early Dismissal; Eid-al-Fitr; Career Day; Glow Party 2pm-4pm Grades 3-5
April 15, 2024 Report Cards posted; Prek application/kindergarten registration window opens
April 16, 2024 Board Meeting 1 pm; Public Forum 6 pm
April 17, 2024 Envirothon at Gilbert Run Park
April 18, 2024 Title I DADvisory meeting, 6-8 pm Starkey
April 19, 2024 PTO Kona Ice Fundraiser
April 20, 2024 Early Learning Launch 10:00 am-12:00 pm
April 21-27, 2024 Administrative professionals Week
April 22-26, 2024 Public School Volunteer Week
April 22, 2024 Earth Day
April 23, 2024 Passover
April 24, 2024 Administrative Professionals Day; ESOL Community Night; 2nd Grade Field Trip
April 24-30, 2024 National Student leadership Week
April 25, 2024 Reading Partner Luncheon; 2nd Grade Field Trip
April 26, 2024 Arbor Day
April 29-May 3 CCPS Child Nutrition Employee Appreciation Week
April 30, 2024 5th Grade Field Trip
Rideshare Reminders - Uber/Lyft, etc.
Per the guidance on page 32 of Parent Handbook/Calendar, “Taxis and ride-share services: CCPS does not allow or approve of the use of taxis, cars-for hire or any form of ride-share services (such as Uber or Lyft) to pick up students from its schools or school-sponsored events. CCPS is not responsible for the use of such services by students, and any students who use these services do so at their own risk.”
Grade Level News
Kindergarten
First Grade
Hello First Grade Parents,
In the coming weeks we are finishing up tell me a story (module 8) and starting module 9, grow plants grow. Students will learn about how they can grow their own food to eat. Below are some videos students can watch to gain more knowledge.
Here is a video about fables, we will talk about The Tortoise and the Hare and a few other fables in the next few days.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ed7xKs1vPJ8
Here is a video for the upcoming module, grow plants, grow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sEKubBz9fA
Here is a video with Curious George about a garden.
Below are the sight words we have learned and will be learning in the next few weeks. Please take some time to practice these words with your students. The more words they know the more fluent students become with reading. 😊
We have started a new math unit, in which students measure items. Here are some videos to help with that skill. Students should know how to measure with standard units (inches and centimeters) and non-standard units, (paper clips and cubes). Students should also know how to draw a picture or use words to explain how they solved the problem.
Here is a video for non-standard measurement:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKIhuuVmcF8
Here is a video for ways to measure:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zC4BSlBJAyk
Here is a video for comparing and measuring lengths:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIQg8e0erEE
Thank you for everything you are doing at home to help students be successful at school. If you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s teacher. Reminder students are allowed to bring a small jacket to wear in the classroom if they are cold. Students need to leave all toys, including pokemon cards at home unless the classroom teacher has given permission to bring them. Big coats are to be worn for recess outside, the weather is changing, and some days are warmer than others, but please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather.
Thank you!
First Grade Team
Second Grade
Greetings Second Grade Families!
We hope all is well as we prepare to march into spring! Here are our upcoming activities!
In our new unit, students use place value understanding, the relationship between addition and subtraction, and properties of operations to add and subtract within 1,000. We will learn different strategies to add and subtract efficiently. Please work students to have them practice counting numbers beyond 100. Recognizing patterns is important with using numbers efficiently. This will help with strategies including counting and counting back. Students will see a variety of strategies to show their thinking including number lines and place value blocks.
In reading, our scholars will be learning about different animal habitats and the animals that live there. We will read about animals that make their homes in forests, oceans, and deserts. We will also learn how different habitats meet the basic needs of the animals that live there. Children will write a research report about an animal and its relationship with others.
We are preparing April for our trip to the One-Room School House in Port Tobacco, MD on April 24th or 25th. Two classes will go per day: (Wednesday – Alexander and Bland) and (Thursday -Foster and Buitrago-Curtis). Thank you for working to plant the knowledge into our scholars that will help them grow and reach success.
