Dear Parents and Adults at Home,
Drug Abuse: Helping Your Child Make Healthy Decisions
We are starting a unit addressing healthy lifestyle choices and drug abuse. The following is an introductory letter.
Like all parents, you want your child to be healthy, happy and safe from harm. You want your child to learn to deal successfully with life's challenges. You want your child to develop healthy relationships. You want them to have the ability to bounce back from challenges and failures and setbacks. In short, you are a loving parent.
For parents of pre-teens, thinking about drug abuse is often a worry. After all, drug abuse can hurt your child both physically and emotionally. In a year or two, your child will be going to high school, forming new relationships, facing new situations. Most young people do not develop problems with drug abuse. But many do. And all young people need help learning to cope with things like peer pressure and influence, and to make tough choices. That is why we are beginning a unit on drug abuse called, Making Decisions.
Making Decisions is a simple program. Its goal is to help reduce and delay the onset of drug abuse among young people. It uses student-student, and teacher-student interaction to explore issues related to making choices such as those involving drugs. Making Decisions also helps students learn and practice strategies for thinking for themselves, being assertive and making decisions that help them reach their goals and stay healthy. The program covers topics such as the differences between needs and wants; refusal skills; identifying advertising influences; learning the effects of substance on the person, community and society; and it even offers a simple strategy for decision making, the Look-Think-Decide method.
How can you help?
As your child participates in Making Decisions, talk with him or her about what is being learned. Assignments may be given, and you can help with these by talking about them with your child. For example, you may wish to discuss advertising and critique ads together. You may like to talk about your own experiences with your peers when you were young, and ways to keep friends but not give in to what the crowd may want to do. Involve your children in learning to make choices, in thinking about their choices carefully, and in making healthy choices. Talk with your children about how the choice to use substances can cause many problems and even limit future choices. All of these things can help reinforce what children are learning in their classroom. After all, you are your child's #1 teacher.
As a parent, can I really make a difference?
Absolutely. Research shows clearly that family influences are among the strongest "protective factors" when it comes to preventing substance abuse. Some of these are:
- Strong communication
- Clear and fair rules and limits
- Strong group problem solving practices
- Meaningful responsibilities shared by family members
- Sharing of family values with your children
No one among us is perfect. Be we can all work toward stronger families, having fun at the same time, acknowledging our difficulties, and showing plenty of love and affection. The influence of our example, and of our communication, can be strong and lasting.
No Guarantees
Even when we do all we can, we know that our children ultimately will make their own choices. Although most teens do not develop substance abuse problems, some do. And many young people take risks experimenting with substances. What do we do if a child abuses alcohol or other drugs? There are no easy answers. But a few things are important. We need to:
- Be alert, know where our children are, who they are with, what they are doing.
- Keep things in perspective. Experimentation does not necessarily lead to problems. But at the same time, do not be an ostrich, pretending there is no problem when there may be.
- Avoid guilt and self-blame. A common first reaction is to blame ourselves. But our children are not puppets on strings. They are responsible for their actions. It isn't "our fault." The first step in change is helping them accept responsibility.
- Talk to others: Don't just try to "go it alone." There are others who can help: family members, friends, and professionals.
- Learn the facts: knowledge is power, the power to understand and to help.
- Ask your PAC chair to host a Parents as Preventors workshop at your school.
For more information, contact the Alcohol-Drug Education Service. Their website is ades.bc.ca. The ADES conducts workshops for parents called Parents as Preventors that offer information about substance abuse, prevention ideas for parents and opportunities to share ideas with others.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.
Social Studies: Planning for the Future
As individuals, Canadians need to stop thinking about water in the short term and start thinking about how the amount of water we use will add up in the long term.
This past week, the students were asked to consider how the following information could be used to make a difference in their own communities.
WATER SHORT-TERM THINKING LONG-TERM THINKING
USE
___________________________________________________
Washing
hands Running tap: 9 litres Filling sink: 4 litres
Brushing
teeth Running tap: 44 litres Rinsing brush: 2 litres
Having
a shower 10 minutes: 200 litres 5 minutes: 100 litres
Running water to get wet, soaping up, rinsing off: 18 litres
Flushing toilet Old-style
toilet: 18 litres
New "low- flow" toilet: 6 litres
Math: Fractions, Percents, Ratios and Rates
We have concluded our math unit. The test will be on Monday, May 5. Please see below for the math homework details. I am always available for extra help if needed. You can contact me at 604-588-8394 or at mikewilliamlink@gmail.com.
The following is a list of Environmental Extravaganza activities happening in the coming week in Surrey:
Green Club Nature Walk at Surrey Lake Park
Saturday, May 3rd | 3-5pm
Surrey Lake Park (152 St, north of 72 Ave – must be accessed heading North on 152 St)
Hosted by: The Green Club
Arbor Day Celebration
Saturday, May 3rd | 10am – 2pm
Celebrate trees by coming out and planting a tree with neighbours and friends! The first 150 tree planters will get a hot dog and drink, so come early and plant lots of trees! Dogwood trees will be for sale - a great deal and addition for your yard!
Unwin Park (68 Ave & 133 St)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
The Pesticide Connection to Cancer:
How You Can Protect Your Health
by Dr. Teresa Clarke
Saturday, May 3rd | 10:30am – 12pm
Are you concerned about the effects of pesticides on health and the environment? Want to know what all the fuss is about? Join us to learn from the experts and discover ways to reduce or eliminate pesticides. Pre-registrations is required, Please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this informative workshop.
Semiahmoo Library (18 Ave & 152 St)
Hosted by: Surrey/White Rock Pesticide-Free Coalition and Canadian
Cancer Society
Darts Hill Garden Park – Spring Open House
Saturday, May 3rd | 10am – 4pm
The public are invited to walk through the fabulous Darts Hill Garden Park. Enjoy guided garden tours at 11:30am and 1pm and a bonus guided bird walk with local naturalist Lynn Pollard to learn about the birds that call this spectacular garden home. Parking is available on site. Sorry, no pets. Most trails are wheelchair/scooter accessible.
Darts Hill Garden Park (16th Ave at 170th St)
Hosted by: Darts Hill Garden Conservancy Trust Society
Marine Creature Discovery & Beach Hero Launch
Sunday, May 4th | 11am – 2pm
Come and explore the amazing marine life of the inter-tidal zone! Join us for a naturalist-led walk at 11am followed by a talk with marine images by naturalist Lynn Pollard, and get crafty with Cat, our Beach Hero Interpreter! Bring a lunch and dress for the weather. Pre-registration is required, please email Cat at cat@birdsonthebay.ca or call 604.536.3552 to reserve your spot at this great event!
Beecher Place (Beecher St & Ohara Lane)
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Salmon Send-off
Sunday, May 4th | 11am – 3pm
Join us for some fishy fun and help celebrate 20 years of improving salmon returns in the Serpentine River! Release salmon fry into the Serpentine River, enjoy a atchery tour, take part in children's activities and experience a walk through a iverine habitat.
Tynehead Hatchery at Tynehead Regional Park (96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Serpentine Enhancement Society & Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
Green Timbers Plant Walk
Tuesday, May 6th | 6-7:30pm
Bring the family and enjoy a guided walk through Green Timbers Urban Forest. Learn to identify common plants and their past and present uses as we explore wetland, meadow and forest ecosystems.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St.)
Hosted by: Green Timbers Heritage Society
Owl Prowl
Tuesday, May 7th | 7 – 8:30pm
Come out, prowl about, have a hoot and see Who! Who! Who! lives in the park at night. Ted Williams from OWL Rehabilitation Society will introduce live owls and lead a guided walk into the park in search of owls. Everyone is welcome. Pre-registration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fantastic presentation and guided walk.
Bear Creek Pavilion at Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: OWL Rehabilitation Society, Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Wild About Gardening
Thursday, May 8th | 4:30 – 6pm
Explore the benefits of native plants, make a plantable craft and create a wildlife garden all in one afternoon! Join SNA P to learn about wildlife gardening tips and tools that you can use at home with this hands-on family program! Preregistration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fun-filled opportunity.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St.)
Hosted by: Surrey's Natural Areas Partnership (SNAP)
See below for more events.
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 67-71
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 62-69
Next week's ID test (May 9) will be on Birds #10 and Africa #43-48 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 316-317, 318-319 - Math test on Monday, May 5th.
Website of the Week: Green Timbers Heritage Society
An information site outlining the many activities and volunteer opportunities at our very own Green Timbers Park.
http://www.greentimbers.ca/
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
The Environmental Extravaganza is a chance for you to get involved in Surrey's natural environment. Events and programs are happening throughout Surrey and the surrounding community from Earth Day (April 19th) to World Ocean Day (June 8th). This award-winning program for EnvironmentalLeadership is a chance for community groups, organizations and volunteers to come together and present a 7-week series of educational and inspirational events and programs, all of which are FREE!
With over 70 FREE events there is something for everyone, so bring yourself, your family or your whole neighbourhood!
In three easy steps you could be entered to win a $250 gift card or one of two $125 gift cards to Guildford Town Centre, here's how...
1. Pick up a passport or download it off of our website
2. Get it stamped at 3 Environmental Extravaganza events
3. Take it to any one of the drop-off locations by June 16th, 2008 to be entered into the prize draw
Passports can be picked up at:
• Any Environmental Extravaganza event
• Surrey Public Libraries
• Surrey Recreation Centres
• Surrey City Hall
• Guildford Town Centre – Customer Service (Passport Contest sponsor)
Surrey's 11th annual
Environmental Extravaganza!
604.501.5121 | www.naturematters.surrey.ca
Here are some more springtime events:
May
Discover Burns Bog
Saturday, May 10th | 10am – 12pm
What do mummies, stopping global warming and a tractor from 1972 have to do with Burns Bog? Take a tour and find out! Discover what the "Lungs of the Lower Mainland" have to offer. Wear appropriate clothing, including closed-toe shoes. No umbrellas please, and bring a bottle of water. Pre-registration is required, please email info@burnsbog.org or call 604.572.0373 to reserve your spot for this great tour!
