2008_11

November 2008

Welcome to the November edition of the 2008-2009 AIS Elementary newsletter!
We are having an exciting and challenging year!

Our Elementary theme for the year is:
Hold on to what is good.

The verse for our theme is from 1 Thessalonians chapter 5 verse 21.

This months events and announcements:

• Birthdays -
  Joshua on November 10th
  Eva on November 14th
  yay!
• Things to bring:
  Students should bring a hand towel and indoor shoes as the weather is getting colder now. Div 2 students should bring a notebook or calender planner to record daily homework and assignments.
• Schedule and Internet:
  As part of our long-term plan to equip the students with computer and technology skills, the elementary newsletter will continue to be posted online. The 2008-2009 class schedule will be online this year as well, feel free to print a custom copy and if there are any changes we will let you know in the newsletter. http://aischool.ed.jp/ai/schedule/
  The division two students (grade 4 and 5) have their own class homepage this year named <div2>. http://aischool.ed.jp/ai/div2/
• Homework program:
  Parents please assist students in learning to manage and complete homework on their own.
  All students have the homework information sheet and the homework update sheet. Students should remember to ask about work when they have been absent from classes.
  Homework and study habits are an important part of preparing to run the long marathon of learning and education. Div 2 students should bring a calendar or planner to record homework and assignments everyday.
• Repeated Reading Program:
  Reading is a very important part of the daily habit of homework. This is very important for vocabulary, sight reading and reading fluency. Parents may assist students by asking one or two comprehension questions about each story. Please remember to use home reading books and practice reading every night.
• AIS core sports: skateclub.
  The mini-ramp will be open each Thursday of the first and second term, weather permitting, and following skateclub there may be an open drop-in skate for parents or staff as well. Eligible riders must have their permission form in before they can participate. Having your own board / gear is highly recommended but not necessary, please consult with mr.dave before investing in a board. Please visit the homepage or see mr.dave for more information. http://aischool.ed.jp/core/


Dates:

• Tuesday, November 4th and 18th - abacus classes
• Wednesday, November 12th - Elementary Language Showcase
  It will be held after school on Wednesday, November 12th from 4pm to 5pm. Please come and support the students as they entertain you with reading, speaking, and singing. Wear your AIS t-shirt or sweatshirt.
• Thursday and Friday, November 20th and 21st - no school
• Saturday, November 22nd - Culture Festival Day/music performance
  AIS elementary music program has been invited to perform as part of an international school event at Kitano Koubou Hall. AIS students will be on stage for one performance between 9:30am and 12 noon. Please wear your AIS t-shirt / sweatshirt, see Ms. Claire for more details.
• Friday, November 28th - elementary field trip
  School will begin and end at regular pick-up and drop-off times, but please do not be late for the bus in the morning. Wear your AIS t-shirt and sweatshirt, please bring your tea bottles and backpacks. Students not in lunch program should bring a picnic lunch that is easy to eat away from school. More details to follow.

Looking Ahead:
• Friday, December 12th - end of term 1
  Progress reports will go home, please return by Friday, January 9th.
• December 1st-13th - art exhibit
  The Association of Foreign Schools in Hyogo Prefecture will host our division 2 student's art in an exhibit at the Kinrou Kaikan from December 1st-13th. The display will be 190cm wide x 140cm and will consist of group and individual pieces and needs to be ready by Friday, November 21st.
• Saturday, December 13th - AIS Christmas Event
  AIS kindergarten will present the Christmas story, songs, and a dance piece. Doors will open at 9:30am and the event begins at 10:00am. AIS elementary music program has been invited to perform some musical selections as part of the kindergarten Christmas event. Please wear your AIS t-shirt / sweatshirt, see Ms. Claire for details.
• Monday, December 15th-Monday, January 5th - winter break
  School will begin again on Tuesday, January 6th.