Ms. Alexander, Ms. Bland, Mrs. Buitrago-Curtis, and Mr. Foster
Third Grade
Parents please remember:
- Check folders and agenda books daily.
- Let the office know by 12:30 of any changes to dismissal.
- Breakfast is over at 8:55 so please be on time for school.
- Send a water bottle to school for your child.
The weather is changing please make sure we are wearing tennis shoes.
With the weather changes please check the county dress code
Please if you can send in tissues, glue sticks and pencils. We are running low.
Homework will stop at the end of April.
Reading Reminders:
- Your child should be completing the homework packet daily and practicing their spelling words. The spelling words match the phonics skills being taught in class.
We are starting our unit on Home grown foods.
-Have your child practice writing by writing a letter to a teacher
- If you are able have your child, get on IREADY My Path at home for extra practice.
- Encourage them to read every night for 20 minutes.
Math Reminders:
- We are continuing to work on multiplication facts. Please work at home on facts and skip counting.
We are working on our Measurement unit after spring break.
- Have your child work on adding and subtracting using expanded form.
- If you are able at home, please have your child get on IREADY My Path for math.
Make sure you are practicing the math fact packets coming home for our fact test on Friday.
Come Visit us!
We always need help in the lunchroom and at recess. If you would like to volunteer your time and stop by to be with third graders we would love to have you. Lunch is from 12:30-1:00. Recess is form 1:00-1:30.
MCAP
The week of April 15 we start our MCAP Reading test. Please make sure your child is well rested and here for test taking.
Fourth Grade
In math, we are continuing to work on division with three and four digit numbers by one digit numbers. To prepare for the upcoming MCAP test, we will be spending time each day working on MCAP practice questions to continue utilizing our test taking strategies.
In reading, we are beginning Module 8. We will be working to monitor & clarify as we read to check for understanding, as well as using ideas & support to determine facts vs. opinions. We will also identify text & graphic features and the author's purpose for writing the text (to inform, entertain, or persuade).
Additional information on vocabulary and spelling words will be sent home with students in black Tuesday folders for practice at home. Consider reading with your students to enhance their comprehension strategies as well.
We are getting ready to begin MCAP Testing. Students in fourth grade take ELA and Math. There are some things you can do to prepare your student(s) for testing. This includes helping them prepare by:
Reading each of the answer choices before selecting a response
Going back in the passage to look for the answer or clues
Summarizing the text as you read (stopping periodically to make sure you understand)
Using key details and what you know
Double checking your answer in math to make sure you get the same answer each time
Using the tools that are available (ruler, counters, underline tool etc.)
Taking your time and reading everything fully
If you would like to practice the MCAP at home, please use the following resource:
https://support.mdassessments.com/practice-tests/
Most of our assessments are online, so you may want to have your child(ren) practice with the online tests, so they are familiar with the tools.
Feel free to reach out to the team via email/Talking Points, or schedule a phone conference as needed.
Ms. Butler, Ms. Doss, Mrs. Forbes, Ms. Williams
5th Grade
April 10th is Early Dismissal Day. Career Day will be held on this day between 9am-12:30pm. Students will rotate between various occupations to learn more about potential careers. Later this day, students will be able to attend a Glow Party Dance between 2-4pm. Permission slips and $5 are needed to attend.
Students will begin MCAP testing on Monday, April 15th. The MCAP test is one assessment used at the end of year to gauge how well students learned content throughout the year in reading and math. MCAP testing will last until May 17, 2024.
There are 2 more field trips planned this school year. The next field trip is Port Discovery in Baltimore, MD on April 30, 2024. Chaperone info and permission slips are due by April 16th. No permission slips will be accepted after April 16th.
As we prepare for the end of the year, we would like to inform you there will not be a graduation ceremony. Instead, students will attend a fun day celebration commemorating their time at Dr. Mudd. This will be held on June 5th from 4-6pm. Parents are encouraged to attend. More information will be provided.
Science
5th Grade – We completed a lesson on Climate Change this week and will be starting a unit on Space.
4th Grade – We are finishing up Waves and starting a unit on Information Processing using our sensory organs and our master computer – the brain!