The Delta Nature Reserve located at Planet Ice (10388 Nordel Court, Delta)
Hosted by: Burns Bog Conservation Society
Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest Habitat Enhancement
Saturday, May 10th | 10am
Come out, join your neighbours and help restore the urban forest to its natural state by removing invasive plants and planting native plants.
Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest (parking lot off of 24 Ave)
Hosted by: Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society
Greening the Serpentine Greenway
Saturday, May 10th | 12-4pm
Join us for live music and performances from the community and learn about ways in which you can 'Green' the Serpentine Greenway. Come and be a part of the celebration connecting nature with culture! Get involved with tree planting and invasive species removal or just visit environmental displays to learn more about what you can do to beautify your City.
Serpentine Greenway (125 St at 68 Ave)
Hosted by: Evergreen
Tynehead Regional Park Habitat Enhancement
Sunday, May 11 | 10am – 1pm
Join us for a day of fun to improve the habitat in Tynehead Regional Park. Drinks and light snacks will be provided; please dress appropriately as we will be getting dirty removing invasive plants, which are threatening the park. Pre-registration is required for this event, please email Andrew at andrew@evergreen.ca to reserve your spot in this fun-filled day.
Tynehead Regional Park (Serpentine Hollow parking lot - 96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Evergreen and Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
The Coyote Zone
Wednesday, May 14th | 7-9pm
Did you know that there are between 2000 and 3000 coyotes that live in the Lower Mainland? Come learn how and why coyotes have gone urban in cities across North America while exploring the coyote zone: the interface between park, alleyway and backyard. We may even spot a coyote!
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St. )
Hosted by: Stanley Park Ecology Society
Junkology
Saturday, May 17th | 10 – 11:30am
What do a whale, a helicopter and a hat have in common? They can all be made from stuff we throw out! Join Dr. Recycle for this fun-filled 'workshop' where kids and adults of all ages can create usable treasure from everyday trash.
Pre-registration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve a spot at this entertaining 'workshop'; children under five must be accompanied by an adult.
Bear Creek Pavilion at Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Birdwatch 2008
Monday, May 19th | 8– 11:30am
Who lives in your neighbourhood? Join in a bird count on the Little Campbell River to learn what magnificent birds call this area home, or are stopping over to take a rest from a long flight. No experience necessary; bring binoculars if you have them.
A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St.)
Hosted by: A Rocha Canada
Fine Feathered Friends
Monday, May 19th | 1-4pm
Flutter in for fun, hands-on family activities with music and refreshments. Check out our gifts and native plant sale!
A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St)
Hosted by: A Rocha Canada
Shorekeepers Training Workshop
Friday, May 23rd (6:30 – 10pm)
Saturday, May 24th (10am – 3pm)
Sunday, May 25th (10:30am – 3:30pm)
Have you ever wondered how barnacles survive during low-tide or what animals make the holes in the sand? Train to be a Shorekeeper and learn the answers to these riddles, and to take an active role in the monitoring of your local marine habitats! Please bring a lunch and wear appropriate clothing. Pre-registration is required, so please call 604.536.3552 to reserve your spot at this unique training opportunity. No experience necessary!
Friday meet at the A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St)
Saturday and Sunday meet at the West Beach Boat Ramp (14500 Marine
Drive, White Rock)
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Mini-beast Madness
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 2pm
Creatures lurk beneath! Join the Little Campbell Watershed Society to take a peak into the hidden life of aquatic bugs that live in our local streams. Take a closer look with our microscope to see how wild these little beasts are.
Semiahmoo Fish and Game Club Hatchery (1284 - 184 St)
Hosted by: The Little Campbell Watershed Society
Discover Burns Bog
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 12pm
What do mummies, stopping global warming and a tractor from 1972 have to do with Burns Bog? Take a tour and find out! Discover what the "Lungs of the Lower Mainland" have to offer. Wear appropriate clothing, including closed-toe shoes. No umbrellas please, and bring a bottle of water. Pre-registration is required,
please email info@burnsbog.org or call 604.572.0373 to reserve your spot for this great tour!
The Delta Nature Reserve located at Planet Ice (10388 Nordel Court, Delta)
Hosted by: Burns Bog Conservation Society
Tynehead Plant Walk
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 12pm
Enjoy a walk along the Serpentine Loop at Tynehead Regional Park. Discover the native plants that bloom in the spring. Find out which plants are edible, which are used for crafts and which were used medicinally. Dress for the weather and meet in the parking area at the 96th Ave entrance. Pre-registration is required, please call Metro Vancouver at 604.432.6359 to reserve your spot at this enlightening guided walk.
Tynehead Regional Park (96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
Sustainable Gardening
Saturday, May 24th | 11am – 1pm
Join us at Stewart Farm's heritage gardens and learn to garden in harmony with nature. Discover labour-saving techniques that help reduce watering and weeding.
Explore ways to minimize the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Learn about composting and the benefits of creating healthy, living soil. Pre-registration is required for this event, please call 604.592.6956 to reserve your spot at this unique gardening workshop.
Historic Stewart Farm in Elgin Heritage Park (Crescent Road west of 135 Ave)
Hosted by: Historic Stewart Farm
Surrey Lake Birding Walk
Saturday, May 24th | 9 - 11am
Discover some of the diverse bird life and improve your ID skills on this guided birding walk with naturalist Lynn Pollard. Bring binoculars if you have them and please dress for the weather.
Surrey Lake Park (152 St, north of 72 Ave – must be accessed heading North on 152 St)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks & Lynn Pollard
Amazing Amphibians!
Tuesday, May 27th | 6:30 - 8pm
From slimy salamanders to tiny tree frogs, there is so much amphibian life in Green Timbers Urban Forest! Join SNA P as they take you on an interactive journey through a dynamic west coast amphibian habitat! Pre-registration is required,
please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fun-filled opportunity.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St)
Hosted by: Surrey's Natural Areas Partnership (SNAP)
Walk the Semiahmoo Trail
Tuesday, May 27th & Wednesday, May 28th | 6:30 – 7:30pm
Come and explore a portion of the historic Semiahmoo Trail; experts will be on hand to lead a walk and explain the trail's history and natural heritage.
Meet at the trail entrance (23A Ave between 151 St and 152 St)
Hosted by: Friends of Semiahmoo Heritage Trail
Beach Hero Marine Interpretive Walks
Explore the inter-tidal zone for amazing animals and plants with our Marine Interpreter; all ages welcome! Free stickers, tattoos and activity books for all Beach Heroes!
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Saturday, May 10 (2:30pm) White Rock, foot of pier
Saturday, May 17th (11am) White Rock, foot of pier
Saturday, May 24th (1:30pm) Beecher Place, Crescent Beach
Saturday, May 31st (9:30am) Beecher Place, Crescent Beach
Saturday, June 7th (2pm) White Rock, foot of pier.
No registration is required, just show up! For more info contact Cat at
604.536.3552 or cat@birdsonthebay.ca
Learn to Fish
Join us at Green Timbers Urban Forest for a fun, educational fishing lesson!This program is for youth under 16, but parent participation is encouraged. Includes hands-on instruction as well as fishing on Green Timbers Lake! All the equipment and tackle is provided. Pre-registration is required, please call the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery Visitor Ctr at 604.504.4716 to reserve your spot!
Green Timbers Urban Forest – meet at the lake
Hosted by: Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC
Thursday, May 1st (6-8pm)
Saturday, May 10 (10am - 12pm)
Thursday, May 15th (6 - 8pm)
Thursday, May 22nd (6 - 8pm)
Saturday, May 31st (10am - 12pm)
Sunnyside Acres Guided Walk
Learn about your local forest environment, its history and management at Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest. Bring binoculars and try to spot some of the 71 bird species that occur here and identify some of the native plants that make this Urban Forest their home. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, this walk will go rain or shine.
Meet at the parking lot off of 24 Avenue in the Urban Forest
Hosted by: Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society
Saturday, April 26th (8 – 9am)
Sunday, May 4th (6:30 – 7:30pm)
Saturday, May 17th (8 – 9am)
Sunday, May 25th (6:30-7:30pm)
Waste Not Want Not
April 12 - June 15 (Saturdays and Sundays only) | 12 - 4pm
Come and learn about the concept of 'thrift' and the origins of the 3 R's - Reduce, reuse and Recycle! Check out ways to convert garbage into treasures, traditional methods of garden composting and how technologies have changed in objects through the use of everyday materials. Historical examples will show how farmers recycled from the 1900's to present days.
Stewart Hall at Elgin Heritage Farm ( Crescent Road west of 135 Ave.)
Hosted by: Historic Stewart Farm
Wilderness Watch Walkabout
Find out what the Wilderness Watch program is all about. Visit the display booth and then enjoy a guided walk in Blackie Spit Park!
Blackie Spit Park
Hosted by: BC Wildlife Federation
Saturday, May 3rd (10am - 2pm)
Saturday, May 17th (10am – 2pm)
Saturday, May 31st (10am – 2pm)
Important Dates in 2008
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Friday, April 25, 2008
Check Out Surrey's Environmental Extravaganza; Math Test on May 5; The Breadwinner Novel Study Concluded
Dear Parents and Adults at Home,
April 22nd was Earth Day and we celebrated it by participating in a school-wide rotation. The students participated in various eco-related activities around the school.
'Walk and Wheel to School' Week was a great success. The teachers kept track of the number of students walking or wheeling (biking or skateboarding) to school each day. Our students calculated the percentages for each classroom and displaying them in bar graph form for all in the school to see. Our school averaged over 70% walkers and wheelers each day! Congratulations to all the students! Exercise and cleaner air, what could be better!
We are still collecting dead batteries for recycling. A recent report said certain batteries — including lead-acid, lithium, nickel-cadmium, silver oxide and mercury — contain toxic heavy metals. Let's keep them out of the water table by keeping them out of the trash.
The following is a list of Environmental Extravaganza activities happening this weekend in Surrey:
Planet Earth Day
Saturday, April 26th | 1-4pm
Too much junk, too many plastic bags or just too much laundry lint? Find out how to turn trash into treasures that you can reuse; take home your own woven plastic coasters and more!
