2013 08 12 Grade 5 Welcome Letter August 12 2

Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 3

Developing a mindful heart

Grade 5 Welcome Letter

August 12, 2013

Dear Parents, Welcome to 2013-2014 Grade 5. My name is Piers Matthews and Im thrilled to be the 5th grade teacher at QISS this year!! First, allow me to introduce myself briefly. I graduated from LaTrobe University (Melbourne, Australia) with a Bachelor of Asian Studies. I have been teaching and training across a variety of roles for 9 years, including three years of teaching in China. In the past I have specialized in language arts and literacy and hold several English teaching qualifications include a Cambridge Cert. TESOL (CELTA). It is crucial that teachers of students from a range of nationalities are able to identify and empathise with student language needs and adapt the curriculum to meet those needs. I recognise that every child is unique, with different educational and cultural backgrounds, so I hope I can work closely with you, the parents, to ensure that all of your childs needs are met. If your child has any special requirements or if you ever want to discuss their progress please do not hesitate to contact me directly at [email protected]. Curriculum This year is divided into four units, each with a different theme. Our first unit is titled Who We Are and How We Express Ourselves. This unit is dedicated to exploring cultures, values and belief systems from around the world to see how the unique perspective individuals bring to the world enhance our global society. The students will be examining their own histories and backgrounds to enrich classroom discussions. I have a wide range of exciting and interesting projects planned for the year and I am looking forward to going through this journey of discovery with your child. I want to involve the students in the planning stages as much as possible so that each of them feels a sense of ownership over their accomplishments throughout the year. You will be provided with a curriculum guide for the 5th grade during Open House on August 28th.

Vitality ~ Courage ~ Compassion ~ Intelligence ~ Sensitivity

Developing a mindful heart

Technology Throughout the year I will be bringing technology to the classroom as much as possible. I am passionate about the need for students to become technologically literate and to learn to use technology in a responsible and intelligent way. In this ever-connected world it is important that students learn the opportunities and risks that technological advances present so they can become truly global, connected citizens.

Meet Our Specialists

Classroom Website I have created a website where I will be posting information about the class, our points of inquiry, schedules, classroom rules etc. throughout the year. Although the website is quite bare at the moment, I will updating with more content regularly so please check back to keep up-to-date with our class progress. http://themrmatthews.weebly.com/

Art: Ms. Nadine Bouliane Behaviour/ClassroomConduct I am a big believer in promoting students to be responsible for their actions by treating them with respect. As the 5th grade teacher I see it as part of my role to help students prepare for middle and upper school where they will be required to take more personal responsibility. As a result, I will involve the students in the rule making process, while still ensuring that the core foundations of good behavior are adhered to. Of course I expect students to be punctual to class, well mannered, polite and respectful of their peers and teachers. Students must respect one anothers personal space and property at all times. In the first week of class we will brainstorm and develop a class mission, and a set of class rules that the students will all sign. I will post these on the classroom website. Healthy Lifestyles QISS is promoting healthy eating, so please send healthy snacks and/or lunch such as fruit, vegetables, yoghurt and cheese. Chips, chocolate bars and sweet cookies are not encouraged.
Chinese : Ms. April Fan

PE: Mr. Mike Dorchak

Music: Ms. Victoria Kholodkova

Vitality ~ Courage ~ Compassion ~ Intelligence ~ Sensitivity

Developing a mindful heart

Cell Phones Your child does not need to bring a cell phone to school. If he/she needs to contact you, they may do so via the school office numbers: 532-6889-8888 and 532-8890-9802. You can also leave a message for your child with the office if you need to contact him/her. If your child needs to carry a cell phone, please notify the classroom teacher. Let your child know the phone needs to be off and not used during school hours. If a student is found using a cell phone without teacher permission, it will be taken away and returned at the end of the day. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen phones. Electronic Devices No electronic devices are allowed in the lower school, including Ipods/MP3 players, PSPs, DS or gaming devices unless they have teacher permission. If a student is found using an electronic device without permission, it will be taken away and returned at the end of the day. The school will not be responsible for lost or stolen devices. Hat Policy Starting from this year, hatsare required for all outdoor activities during summer terms. Students and staffs without hatsare required to remain within the sheltered areas at recess and lunchtime and are not permitted on the field or in the open play areas.

Once again, welcome to 2013-2014 Grade 5. I look forward to meeting you. Warm Regards, Piers Matthews

Vitality ~ Courage ~ Compassion ~ Intelligence ~ Sensitivity

You might also like