3rd Grade – We have been practicing writing observations about animals and will be visiting the turtle garden at Dr. Mudd next week.
2nd grade – We will start a unit on organisms that live in Habitats.
On Monday, April 8th, the whole school will be going outside in the afternoon to view the solar eclipse using special solar eclipse glasses. Students will watch a video on this special event prior to Monday.
Art
In the Pre-Kindergarten class, students are engaged in a fish collage project that requires them to use their imagination and creativity to create a stunning piece of art.
Kindergarten students are all set to apply their newly acquired skills on textures to draw a picture of themselves playing in a serene meadow. This activity aims to help them unleash their artistic talents and explore their surroundings.
First Grade students are preparing to paint a self-portrait. They will be applying the skills they have learned about tint and shade to create a masterpiece. The project aims to help them develop their painting skills and express their individuality.
Second Grade students are currently learning how to create beautiful shapes using clay through their coil pottery project. This activity aims to help them develop their fine motor skills and unleash their artistic potential.
Third Grade students are engaged in clay modeling to create small containers in the form of any creature. This project aims to help them develop their creativity and explore their potential as artists.
Fourth Grade students are working on their yarn fabric using a straw loom. This project will help them develop their creativity, patience, and fine motor skills, which will be useful for their upcoming project about a “Story in Stitches” using yarns and burlap squares.
Finally, Fifth Grade students will be creating their letter forms and symbols to communicate their ideas and feelings. This project aims to help them express themselves artistically while exploring their creativity and technical skills.
Support Staff News
Math News
We are still talking about time. This issue gives suggestions on conversations you can have with your child that are centered around time. Then there are suggested activities that can be done at home to help your child learn the concept of time.
How To Measure Time Using A Clock?
Telling the time in English using a clock is a simple process that involves reading the position of the clock’s hands, typically an hour hand and a minute hand, against the numbers or markers on the clock face. The hour hand points to the hour, while the minute hand points to the minute. To determine the time, first, locate the hour hand and note the number that it is pointing to. Then, locate the minute hand and note the number that it is pointing to. The time is read as the hour followed by the minute. For example, if the hour hand is pointing to 8 and the minute hand is pointing to 15, the time would be read as “8:15” or telling the time in words – “eight fifteen.” It’s important to note that digital clocks display the time in a numerical format and don’t need this process. Additionally, some clocks might have a second hand, but it’s not necessary to measure time, it’s used just to measure the seconds.
Analog Clock
Telling time using an analog clock can be a bit more complex for children, especially for those who are just learning how to tell time. Here are a few tips to help children learn how to tell time using an analog clock:
Start by teaching the child the numbers on the clock face. Point to each number and say it out loud.
Explain the difference between the hour hand and the minute hand. The hour hand is shorter and points to the hour, while the minute hand is longer and points to the minutes.
Use the clock to teach the child the concepts of time such as half-hour, quarter-hour, and five-minute intervals.
Practice telling time with the child. Set the clock to different times and have the child tell you what time it is.
Use games and activities to make learning about time more fun and engaging. For example, you can play a game where the child must set the clock to a certain time or match digital and analog times.
Encourage them to use the clock to know when certain events happen like lunchtime, playtime, bedtime, etc.
Be patient and provide plenty of opportunities for practice. Remember that each child develops at their own pace, so it’s essential to be patient and provide plenty of opportunities for practice.
Digital Clock
Telling time using a digital clock is a bit easier for children than an analog clock, especially for those who are just learning how to tell time in English. Here are a few tips to help children learn how to tell time using a digital clock:
Start by teaching the child how to read numbers. Point to each number and say it out loud.
Explain that a digital clock displays the time in numerical format, typically hours and minutes. For example, “8:15” or “eight-fifteen”.
Encourage them to pay attention to the clock throughout the day, and ask them what time it is.
Use games and activities to make learning about time more fun and engaging. For example, you can play a game where the child must set the clock to a certain time or match digital and analog times.
Practice telling time with the child. Set the clock to different times and have the child tell you what time it is.
Encourage them to use the clock to know when certain events happen, like lunchtime, playtime, bedtime, etc.