Surrey Museum (17710 56A Avenue)
Hosted by: Surrey Museum
Cycle Clubs Information Fair
Saturday, April 26th | 1 - 4pm
As part of Earth Month, the Environmental Extravaganza and to commemorate the last day of the Museum's Bike Exhibit, find out how to get active with local cycle clubs as you meet club members from a variety of organizations!
Surrey Museum (17710 56A Avenue)
Hosted by: Surrey Museum
Coast to Coast by Cycle
Saturday, April 26th | 1 – 2pm
Join cycling activist Marion Orser as she recounts her journey from Prince Rupert to Halifax by bike in celebration of a birthday milestone. Her 80-day cycling trip illustrates the challenges as well as the rewards as she discovered our country's wonders.
Surrey Museum (17710 56A Ave)
Hosted by: Surrey Museum
Darts Hill Garden Park – Spring Open House and Plant Sale
Saturday, April 26th | 10am – 4pm
The public are invited to walk through the fabulous Darts Hill Garden Park, one of the most outstanding plantsman's gardens in Western Canada. Spring is a time when this garden shows off the colours and fragrances of flowering shrubs, perennials and the largest selection of tree species in the Pacific Northwest. Parking is available on site. Sorry, no pets. Most trails are wheelchair/scooter accessible. Guided tours will take place at 11:30am and 1pm.
Darts Hill Garden Park (16th Ave at 170th St)
Hosted by: Darts Hill Garden Conservancy Trust Society
Surrey Public Library – Community Clean-up
Saturday, April 26th | 1 – 2pm
Make a difference in your community and get involved with this community clean-up. Meet at one of the 9 branches of the Surrey Public Library to help do your part in making our communities shine. The City will provide the equipment and supplies, and volunteers will share some energy and time to help improve their neighbourhoods. Refreshments will be served afterwards.
Hosted by: Surrey Public Library
Surrey's Early Years Festival
Saturday, April 26th | 11-3pm
For parents and children, ages 0-6 years old! Join us for a day of interactive activities, prizes, entertainment, resource booths and much more. Learn about science and nature and the different resources around you!
North Surrey Recreation Centre (102 Ave & City Parkway)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture, and partners
Salmon Round-up
Saturday, April 26th | 9-11am
Visit a salmon pond to help catch Coho salmon! Come to our hatchery Open House (next listing) to see where they end up! Since this will be held outdoors, please be prepared by wearing rubber boots and old clothes.
Elgin Creek (14391 Crescent Road)
Hosted by: RESCUE & Nicomekl Enhancement Society
Nicomekl Enhancement Society Open House and Fish Release
Saturday, April 26th | 11am – 2pm
Help release Coho and Chinook salmon fry and some larger smolts. Learn something new with our educational tours and activities.
Hatchery (5263 – 232 Street, Langley)
Social Studies: Planning for the Future
Here are a few items we have been discussing around the topic of water sustainability:
Most of England receives as much rain as British Columbia. Yet the UN predicts England will have water shortages by the year 2050 because of population growth and the way people use water.
In May 2000, the water supply in the town of Walkerton in Ontario was contaminated with a deadly bacteria called e-coli. Over 2000 people became ill and at least seven people were known to have died.
In many countries of the South, 80 per cent of all diseases result from people coming into contact with water polluted by human waste. This causes up to 35 000 deaths each day.
Novel Study: The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
We have concluded our Breadwinner novel study. The Breadwinner is the first in a trilogy. Parvana's Journey and Mud City, both by Deborah Ellis, follow the lives of two Afghani girls during and after the US/UK bombing of Afghanistan.
Math: Fractions, Percents, Ratios and Rates
We are approaching the end of this unit. The test will be on Monday, May 5. Please see below for the math homework details.
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 62-66
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 62-69
Next week's ID test (May 1) will be on Birds #9 and Africa #37-42 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 308-309, 312-313
Website of the Week: Surrey's Environmental Extravaganza
The Environmental Extravaganza is a chance for
you to get involved in Surrey's natural environment.
Events and programs are happening throughout
Surrey and the surrounding community from Earth
Day (April 19th) to World Ocean Day (June 8th).
This award-winning program for Environmental
Leadership is a chance for community groups,
organizations and volunteers to come together
and present a 7-week series of educational and
inspirational events and programs, all of which are
FREE!
With over 70 FREE events there is something for
everyone, so bring yourself, your family or your whole
neighbourhood!
In three easy steps you could be entered to win a $250
gift card or one of two $125 gift cards to Guildford Town
Centre, here's how...
1. Pick up a passport or download it off of our website
2. Get it stamped at 3 Environmental Extravaganza events
3. Take it to any one of the drop-off locations by June
16th, 2008 to be entered into the prize draw
Passports can be picked up at:
• Any Environmental Extravaganza event
• Surrey Public Libraries
• Surrey Recreation Centres
• Surrey City Hall
• Guildford Town Centre –
Customer Service (Passport Contest sponsor)
Surrey's 11th annual
Environmental Extravaganza!
604.501.5121 | www.naturematters.surrey.ca
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
Here are some more springtime events:
Junkology
Monday, April 28th | 7 – 8:30pm
What do a whale, a helicopter and a hat have in common? They can all be made from stuff we throw out! Join Dr. Recycle for this fun-filled 'workshop' where kids and adults alike can create usable treasure from everyday trash. Pre-registration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve a spot at this entertaining 'workshop'; children under five must be accompanied by an adult.
Bear Creek Pavilion in Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Green Timbers Plant Walk
Tuesday, April 29th | 6-7:30pm
Bring the family and enjoy a guided walk through Green Timbers Urban Forest. Learn to identify common plants and their past and present uses as we explore wetland, meadow and forest ecosystems.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St and 144 St)
Hosted by: Green Timbers Heritage Society
The Coyote Zone
Wednesday, April 30th | 7-9pm
Did you know that there are between 2000 and 3000 coyotes that live in the Lower Mainland? Come learn how and why coyotes have gone urban in cities across North America while exploring the coyote zone: the interface between park, alleyway and backyard. We may even spot a coyote!
Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: Stanley Park Ecology Society
May
Green Club Nature Walk at Surrey Lake Park
Saturday, May 3rd | 3-5pm
Surrey Lake Park (152 St, north of 72 Ave – must be accessed heading North on 152 St)
Hosted by: The Green Club
Arbor Day Celebration
Saturday, May 3rd | 10am – 2pm
Celebrate trees by coming out and planting a tree with neighbours and friends! The first 150 tree planters will get a hot dog and drink, so come early and plant lots of trees! Dogwood trees will be for sale - a great deal and addition for your yard!
Unwin Park (68 Ave & 133 St)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
The Pesticide Connection to Cancer:
How You Can Protect Your Health
by Dr. Teresa Clarke
Saturday, May 3rd | 10:30am – 12pm
Are you concerned about the effects of pesticides on health and the environment? Want to know what all the fuss is about? Join us to learn from the experts and discover ways to reduce or eliminate pesticides. Pre-registrations is required, Please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this informative workshop.
Semiahmoo Library (18 Ave & 152 St)
Hosted by: Surrey/White Rock Pesticide-Free Coalition and Canadian
Cancer Society
Darts Hill Garden Park – Spring Open House
Saturday, May 3rd | 10am – 4pm
The public are invited to walk through the fabulous Darts Hill Garden Park. Enjoy guided garden tours at 11:30am and 1pm and a bonus guided bird walk with local naturalist Lynn Pollard to learn about the birds that call this spectacular garden home. Parking is available on site. Sorry, no pets. Most trails are wheelchair/scooter accessible.
Darts Hill Garden Park (16th Ave at 170th St)
Hosted by: Darts Hill Garden Conservancy Trust Society
Marine Creature Discovery & Beach Hero Launch
Sunday, May 4th | 11am – 2pm
Come and explore the amazing marine life of the inter-tidal zone! Join us for a naturalist-led walk at 11am followed by a talk with marine images by naturalist Lynn Pollard, and get crafty with Cat, our Beach Hero Interpreter! Bring a lunch and dress for the weather. Pre-registration is required, please email Cat at cat@birdsonthebay.ca or call 604.536.3552 to reserve your spot at this great event!
Beecher Place (Beecher St & Ohara Lane)
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Salmon Send-off
Sunday, May 4th | 11am – 3pm
Join us for some fishy fun and help celebrate 20 years of improving salmon returns in the Serpentine River! Release salmon fry into the Serpentine River, enjoy a atchery tour, take part in children's activities and experience a walk through a iverine habitat.
Tynehead Hatchery at Tynehead Regional Park (96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Serpentine Enhancement Society & Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
Green Timbers Plant Walk
Tuesday, May 6th | 6-7:30pm
Bring the family and enjoy a guided walk through Green Timbers Urban Forest. Learn to identify common plants and their past and present uses as we explore wetland, meadow and forest ecosystems.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St.)
Hosted by: Green Timbers Heritage Society
Owl Prowl
Tuesday, May 7th | 7 – 8:30pm
Come out, prowl about, have a hoot and see Who! Who! Who! lives in the park at night. Ted Williams from OWL Rehabilitation Society will introduce live owls and lead a guided walk into the park in search of owls. Everyone is welcome. Pre-registration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fantastic presentation and guided walk.
Bear Creek Pavilion at Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: OWL Rehabilitation Society, Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Wild About Gardening
Thursday, May 8th | 4:30 – 6pm
Explore the benefits of native plants, make a plantable craft and create a wildlife garden all in one afternoon! Join SNA P to learn about wildlife gardening tips and tools that you can use at home with this hands-on family program! Preregistration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fun-filled opportunity.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St.)
Hosted by: Surrey's Natural Areas Partnership (SNAP)
Discover Burns Bog
Saturday, May 10th | 10am – 12pm
What do mummies, stopping global warming and a tractor from 1972 have to do with Burns Bog? Take a tour and find out! Discover what the "Lungs of the Lower Mainland" have to offer. Wear appropriate clothing, including closed-toe shoes. No umbrellas please, and bring a bottle of water. Pre-registration is required, please email info@burnsbog.org or call 604.572.0373 to reserve your spot for this great tour!
