What's the Story?

Read the play "First Step to Freedom" in your Scholastic Newspaper.  Respond to the following questions:

1.  What is the main theme of this play?

2.  Where and when did the play's events take place?

3.  Pick two characters.  How are they similar?  How are they different?

Should School Buses Have Advertisements?

Big advertisements on city buses are nothing new.  But lately, ads have been popping up on school buses too.  Nine states allow schools to put ads on the outside of their buses.  Several others may soon do the same.  Some districts also allow ads inside buses.  Businesses pay school districts to run the ads.  That extra money can help pay teachers, buy books, and help keep the buses running.  Many districts are careful to avoid using ads for things like junk food. Some people argue that it doesn't matter what the ads are selling - they don't belong on buses.  They say the school bus is one of the few places most kids get a break from advertising.  Other say it's a safety issue, because buses covered with ads could distract drivers.  What do YOU think?

~ Scholastic News

Christmas List

'Tis the season to give!  In our classroom tomorrow, we will be creating gifts for family members.  What other gifts will you be giving for Christmas?  What are you hoping you will get for Christmas this year?  (make a list!) If your family does not celebrate Christmas, what do you celebrate instead?  How do you celebrate?

Mystery of The Maya

Why do you think everyone is saying the world is going to end in 2012 (this month).  Do you think this is true, valid information?  What do you think is really going to happen?

~ Scholastic News 12.03.12 edition

2012 Year in Review

Read pages six through nine in your Scholastic Newspaper.  What do you remember about the past year?  What stands out to you?  Write your own Year In Review about what happened in your life.

Require Art and Music Classes?

The Mayor of Chicago, Illinois, thinks that more kids should be singing and dancing.  Mayor Rahm Emanuel recently announced that he wants students to have two hours of arts education each week.  The plan includes art, music, drama, and dance classes.  Supporters say classes in the arts help boost creativity and keep students more focused in school.  But critics of the plan say cash - strapped schools can't afford to add these classes.  In fact, many schools are cutting them.  Many people argue that subjects like math and English are more important than art and music, which kids can do after school.  What do YOU think?

~ Scholastic News 12.03.12 edition