Be patient and provide plenty of opportunities for practice. Remember that each child develops at their own pace, so it’s essential to be patient and provide plenty of opportunities for practice.
How to Teach Your Child About Time of The Day?
1 . Morning Time
Explanation: The time of the day when the sun rises and starts to light up the sky.
Example: “Good morning! It’s 7 o’clock, time to wake up and have breakfast.”
2. Mid-Morning Time
Explanation: The time of the day after breakfast, but before lunch.
Example: “It’s 9 o’clock now, time to brush our teeth and get ready for school.”
3. Lunchtime
Explanation: The time of the day when we eat lunch.
Example: “It’s 12 o’clock, time for lunch. Let’s go eat our food.”
4. Afternoon Time
Explanation: The time of the day after lunch and before dinner.
Example: “It’s 2 o’clock now, time for our nap or quiet time.”
5. Evening Time
Explanation: The time of the day when the sun sets, and the sky turns dark.
Example: “It’s 6 o’clock now, time for dinner and family time.”
6. Night time
Explanation: The time of the day when it’s dark outside, and most people are asleep.
Example: “It’s 8 o’clock, time for bed and sweet dreams.”
7. Late Night Time
Explanation: The time of the day when it’s very late, and most people are asleep.
Example: “It’s 10 o’clock, time for the house to be quiet and get some rest.”
8. Early Morning Time
Explanation: The time of the day before the sun rises and it’s still dark outside.
Example: “It’s 4 o’clock, time for the early birds to start their day, or for the night shift to finish.”
9. Midnight Time
Explanation: The time of the day when the clock shows 12:00 am.
Example: “It’s midnight, time for whoever is awake to sleep, and for the new day to begin.”
Activities That Will Help Your Child Learn About Time
1. Using a visual schedule
Create a daily schedule for your child that includes pictures of the activities they will be doing, and the time they will be doing them. This will help them understand the concept of time and how it relates to their daily routine.
2. Telling time with a clock
Teach your child how to read a clock by using a real clock or a clock app on a tablet. Start with the basics, such as identifying the hour and minute hands, and gradually progress to telling time to the nearest minute.
3. Paper Plate Clock
We love how simple this project is to re-create since all you really need are some paper plates, markers, and a metal fastener. The numbers on the outer edge help your students make the connection between the minute hand and the spoken or digital time.
Get tutorial: Make a Paper Plate Clock
4. Wear paper watches
First, print and cut out the free printable paper watches available at the link below. Draw hands on each clock face and record what time each student’s watch reads on a master record sheet. Have kids decorate their watch bands, then fasten them on their wrists and add the clock faces. Give each student a record sheet, then let them go around the room and ask each of their classmates, “What time is it?” They look at their classmate’s watch and record the time. Check their results against your master.
Get tutorial: Paper Watch Craft for Kids
Time Chart For Kids
Here’s a time chart for kids to help them understand what every hour of the day looks like.
Egg Clocks
For time-telling practice, make them into games. Just draw analog clocks on one half and write times (in words or digital time) on the other, then have kids match them up.
Directions: Telling Time Match Up
Parent Resource:
One of the trickier aspects of telling time is understanding how the number 1 also means 5 minutes, the number 2 means 10 minutes, and so on. This paper clock activity helps students make that connection. (Pro tip: Use paper plates to make this craft even easier.)
Get tutorial: How to Make a Clock to Teach Time
Books For Teaching Time To Your Child
1. “What Time Is It, Mr. Crocodile?” By Judy Sierra
2. “The Grouchy Ladybug” By Eric Carle
3. “Tick Tock, Clock!” By Paul Meisel
4. “The Clock Struck One: A Time-Telling Tale” By Trudy Harris
A message from Ms. Williams Deleon and Ms. Ayers
"April is Autism Awareness Month. Please find just a few fast facts as we celebrate and bring attention to autism spectrum disorder.
Like always, feel free to reach out to us if there's any way in which we can support you.
Nikkia Williams Deleon, nwilliamsdeleon@ccboe.com
Maria Ayers, mayers@ccboe.com