The Delta Nature Reserve located at Planet Ice (10388 Nordel Court, Delta)
Hosted by: Burns Bog Conservation Society
Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest Habitat Enhancement
Saturday, May 10th | 10am
Come out, join your neighbours and help restore the urban forest to its natural state by removing invasive plants and planting native plants.
Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest (parking lot off of 24 Ave)
Hosted by: Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society
Greening the Serpentine Greenway
Saturday, May 10th | 12-4pm
Join us for live music and performances from the community and learn about ways in which you can 'Green' the Serpentine Greenway. Come and be a part of the celebration connecting nature with culture! Get involved with tree planting and invasive species removal or just visit environmental displays to learn more about what you can do to beautify your City.
Serpentine Greenway (125 St at 68 Ave)
Hosted by: Evergreen
Tynehead Regional Park Habitat Enhancement
Sunday, May 11 | 10am – 1pm
Join us for a day of fun to improve the habitat in Tynehead Regional Park. Drinks and light snacks will be provided; please dress appropriately as we will be getting dirty removing invasive plants, which are threatening the park. Pre-registration is required for this event, please email Andrew at andrew@evergreen.ca to reserve your spot in this fun-filled day.
Tynehead Regional Park (Serpentine Hollow parking lot - 96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Evergreen and Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
The Coyote Zone
Wednesday, May 14th | 7-9pm
Did you know that there are between 2000 and 3000 coyotes that live in the Lower Mainland? Come learn how and why coyotes have gone urban in cities across North America while exploring the coyote zone: the interface between park, alleyway and backyard. We may even spot a coyote!
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St. )
Hosted by: Stanley Park Ecology Society
Junkology
Saturday, May 17th | 10 – 11:30am
What do a whale, a helicopter and a hat have in common? They can all be made from stuff we throw out! Join Dr. Recycle for this fun-filled 'workshop' where kids and adults of all ages can create usable treasure from everyday trash.
Pre-registration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve a spot at this entertaining 'workshop'; children under five must be accompanied by an adult.
Bear Creek Pavilion at Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Birdwatch 2008
Monday, May 19th | 8– 11:30am
Who lives in your neighbourhood? Join in a bird count on the Little Campbell River to learn what magnificent birds call this area home, or are stopping over to take a rest from a long flight. No experience necessary; bring binoculars if you have them.
A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St.)
Hosted by: A Rocha Canada
Fine Feathered Friends
Monday, May 19th | 1-4pm
Flutter in for fun, hands-on family activities with music and refreshments. Check out our gifts and native plant sale!
A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St)
Hosted by: A Rocha Canada
Shorekeepers Training Workshop
Friday, May 23rd (6:30 – 10pm)
Saturday, May 24th (10am – 3pm)
Sunday, May 25th (10:30am – 3:30pm)
Have you ever wondered how barnacles survive during low-tide or what animals make the holes in the sand? Train to be a Shorekeeper and learn the answers to these riddles, and to take an active role in the monitoring of your local marine habitats! Please bring a lunch and wear appropriate clothing. Pre-registration is required, so please call 604.536.3552 to reserve your spot at this unique training opportunity. No experience necessary!
Friday meet at the A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St)
Saturday and Sunday meet at the West Beach Boat Ramp (14500 Marine
Drive, White Rock)
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Mini-beast Madness
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 2pm
Creatures lurk beneath! Join the Little Campbell Watershed Society to take a peak into the hidden life of aquatic bugs that live in our local streams. Take a closer look with our microscope to see how wild these little beasts are.
Semiahmoo Fish and Game Club Hatchery (1284 - 184 St)
Hosted by: The Little Campbell Watershed Society
Discover Burns Bog
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 12pm
What do mummies, stopping global warming and a tractor from 1972 have to do with Burns Bog? Take a tour and find out! Discover what the "Lungs of the Lower Mainland" have to offer. Wear appropriate clothing, including closed-toe shoes. No umbrellas please, and bring a bottle of water. Pre-registration is required,
please email info@burnsbog.org or call 604.572.0373 to reserve your spot for this great tour!
The Delta Nature Reserve located at Planet Ice (10388 Nordel Court, Delta)
Hosted by: Burns Bog Conservation Society
Tynehead Plant Walk
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 12pm
Enjoy a walk along the Serpentine Loop at Tynehead Regional Park. Discover the native plants that bloom in the spring. Find out which plants are edible, which are used for crafts and which were used medicinally. Dress for the weather and meet in the parking area at the 96th Ave entrance. Pre-registration is required, please call Metro Vancouver at 604.432.6359 to reserve your spot at this enlightening guided walk.
Tynehead Regional Park (96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
Sustainable Gardening
Saturday, May 24th | 11am – 1pm
Join us at Stewart Farm's heritage gardens and learn to garden in harmony with nature. Discover labour-saving techniques that help reduce watering and weeding.
Explore ways to minimize the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Learn about composting and the benefits of creating healthy, living soil. Pre-registration is required for this event, please call 604.592.6956 to reserve your spot at this unique gardening workshop.
Historic Stewart Farm in Elgin Heritage Park (Crescent Road west of 135 Ave)
Hosted by: Historic Stewart Farm
Surrey Lake Birding Walk
Saturday, May 24th | 9 - 11am
Discover some of the diverse bird life and improve your ID skills on this guided birding walk with naturalist Lynn Pollard. Bring binoculars if you have them and please dress for the weather.
Surrey Lake Park (152 St, north of 72 Ave – must be accessed heading North on 152 St)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks & Lynn Pollard
Amazing Amphibians!
Tuesday, May 27th | 6:30 - 8pm
From slimy salamanders to tiny tree frogs, there is so much amphibian life in Green Timbers Urban Forest! Join SNA P as they take you on an interactive journey through a dynamic west coast amphibian habitat! Pre-registration is required,
please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fun-filled opportunity.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St)
Hosted by: Surrey's Natural Areas Partnership (SNAP)
Walk the Semiahmoo Trail
Tuesday, May 27th & Wednesday, May 28th | 6:30 – 7:30pm
Come and explore a portion of the historic Semiahmoo Trail; experts will be on hand to lead a walk and explain the trail's history and natural heritage.
Meet at the trail entrance (23A Ave between 151 St and 152 St)
Hosted by: Friends of Semiahmoo Heritage Trail
Beach Hero Marine Interpretive Walks
Explore the inter-tidal zone for amazing animals and plants with our Marine Interpreter; all ages welcome! Free stickers, tattoos and activity books for all Beach Heroes!
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Saturday, May 10 (2:30pm) White Rock, foot of pier
Saturday, May 17th (11am) White Rock, foot of pier
Saturday, May 24th (1:30pm) Beecher Place, Crescent Beach
Saturday, May 31st (9:30am) Beecher Place, Crescent Beach
Saturday, June 7th (2pm) White Rock, foot of pier.
No registration is required, just show up! For more info contact Cat at
604.536.3552 or cat@birdsonthebay.ca
Learn to Fish
Join us at Green Timbers Urban Forest for a fun, educational fishing lesson!This program is for youth under 16, but parent participation is encouraged. Includes hands-on instruction as well as fishing on Green Timbers Lake! All the equipment and tackle is provided. Pre-registration is required, please call the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery Visitor Ctr at 604.504.4716 to reserve your spot!
Green Timbers Urban Forest – meet at the lake
Hosted by: Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC
Thursday, May 1st (6-8pm)
Saturday, May 10 (10am - 12pm)
Thursday, May 15th (6 - 8pm)
Thursday, May 22nd (6 - 8pm)
Saturday, May 31st (10am - 12pm)
Sunnyside Acres Guided Walk
Learn about your local forest environment, its history and management at Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest. Bring binoculars and try to spot some of the 71 bird species that occur here and identify some of the native plants that make this Urban Forest their home. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, this walk will go rain or shine.
Meet at the parking lot off of 24 Avenue in the Urban Forest
Hosted by: Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society
Saturday, April 26th (8 – 9am)
Sunday, May 4th (6:30 – 7:30pm)
Saturday, May 17th (8 – 9am)
Sunday, May 25th (6:30-7:30pm)
Waste Not Want Not
April 12 - June 15 (Saturdays and Sundays only) | 12 - 4pm
Come and learn about the concept of 'thrift' and the origins of the 3 R's - Reduce, reuse and Recycle! Check out ways to convert garbage into treasures, traditional methods of garden composting and how technologies have changed in objects through the use of everyday materials. Historical examples will show how farmers recycled from the 1900's to present days.
Stewart Hall at Elgin Heritage Farm ( Crescent Road west of 135 Ave.)
Hosted by: Historic Stewart Farm
Wilderness Watch Walkabout
Find out what the Wilderness Watch program is all about. Visit the display booth and then enjoy a guided walk in Blackie Spit Park!
Blackie Spit Park
Hosted by: BC Wildlife Federation
Saturday, May 3rd (10am - 2pm)
Saturday, May 17th (10am – 2pm)
Saturday, May 31st (10am – 2pm)
Important Dates in 2008
April 21-25 Walk and Wheel to School Week
April 29 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
April 22nd was Earth Day and we celebrated it by participating in a school-wide rotation. The students participated in various eco-related activities around the school.
'Walk and Wheel to School' Week was a great success. The teachers kept track of the number of students walking or wheeling (biking or skateboarding) to school each day. Our students calculated the percentages for each classroom and displaying them in bar graph form for all in the school to see. Our school averaged over 70% walkers and wheelers each day! Congratulations to all the students! Exercise and cleaner air, what could be better!
We are still collecting dead batteries for recycling. A recent report said certain batteries — including lead-acid, lithium, nickel-cadmium, silver oxide and mercury — contain toxic heavy metals. Let's keep them out of the water table by keeping them out of the trash.
The following is a list of Environmental Extravaganza activities happening this weekend in Surrey:
Planet Earth Day
Saturday, April 26th | 1-4pm
Too much junk, too many plastic bags or just too much laundry lint? Find out how to turn trash into treasures that you can reuse; take home your own woven plastic coasters and more!
