Grades K-5

There's so much going on in kindergarten! Everyday we are actively engaged in learning! We are settled into the school routine and are following our classroom rules and procedures. This year in addition to our reading, writing, and math is the new Social Studies curriculum! We are learning to be good citizens of America. We also know the symbols of freedom in our country and our state. Symbols: Our state tree is the redwood; State mammal is the grey whale; and our state bird -- if you haven't heard -- is our good friend the quail!

Welcome to the first grade. Join us in an exciting year of growth. Our overall theme is Communities. We begin with our own family and an "All About Me" theme. The students then step outside of the door and look at insects in our own backyard. The children experience a "hands on" approach with ants, mealworms and butterflies. We compare these insects and discover their similarities and differences. Later, we study our own neighborhood and work with mapping and geography skills. Then, mid-year we do an interesting science unit looking at weather. Lastly, we take a trip across the continent to study Africa and get a better understanding of communities that are different. Our reading, writing, math, science and social studies curriculum is integrated throughout our community theme. We look forward to an amazing journey with your child. Sincerely, Laura Nedwick and Julie Stevens

Learning is exciting and fun for second graders at Meadows. A new rotation for science and social studies gives second graders the benefit of spending an hour a week in a different teacher's classroom. Second grade is a place where lots of teachers know your name and share in your learning! All forty-five of our second graders seem to be thriving with the new experiment!

Third grade is an exciting transition year at Meadows Elementary School. They are moving from being primary students into upper grade students. They are no longer learning to read, but they begin reading to learn. Meadows third grade teachers pride themselves on their innovative and creative ways of teaching their curriculum. Written language is expanded. Students are expected to formulate a well-written paragraph, and they take this skill into beginning report writing. These skills are sharpened as they explore the history of the Chumash Indians and the Conejo Valley, learn about Daytime Astronomy, Living Things and Sound. Additionally, third grade is a foundation year for life-long mathematic skills. Students learn their multiplication/division tables. When they master each fact, they earn an ingredient to build an ice cream sundae. Once all of the tables have been mastered, they celebrate with an ice cream sundae party. Third Grade is a FABULOUS year!

Fourth grade is a year for growing both socially and academically. Students are expected to become responsible and self sufficient. The math curriculum spirals and builds on their previous knowledge. New topics include addition and subtraction of fractions and decimals, as well as multi-digit multiplication and division. Our social studies and core literature curriculum focuses on California history. They will enjoy learning about the Native Californians, Mission Days, Gold Rush and California government. Besides reading from their anthology they will enjoy the novels Island of the Blue Dolphins and By the Great Horn Spoon. As a culmination to the year, several will have an opportunity to participate in our field trip to Sacramento or a trip to a mission and rancho.

The Fabulous 5th Grade at Meadows: We've had a great start to the 06-07 school year. We look forward to continuing our learning. Highlights of the year include square dancing at the Civic Arts Plaza. We will also be presenting the "13 Colonies" musical as well as learning about the United States Constitution and participating in the Congressional Hearing at the Ronald Reagan Library in June. Students will find ways to help the environment in and around Meadows through Walt Disney's Jiminy Cricket Environmentality Challenge.