Surrey Museum (17710 56A Avenue)
Hosted by: Surrey Museum
Cycle Clubs Information Fair
Saturday, April 26th | 1 - 4pm
As part of Earth Month, the Environmental Extravaganza and to commemorate the last day of the Museum's Bike Exhibit, find out how to get active with local cycle clubs as you meet club members from a variety of organizations!
Surrey Museum (17710 56A Avenue)
Hosted by: Surrey Museum
Coast to Coast by Cycle
Saturday, April 26th | 1 – 2pm
Join cycling activist Marion Orser as she recounts her journey from Prince Rupert to Halifax by bike in celebration of a birthday milestone. Her 80-day cycling trip illustrates the challenges as well as the rewards as she discovered our country's wonders.
Surrey Museum (17710 56A Ave)
Hosted by: Surrey Museum
Darts Hill Garden Park – Spring Open House and Plant Sale
Saturday, April 26th | 10am – 4pm
The public are invited to walk through the fabulous Darts Hill Garden Park, one of the most outstanding plantsman's gardens in Western Canada. Spring is a time when this garden shows off the colours and fragrances of flowering shrubs, perennials and the largest selection of tree species in the Pacific Northwest. Parking is available on site. Sorry, no pets. Most trails are wheelchair/scooter accessible. Guided tours will take place at 11:30am and 1pm.
Darts Hill Garden Park (16th Ave at 170th St)
Hosted by: Darts Hill Garden Conservancy Trust Society
Surrey Public Library – Community Clean-up
Saturday, April 26th | 1 – 2pm
Make a difference in your community and get involved with this community clean-up. Meet at one of the 9 branches of the Surrey Public Library to help do your part in making our communities shine. The City will provide the equipment and supplies, and volunteers will share some energy and time to help improve their neighbourhoods. Refreshments will be served afterwards.
Hosted by: Surrey Public Library
Surrey's Early Years Festival
Saturday, April 26th | 11-3pm
For parents and children, ages 0-6 years old! Join us for a day of interactive activities, prizes, entertainment, resource booths and much more. Learn about science and nature and the different resources around you!
North Surrey Recreation Centre (102 Ave & City Parkway)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture, and partners
Salmon Round-up
Saturday, April 26th | 9-11am
Visit a salmon pond to help catch Coho salmon! Come to our hatchery Open House (next listing) to see where they end up! Since this will be held outdoors, please be prepared by wearing rubber boots and old clothes.
Elgin Creek (14391 Crescent Road)
Hosted by: RESCUE & Nicomekl Enhancement Society
Nicomekl Enhancement Society Open House and Fish Release
Saturday, April 26th | 11am – 2pm
Help release Coho and Chinook salmon fry and some larger smolts. Learn something new with our educational tours and activities.
Hatchery (5263 – 232 Street, Langley)
Social Studies: Planning for the Future
Here are a few items we have been discussing around the topic of water sustainability:
Most of England receives as much rain as British Columbia. Yet the UN predicts England will have water shortages by the year 2050 because of population growth and the way people use water.
In May 2000, the water supply in the town of Walkerton in Ontario was contaminated with a deadly bacteria called e-coli. Over 2000 people became ill and at least seven people were known to have died.
In many countries of the South, 80 per cent of all diseases result from people coming into contact with water polluted by human waste. This causes up to 35 000 deaths each day.
Novel Study: The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
We have concluded our Breadwinner novel study. The Breadwinner is the first in a trilogy. Parvana's Journey and Mud City, both by Deborah Ellis, follow the lives of two Afghani girls during and after the US/UK bombing of Afghanistan.
Math: Fractions, Percents, Ratios and Rates
We are approaching the end of this unit. The test will be on Monday, May 5. Please see below for the math homework details.
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 62-66
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 62-69
Next week's ID test (May 1) will be on Birds #9 and Africa #37-42 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 308-309, 312-313
Website of the Week: Surrey's Environmental Extravaganza
The Environmental Extravaganza is a chance for
you to get involved in Surrey's natural environment.
Events and programs are happening throughout
Surrey and the surrounding community from Earth
Day (April 19th) to World Ocean Day (June 8th).
This award-winning program for Environmental
Leadership is a chance for community groups,
organizations and volunteers to come together
and present a 7-week series of educational and
inspirational events and programs, all of which are
FREE!
With over 70 FREE events there is something for
everyone, so bring yourself, your family or your whole
neighbourhood!
In three easy steps you could be entered to win a $250
gift card or one of two $125 gift cards to Guildford Town
Centre, here's how...
1. Pick up a passport or download it off of our website
2. Get it stamped at 3 Environmental Extravaganza events
3. Take it to any one of the drop-off locations by June
16th, 2008 to be entered into the prize draw
Passports can be picked up at:
• Any Environmental Extravaganza event
• Surrey Public Libraries
• Surrey Recreation Centres
• Surrey City Hall
• Guildford Town Centre –
Customer Service (Passport Contest sponsor)
Surrey's 11th annual
Environmental Extravaganza!
604.501.5121 | www.naturematters.surrey.ca
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
Here are some more springtime events:
Junkology
Monday, April 28th | 7 – 8:30pm
What do a whale, a helicopter and a hat have in common? They can all be made from stuff we throw out! Join Dr. Recycle for this fun-filled 'workshop' where kids and adults alike can create usable treasure from everyday trash. Pre-registration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve a spot at this entertaining 'workshop'; children under five must be accompanied by an adult.
Bear Creek Pavilion in Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Green Timbers Plant Walk
Tuesday, April 29th | 6-7:30pm
Bring the family and enjoy a guided walk through Green Timbers Urban Forest. Learn to identify common plants and their past and present uses as we explore wetland, meadow and forest ecosystems.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St and 144 St)
Hosted by: Green Timbers Heritage Society
The Coyote Zone
Wednesday, April 30th | 7-9pm
Did you know that there are between 2000 and 3000 coyotes that live in the Lower Mainland? Come learn how and why coyotes have gone urban in cities across North America while exploring the coyote zone: the interface between park, alleyway and backyard. We may even spot a coyote!
Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: Stanley Park Ecology Society
May
Green Club Nature Walk at Surrey Lake Park
Saturday, May 3rd | 3-5pm
Surrey Lake Park (152 St, north of 72 Ave – must be accessed heading North on 152 St)
Hosted by: The Green Club
Arbor Day Celebration
Saturday, May 3rd | 10am – 2pm
Celebrate trees by coming out and planting a tree with neighbours and friends! The first 150 tree planters will get a hot dog and drink, so come early and plant lots of trees! Dogwood trees will be for sale - a great deal and addition for your yard!
Unwin Park (68 Ave & 133 St)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
The Pesticide Connection to Cancer:
How You Can Protect Your Health
by Dr. Teresa Clarke
Saturday, May 3rd | 10:30am – 12pm
Are you concerned about the effects of pesticides on health and the environment? Want to know what all the fuss is about? Join us to learn from the experts and discover ways to reduce or eliminate pesticides. Pre-registrations is required, Please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this informative workshop.
Semiahmoo Library (18 Ave & 152 St)
Hosted by: Surrey/White Rock Pesticide-Free Coalition and Canadian
Cancer Society
Darts Hill Garden Park – Spring Open House
Saturday, May 3rd | 10am – 4pm
The public are invited to walk through the fabulous Darts Hill Garden Park. Enjoy guided garden tours at 11:30am and 1pm and a bonus guided bird walk with local naturalist Lynn Pollard to learn about the birds that call this spectacular garden home. Parking is available on site. Sorry, no pets. Most trails are wheelchair/scooter accessible.
Darts Hill Garden Park (16th Ave at 170th St)
Hosted by: Darts Hill Garden Conservancy Trust Society
Marine Creature Discovery & Beach Hero Launch
Sunday, May 4th | 11am – 2pm
Come and explore the amazing marine life of the inter-tidal zone! Join us for a naturalist-led walk at 11am followed by a talk with marine images by naturalist Lynn Pollard, and get crafty with Cat, our Beach Hero Interpreter! Bring a lunch and dress for the weather. Pre-registration is required, please email Cat at cat@birdsonthebay.ca or call 604.536.3552 to reserve your spot at this great event!
Beecher Place (Beecher St & Ohara Lane)
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Salmon Send-off
Sunday, May 4th | 11am – 3pm
Join us for some fishy fun and help celebrate 20 years of improving salmon returns in the Serpentine River! Release salmon fry into the Serpentine River, enjoy a atchery tour, take part in children's activities and experience a walk through a iverine habitat.
Tynehead Hatchery at Tynehead Regional Park (96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Serpentine Enhancement Society & Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
Green Timbers Plant Walk
Tuesday, May 6th | 6-7:30pm
Bring the family and enjoy a guided walk through Green Timbers Urban Forest. Learn to identify common plants and their past and present uses as we explore wetland, meadow and forest ecosystems.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St.)
Hosted by: Green Timbers Heritage Society
Owl Prowl
Tuesday, May 7th | 7 – 8:30pm
Come out, prowl about, have a hoot and see Who! Who! Who! lives in the park at night. Ted Williams from OWL Rehabilitation Society will introduce live owls and lead a guided walk into the park in search of owls. Everyone is welcome. Pre-registration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fantastic presentation and guided walk.
Bear Creek Pavilion at Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: OWL Rehabilitation Society, Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Wild About Gardening
Thursday, May 8th | 4:30 – 6pm
Explore the benefits of native plants, make a plantable craft and create a wildlife garden all in one afternoon! Join SNA P to learn about wildlife gardening tips and tools that you can use at home with this hands-on family program! Preregistration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fun-filled opportunity.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St.)
Hosted by: Surrey's Natural Areas Partnership (SNAP)
Discover Burns Bog
Saturday, May 10th | 10am – 12pm
What do mummies, stopping global warming and a tractor from 1972 have to do with Burns Bog? Take a tour and find out! Discover what the "Lungs of the Lower Mainland" have to offer. Wear appropriate clothing, including closed-toe shoes. No umbrellas please, and bring a bottle of water. Pre-registration is required, please email info@burnsbog.org or call 604.572.0373 to reserve your spot for this great tour!
The Delta Nature Reserve located at Planet Ice (10388 Nordel Court, Delta)
Hosted by: Burns Bog Conservation Society
Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest Habitat Enhancement
Saturday, May 10th | 10am
Come out, join your neighbours and help restore the urban forest to its natural state by removing invasive plants and planting native plants.
Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest (parking lot off of 24 Ave)
Hosted by: Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society
Greening the Serpentine Greenway
Saturday, May 10th | 12-4pm
Join us for live music and performances from the community and learn about ways in which you can 'Green' the Serpentine Greenway. Come and be a part of the celebration connecting nature with culture! Get involved with tree planting and invasive species removal or just visit environmental displays to learn more about what you can do to beautify your City.
Serpentine Greenway (125 St at 68 Ave)
Hosted by: Evergreen
Tynehead Regional Park Habitat Enhancement
Sunday, May 11 | 10am – 1pm
Join us for a day of fun to improve the habitat in Tynehead Regional Park. Drinks and light snacks will be provided; please dress appropriately as we will be getting dirty removing invasive plants, which are threatening the park. Pre-registration is required for this event, please email Andrew at andrew@evergreen.ca to reserve your spot in this fun-filled day.
Tynehead Regional Park (Serpentine Hollow parking lot - 96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Evergreen and Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
The Coyote Zone
Wednesday, May 14th | 7-9pm
Did you know that there are between 2000 and 3000 coyotes that live in the Lower Mainland? Come learn how and why coyotes have gone urban in cities across North America while exploring the coyote zone: the interface between park, alleyway and backyard. We may even spot a coyote!
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St. )
Hosted by: Stanley Park Ecology Society
Junkology
Saturday, May 17th | 10 – 11:30am
What do a whale, a helicopter and a hat have in common? They can all be made from stuff we throw out! Join Dr. Recycle for this fun-filled 'workshop' where kids and adults of all ages can create usable treasure from everyday trash.
Pre-registration is required, please call 604.501.5121 to reserve a spot at this entertaining 'workshop'; children under five must be accompanied by an adult.
Bear Creek Pavilion at Bear Creek Park (88 Ave & King George Hwy)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Birdwatch 2008
Monday, May 19th | 8– 11:30am
Who lives in your neighbourhood? Join in a bird count on the Little Campbell River to learn what magnificent birds call this area home, or are stopping over to take a rest from a long flight. No experience necessary; bring binoculars if you have them.
A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St.)
Hosted by: A Rocha Canada
Fine Feathered Friends
Monday, May 19th | 1-4pm
Flutter in for fun, hands-on family activities with music and refreshments. Check out our gifts and native plant sale!
A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St)
Hosted by: A Rocha Canada
Shorekeepers Training Workshop
Friday, May 23rd (6:30 – 10pm)
Saturday, May 24th (10am – 3pm)
Sunday, May 25th (10:30am – 3:30pm)
Have you ever wondered how barnacles survive during low-tide or what animals make the holes in the sand? Train to be a Shorekeeper and learn the answers to these riddles, and to take an active role in the monitoring of your local marine habitats! Please bring a lunch and wear appropriate clothing. Pre-registration is required, so please call 604.536.3552 to reserve your spot at this unique training opportunity. No experience necessary!
Friday meet at the A Rocha Canada Field Study Centre (512-172nd St)
Saturday and Sunday meet at the West Beach Boat Ramp (14500 Marine
Drive, White Rock)
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Mini-beast Madness
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 2pm
Creatures lurk beneath! Join the Little Campbell Watershed Society to take a peak into the hidden life of aquatic bugs that live in our local streams. Take a closer look with our microscope to see how wild these little beasts are.
Semiahmoo Fish and Game Club Hatchery (1284 - 184 St)
Hosted by: The Little Campbell Watershed Society
Discover Burns Bog
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 12pm
What do mummies, stopping global warming and a tractor from 1972 have to do with Burns Bog? Take a tour and find out! Discover what the "Lungs of the Lower Mainland" have to offer. Wear appropriate clothing, including closed-toe shoes. No umbrellas please, and bring a bottle of water. Pre-registration is required,
please email info@burnsbog.org or call 604.572.0373 to reserve your spot for this great tour!
The Delta Nature Reserve located at Planet Ice (10388 Nordel Court, Delta)
Hosted by: Burns Bog Conservation Society
Tynehead Plant Walk
Saturday, May 24th | 10am – 12pm
Enjoy a walk along the Serpentine Loop at Tynehead Regional Park. Discover the native plants that bloom in the spring. Find out which plants are edible, which are used for crafts and which were used medicinally. Dress for the weather and meet in the parking area at the 96th Ave entrance. Pre-registration is required, please call Metro Vancouver at 604.432.6359 to reserve your spot at this enlightening guided walk.
Tynehead Regional Park (96 Ave & 168 St)
Hosted by: Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
Sustainable Gardening
Saturday, May 24th | 11am – 1pm
Join us at Stewart Farm's heritage gardens and learn to garden in harmony with nature. Discover labour-saving techniques that help reduce watering and weeding.
Explore ways to minimize the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Learn about composting and the benefits of creating healthy, living soil. Pre-registration is required for this event, please call 604.592.6956 to reserve your spot at this unique gardening workshop.
Historic Stewart Farm in Elgin Heritage Park (Crescent Road west of 135 Ave)
Hosted by: Historic Stewart Farm
Surrey Lake Birding Walk
Saturday, May 24th | 9 - 11am
Discover some of the diverse bird life and improve your ID skills on this guided birding walk with naturalist Lynn Pollard. Bring binoculars if you have them and please dress for the weather.
Surrey Lake Park (152 St, north of 72 Ave – must be accessed heading North on 152 St)
Hosted by: Surrey Parks & Lynn Pollard
Amazing Amphibians!
Tuesday, May 27th | 6:30 - 8pm
From slimy salamanders to tiny tree frogs, there is so much amphibian life in Green Timbers Urban Forest! Join SNA P as they take you on an interactive journey through a dynamic west coast amphibian habitat! Pre-registration is required,
please call 604.501.5121 to reserve your spot at this fun-filled opportunity.
Green Timbers Urban Forest (parking lot on 100 Ave between 148 St. and 144 St)
Hosted by: Surrey's Natural Areas Partnership (SNAP)
Walk the Semiahmoo Trail
Tuesday, May 27th & Wednesday, May 28th | 6:30 – 7:30pm
Come and explore a portion of the historic Semiahmoo Trail; experts will be on hand to lead a walk and explain the trail's history and natural heritage.
Meet at the trail entrance (23A Ave between 151 St and 152 St)
Hosted by: Friends of Semiahmoo Heritage Trail
Beach Hero Marine Interpretive Walks
Explore the inter-tidal zone for amazing animals and plants with our Marine Interpreter; all ages welcome! Free stickers, tattoos and activity books for all Beach Heroes!
Hosted by: The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society
Saturday, May 10 (2:30pm) White Rock, foot of pier
Saturday, May 17th (11am) White Rock, foot of pier
Saturday, May 24th (1:30pm) Beecher Place, Crescent Beach
Saturday, May 31st (9:30am) Beecher Place, Crescent Beach
Saturday, June 7th (2pm) White Rock, foot of pier.
No registration is required, just show up! For more info contact Cat at
604.536.3552 or cat@birdsonthebay.ca
Learn to Fish
Join us at Green Timbers Urban Forest for a fun, educational fishing lesson!This program is for youth under 16, but parent participation is encouraged. Includes hands-on instruction as well as fishing on Green Timbers Lake! All the equipment and tackle is provided. Pre-registration is required, please call the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery Visitor Ctr at 604.504.4716 to reserve your spot!
Green Timbers Urban Forest – meet at the lake
Hosted by: Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC
Thursday, May 1st (6-8pm)
Saturday, May 10 (10am - 12pm)
Thursday, May 15th (6 - 8pm)
Thursday, May 22nd (6 - 8pm)
Saturday, May 31st (10am - 12pm)
Sunnyside Acres Guided Walk
Learn about your local forest environment, its history and management at Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest. Bring binoculars and try to spot some of the 71 bird species that occur here and identify some of the native plants that make this Urban Forest their home. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, this walk will go rain or shine.
Meet at the parking lot off of 24 Avenue in the Urban Forest
Hosted by: Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society
Saturday, April 26th (8 – 9am)
Sunday, May 4th (6:30 – 7:30pm)
Saturday, May 17th (8 – 9am)
Sunday, May 25th (6:30-7:30pm)
Waste Not Want Not
April 12 - June 15 (Saturdays and Sundays only) | 12 - 4pm
Come and learn about the concept of 'thrift' and the origins of the 3 R's - Reduce, reuse and Recycle! Check out ways to convert garbage into treasures, traditional methods of garden composting and how technologies have changed in objects through the use of everyday materials. Historical examples will show how farmers recycled from the 1900's to present days.
Stewart Hall at Elgin Heritage Farm ( Crescent Road west of 135 Ave.)
Hosted by: Historic Stewart Farm
Wilderness Watch Walkabout
Find out what the Wilderness Watch program is all about. Visit the display booth and then enjoy a guided walk in Blackie Spit Park!
Blackie Spit Park
Hosted by: BC Wildlife Federation
Saturday, May 3rd (10am - 2pm)
Saturday, May 17th (10am – 2pm)
Saturday, May 31st (10am – 2pm)
Important Dates in 2008
April 21-25 Walk and Wheel to School Week
April 29 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Surrey's Biggest Eco-Event - April 19 at Bear Creek Park; 'Walk and Wheel To School' Week April 21-25; David Suzuki's Nature Challenge
Dear Parents and Adults at Home,
April 22nd is Earth Day!
Surrey's biggest eco-event of the year is this Saturday, April 19th at Bear Creek Park! Check out the details for this and the many other free events around the city during Surrey's Environmental Extravaganza - April 19th - June 8.
'Walk and Wheel to School' Week - April 21st to 25th
The students are orchestrating a 'Walk and Wheel to School' Week throughout our community. The teachers will be keeping track of the number of students walking or wheeling (biking or skateboarding) to school each day during the week of April 21st to April 25th. Our students will be calculating the percentages for each classroom and displaying them in bar graph form for all in the school to see.
We are also collecting dead batteries for recycling. A recent report said certain batteries — including lead-acid, lithium, nickel-cadmium, silver oxide and mercury — contain toxic heavy metals. Let's keep them out of the water table by keeping them out of the trash.
There are many ways we can all make a difference! The following is a clip from the Website of the Week: David Suzuki's Nature Challenge.
We've done the research. These are the most effective ways to conserve nature and improve the quality of life everywhere on earth (these simple changes can make a big difference):
Transportation: Boy do we get around – cars, trucks, buses, boats, planes! All that transportation accounts for almost half of noxious air pollution, more than a third of greenhouse gas emissions, one quarter of common air contamination and almost one-fifth of water toxicity. Not surprisingly, cars are the worst offenders – they contribute the most carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, cause urban blight (with all those jammed, ugly freeways) and pollute our water and air through exhaust and road runoff. Yuck!
We have an epidemic of respiratory ailments such as asthma in this country – all aggravated by contaminated air – and at least 16,000 premature deaths per year directly linked to air pollution.
No one's asking you to stay home and lock yourself in a closet. Get out in the world! Just try to lighten your footprint. Here's how.
Go here to fuel up on more information.
Food: There are so many humans on the planet, simply feeding ourselves has led to all kinds of environmental havoc – air and water pollution, loss of soil and reduced biodiversity. It's time to clean up our act.
We don't all need to become overnight vegans or live the 100 Mile Diet (although those are great ideas). But we can have a huge effect on climate change by simply changing a few of our food habits. Here's how.
Hungry for more information? Check this out.
Energy: You've probably heard that Canada is the largest consumer of energy in the world on a per capita basis, and the second largest producer of greenhouse gases (after the United States). We have just over 30 million people, but we use as much energy as the entire continent of Africa, home to 700 million!
Canadians have home heating issues that most Africans don't, but we have to think of the whole planet as one big community and do our part. Wasting energy hurts nature and your wallet because energy efficiency means lower bills as well as less pollution. (Where will you spend the money you save?) Here's how.
Plug in here for more energy facts.
Public Action: As individuals, we can green our homes, schools and offices and have a huge impact. But we also need policy movers and shakers to step up to the plate – with incentives for fuel efficient technologies, legislation banning toxic chemicals and strategies to protect endangered species (to name just a few things).
You can make a difference at so many levels in your community – by hosting meetings, organizing letter writing campaigns to legislators and media outlets, and drumming up support for action on all levels. Here's how.
Social Studies: Planning for the Future
In preparation for Earth Day and 'Walk and Wheel to School' Week, the students have begun work on an environmental awareness ad campaign. Individually or in small groups, the students have chosen a simple message around an environmentally-minded issue. They are designing an advertisement/poster based upon the following criteria:
1. Does the ad hook the viewer?
2. Is the message clear and simple?
3. Are the images and words large enough to view from a distance?
4. Is the message vivid and bright?
5. Is there evidence of planning?
6. Is this the students' best effort?
Novel Study: The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
We are finishing up a series of post-novel activities and group discussions. These activities and discussion topics can be found on the website http://www.hawaii.edu/hga/GeoMatters/hstapresent/Breadwinner/Breadwinner.htm. Or you can follow links on my website, www.linktoschool.blogspot.com. Under Novel Studies, click on the link, Breadwinner Novel Study.
Math: Fractions, Percents, Ratios and Rates
We are approaching the end of this unit. The test should be some time during the second week of May. I will keep you posted. Please see below for the math homework details.
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 57-61
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 52-61
Next Friday's ID test (April 25) will be on Birds #8 and Africa #31-36 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 296-297, 300-301, 304-305
Website of the Week: David Suzuki's Nature Challenge
These are the most effective ways to conserve nature and improve the quality of life everywhere on earth (these simple changes can make a big difference).
http://www.davidsuzuki.org/NatureChallenge/
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
Important Dates in 2008
April 17 Masabe Cultural Company Performance at the Bell Centre - Buses depart at 9:30 am and will arrive back by 12:30
April 21-25 Walk and Wheel to School Week
April 21 Cultural Event - Comaigri VniDansi @ 1:00 pm
April 22 Earth Day - Classes will Rotate from teacher to teacher participating in various eco-conscious activities
April 23 Interim Reports go home
April 29 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
April 22nd is Earth Day!
Surrey's biggest eco-event of the year is this Saturday, April 19th at Bear Creek Park! Check out the details for this and the many other free events around the city during Surrey's Environmental Extravaganza - April 19th - June 8.
'Walk and Wheel to School' Week - April 21st to 25th
The students are orchestrating a 'Walk and Wheel to School' Week throughout our community. The teachers will be keeping track of the number of students walking or wheeling (biking or skateboarding) to school each day during the week of April 21st to April 25th. Our students will be calculating the percentages for each classroom and displaying them in bar graph form for all in the school to see.
We are also collecting dead batteries for recycling. A recent report said certain batteries — including lead-acid, lithium, nickel-cadmium, silver oxide and mercury — contain toxic heavy metals. Let's keep them out of the water table by keeping them out of the trash.
There are many ways we can all make a difference! The following is a clip from the Website of the Week: David Suzuki's Nature Challenge.
We've done the research. These are the most effective ways to conserve nature and improve the quality of life everywhere on earth (these simple changes can make a big difference):
Transportation: Boy do we get around – cars, trucks, buses, boats, planes! All that transportation accounts for almost half of noxious air pollution, more than a third of greenhouse gas emissions, one quarter of common air contamination and almost one-fifth of water toxicity. Not surprisingly, cars are the worst offenders – they contribute the most carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, cause urban blight (with all those jammed, ugly freeways) and pollute our water and air through exhaust and road runoff. Yuck!
We have an epidemic of respiratory ailments such as asthma in this country – all aggravated by contaminated air – and at least 16,000 premature deaths per year directly linked to air pollution.
No one's asking you to stay home and lock yourself in a closet. Get out in the world! Just try to lighten your footprint. Here's how.
Go here to fuel up on more information.
Food: There are so many humans on the planet, simply feeding ourselves has led to all kinds of environmental havoc – air and water pollution, loss of soil and reduced biodiversity. It's time to clean up our act.
We don't all need to become overnight vegans or live the 100 Mile Diet (although those are great ideas). But we can have a huge effect on climate change by simply changing a few of our food habits. Here's how.
Hungry for more information? Check this out.
Energy: You've probably heard that Canada is the largest consumer of energy in the world on a per capita basis, and the second largest producer of greenhouse gases (after the United States). We have just over 30 million people, but we use as much energy as the entire continent of Africa, home to 700 million!
Canadians have home heating issues that most Africans don't, but we have to think of the whole planet as one big community and do our part. Wasting energy hurts nature and your wallet because energy efficiency means lower bills as well as less pollution. (Where will you spend the money you save?) Here's how.
Plug in here for more energy facts.
Public Action: As individuals, we can green our homes, schools and offices and have a huge impact. But we also need policy movers and shakers to step up to the plate – with incentives for fuel efficient technologies, legislation banning toxic chemicals and strategies to protect endangered species (to name just a few things).
You can make a difference at so many levels in your community – by hosting meetings, organizing letter writing campaigns to legislators and media outlets, and drumming up support for action on all levels. Here's how.
Social Studies: Planning for the Future
In preparation for Earth Day and 'Walk and Wheel to School' Week, the students have begun work on an environmental awareness ad campaign. Individually or in small groups, the students have chosen a simple message around an environmentally-minded issue. They are designing an advertisement/poster based upon the following criteria:
1. Does the ad hook the viewer?
2. Is the message clear and simple?
3. Are the images and words large enough to view from a distance?
4. Is the message vivid and bright?
5. Is there evidence of planning?
6. Is this the students' best effort?
Novel Study: The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
We are finishing up a series of post-novel activities and group discussions. These activities and discussion topics can be found on the website http://www.hawaii.edu/hga/GeoMatters/hstapresent/Breadwinner/Breadwinner.htm. Or you can follow links on my website, www.linktoschool.blogspot.com. Under Novel Studies, click on the link, Breadwinner Novel Study.
Math: Fractions, Percents, Ratios and Rates
We are approaching the end of this unit. The test should be some time during the second week of May. I will keep you posted. Please see below for the math homework details.
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 57-61
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 52-61
Next Friday's ID test (April 25) will be on Birds #8 and Africa #31-36 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 296-297, 300-301, 304-305
Website of the Week: David Suzuki's Nature Challenge
These are the most effective ways to conserve nature and improve the quality of life everywhere on earth (these simple changes can make a big difference).
http://www.davidsuzuki.org/NatureChallenge/
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
Important Dates in 2008
April 17 Masabe Cultural Company Performance at the Bell Centre - Buses depart at 9:30 am and will arrive back by 12:30
April 21-25 Walk and Wheel to School Week
April 21 Cultural Event - Comaigri VniDansi @ 1:00 pm
April 22 Earth Day - Classes will Rotate from teacher to teacher participating in various eco-conscious activities
April 23 Interim Reports go home
April 29 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
Planning for the Future; Breadwinner: Post-Novel Activities; Math pp.286-287, 289, 292-293; Read Aloud: The Giver by Lois Lowry
Dear Parents and Adults at Home,
Novel Study: The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
This past week we finished reading The Breadwinner together. We have begun a series of post-novel activities and group discussions. These activities and discussion topics can be found on the website
http://www.hawaii.edu/hga/GeoMatters/hstapresent/Breadwinner/Breadwinner.htm.
Or you can follow links on my website, www.linktoschool.blogspot.com. Under Novel Studies, click on the link, Breadwinner Novel Study.
Social Studies: Planning for the Future
What's going to happen to the earth's natural resources in the future? Will the people of the North and the South be able to get what they need?
If we use our resources carefully now and plan for what we will need in the years to come, the future looks good. This way of managing resources is called sustainable management. In order to manage a resource in a sustainable way, we need to understand it - how it is formed, how we use it, and how we can keep it in good condition.
This is true of all resources, such as trees, soils, minerals, oil and oceans. All of these are important resources in various parts of the world. Fresh water, though, is a resource everyone in every part of the world needs.
In this unit, students will find out what it takes to manage water in a sustainable way and decide for themselves how well Canadians are doing.
Read Aloud Novel: The Giver by Lois Lowry
We have begun reading and discussing the science fiction novel, The Giver. Check out this brief summary:
http://www.mce.k12tn.net/reading17/giver.htm
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 52-56
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 42-51
Next Friday's ID test (April 18) will be on Birds #7 and Africa #25-30 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 286-287, 289, 292-293
Website of the Week: Climate Change: Kids' Site
Games, animation, links and kid-friendly information about Climate Change.
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/kids/
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
Important Dates in 2008
April 21-25 Walk and Wheel to School Week
April 21 Cultural Event - Comaigri VniDansi @ 1:00 pm
April 22 Earth Day - Classes will Rotate from teacher to teacher participating in various eco-conscious activities
April 23 Interim Reports go home
April 29 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
Novel Study: The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
This past week we finished reading The Breadwinner together. We have begun a series of post-novel activities and group discussions. These activities and discussion topics can be found on the website
http://www.hawaii.edu/hga/GeoMatters/hstapresent/Breadwinner/Breadwinner.htm.
Or you can follow links on my website, www.linktoschool.blogspot.com. Under Novel Studies, click on the link, Breadwinner Novel Study.
Social Studies: Planning for the Future
What's going to happen to the earth's natural resources in the future? Will the people of the North and the South be able to get what they need?
If we use our resources carefully now and plan for what we will need in the years to come, the future looks good. This way of managing resources is called sustainable management. In order to manage a resource in a sustainable way, we need to understand it - how it is formed, how we use it, and how we can keep it in good condition.
This is true of all resources, such as trees, soils, minerals, oil and oceans. All of these are important resources in various parts of the world. Fresh water, though, is a resource everyone in every part of the world needs.
In this unit, students will find out what it takes to manage water in a sustainable way and decide for themselves how well Canadians are doing.
Read Aloud Novel: The Giver by Lois Lowry
We have begun reading and discussing the science fiction novel, The Giver. Check out this brief summary:
http://www.mce.k12tn.net/reading17/giver.htm
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 52-56
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 42-51
Next Friday's ID test (April 18) will be on Birds #7 and Africa #25-30 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 286-287, 289, 292-293
Website of the Week: Climate Change: Kids' Site
Games, animation, links and kid-friendly information about Climate Change.
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/kids/
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
Important Dates in 2008
April 21-25 Walk and Wheel to School Week
April 21 Cultural Event - Comaigri VniDansi @ 1:00 pm
April 22 Earth Day - Classes will Rotate from teacher to teacher participating in various eco-conscious activities
April 23 Interim Reports go home
April 29 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Responsibility; zerofootprintkids.com; The Breadwinner; Fractions; Story Podcasts on CD sent home
Dear Parents and Adults at Home,
Our theme for the final term of the year is Responsibility. This past week, the students brainstormed examples of what responsibility means to them. In groups, they categorized each example of responsibility.
Novel Study: The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
Parvana felt the shadow before she saw it, as the man moved between her and the sun. Turning her head, she saw the dark turban that was the uniform of the Taliban. A rifle was slung across his chest as casually as her father's shoulder bag had been slung across hers...
The Talib kept looking down at her. Then he put his hand inside his vest. Keeping his eyes on Parvana, he drew something out of his vest pocket.
Parvana was about to squish her eyes shut and wait to be shot when she saw that the Talib had taken out a letter.
He sat down beside her on the blanket.
"Read this," he said.
Imagine living in a country in which women and girls are not allowed to leave the house without a man. Imagine having to wear clothes that cover every part of your body, including your face, whenever you go out. This was life in the 1990s in Afghanistan, where the Taliban, members of an extreme religious group, ran most of the country.
Deborah Ellis has been to Afghan refugee camps and heard many stories like Parvana's. All the royalties from this book will be donated to Women for Women in Afghanistan, dedicated to the education of Afghan girls in refugee camps in Pakistan.
Mathematics: Your child's class has begun a mathematics unit on fractions, percents, ratios, and rates. In this unit, your child will:
Express fractions in simplest form.
Relate mixed numbers and improper fractions.
Compare and order mixed numbers and fractions.
Explore percents.
Relate percents to fractions and decimals.
Estimate and calculate percents.
Use ratios for part-to-part and part-to-whole comparisons.
Explore equivalent ratios.
Explore rates.
Fractions, percents, ratios, and rates are used daily in many different situations. Encourage your child to find examples in the world outside the classroom. For example, the advertising sections of the newspapers is one place to find fractions and percents. Ask your child to explain what each fraction or percent means, given in its context.
If you are making salad dressing or preparing juice from concentrate, have your child name the ratio of oil to vinegar or water to concentrate. Then ask him or her to name the ratio if the recipe were to be doubled or tripled.
While shopping, encourage your child to look for examples of rates such as three grapefruits/$0.99. Ask questions, such as: "At that rate, how much would you pay for one grapefruit? Six grapefruits?"
See the homework schedule below for math assignment details.
Writing Circles: I have sent home CDs with the students' stories recorded in podcast format. Have a listen!
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 47-51
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 32-41
Next Friday's ID test (April 11) will be on Birds #6 and Africa #19-24 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 279-280, 283
Website of the Week: Measure Your Eco-Footprint
The Zerofootprint Kid's Calculator measures the direct impact of a child's lifestyle on the planet. The idea behind the calculator is that all of our decisions and patterns of behaviour add up to a "footprint," which is just a way of measuring people's demands on nature. The more we consume, the bigger our footprint is. Indeed, our footprint is global. Much of our food, our goods, our fuel, and our resources come from somewhere else. Plus, our waste, particularly our greenhouse gas emissions, can have an effect on people everywhere.
http://www.zerofootprintkids.com
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
Important Dates in 2008
April 21 Cultural Event - Comaigri VniDansi @ 1:00 pm
April 23 Interim Reports go home
April 29 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
Our theme for the final term of the year is Responsibility. This past week, the students brainstormed examples of what responsibility means to them. In groups, they categorized each example of responsibility.
Novel Study: The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
Parvana felt the shadow before she saw it, as the man moved between her and the sun. Turning her head, she saw the dark turban that was the uniform of the Taliban. A rifle was slung across his chest as casually as her father's shoulder bag had been slung across hers...
The Talib kept looking down at her. Then he put his hand inside his vest. Keeping his eyes on Parvana, he drew something out of his vest pocket.
Parvana was about to squish her eyes shut and wait to be shot when she saw that the Talib had taken out a letter.
He sat down beside her on the blanket.
"Read this," he said.
Imagine living in a country in which women and girls are not allowed to leave the house without a man. Imagine having to wear clothes that cover every part of your body, including your face, whenever you go out. This was life in the 1990s in Afghanistan, where the Taliban, members of an extreme religious group, ran most of the country.
Deborah Ellis has been to Afghan refugee camps and heard many stories like Parvana's. All the royalties from this book will be donated to Women for Women in Afghanistan, dedicated to the education of Afghan girls in refugee camps in Pakistan.
Mathematics: Your child's class has begun a mathematics unit on fractions, percents, ratios, and rates. In this unit, your child will:
Express fractions in simplest form.
Relate mixed numbers and improper fractions.
Compare and order mixed numbers and fractions.
Explore percents.
Relate percents to fractions and decimals.
Estimate and calculate percents.
Use ratios for part-to-part and part-to-whole comparisons.
Explore equivalent ratios.
Explore rates.
Fractions, percents, ratios, and rates are used daily in many different situations. Encourage your child to find examples in the world outside the classroom. For example, the advertising sections of the newspapers is one place to find fractions and percents. Ask your child to explain what each fraction or percent means, given in its context.
If you are making salad dressing or preparing juice from concentrate, have your child name the ratio of oil to vinegar or water to concentrate. Then ask him or her to name the ratio if the recipe were to be doubled or tripled.
While shopping, encourage your child to look for examples of rates such as three grapefruits/$0.99. Ask questions, such as: "At that rate, how much would you pay for one grapefruit? Six grapefruits?"
See the homework schedule below for math assignment details.
Writing Circles: I have sent home CDs with the students' stories recorded in podcast format. Have a listen!
This Past Week's Homework Assignments
Read at least 20 minutes each evening
Health and Reading Log update
Reading Comprehension:
Black Group - Ask About: pp. 47-51
Blue Group - Art and Music: pp. 32-41
Next Friday's ID test (April 11) will be on Birds #6 and Africa #19-24 in the Study Guide (Students receive a bonus mark on each of their tests if they have their tests signed by a parent and returned).
Math - Fractions: pp. 279-280, 283
Website of the Week: Measure Your Eco-Footprint
The Zerofootprint Kid's Calculator measures the direct impact of a child's lifestyle on the planet. The idea behind the calculator is that all of our decisions and patterns of behaviour add up to a "footprint," which is just a way of measuring people's demands on nature. The more we consume, the bigger our footprint is. Indeed, our footprint is global. Much of our food, our goods, our fuel, and our resources come from somewhere else. Plus, our waste, particularly our greenhouse gas emissions, can have an effect on people everywhere.
http://www.zerofootprintkids.com
Don't forget to check out my website at linktoschool.blogspot.com . It has many links to other great educational sites and safe, kid-appropriate search engines.
Important Dates in 2008
April 21 Cultural Event - Comaigri VniDansi @ 1:00 pm
April 23 Interim Reports go home
April 29 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
May 2 Pro-D #5 - District-wide - No School
May 19 Victoria Day - No School
May 28 Celebration Assembly @ 9:00 am
June 20 Celebration Assembly @ 1:00 pm
June 23 Year End Assembly @ 10:30 am
June 24 Sports Day
June 25 Grade 7 Graduation @ 10:30, Final Report Cards sent home. Last day of school for students, early dismissal @ 1:30 pm
June 26 Pro-D #6 - No school
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to phone, email or drop by the school.
Sincerely,
Michael Link
Forsyth Road Elementary
10730 139 Street
Surrey BC V3T 5L4
Phone: 604-588-8394
mikewilliamlink@gmail.com
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