Happy New Year!
Our first week back at school has been wonderful, despite the very cold weather. We were disappointed to not begin our Winter Sports program this week but look forward to it next Wednesday. We did play a few new board games during indoor recess, along with all our old favorite activities.
This week we made Complete Sentence Buddies to help us learn about types of words. We're working on identifying nouns and verbs in sentences. In writing we're finishing up our narratives and small moment stories. Next week we'll finish publishing again before we begin our next writing project: myths!
To get ready for writing myths we've been reading some Native American myths: Rainbow Crow, The Day the Sun Fell From the Sky, How Kishelemukong Made the People and the Seasons, Why Some Trees Are Always Green, How Fox Brought the Forests From the Sky and Raven.
In science we've begun investigating light and shadow. We made shadows with our bodies around the room to try to figure out how light affects shadows. We also used the light projector on our SMARTboard to test if different objects would have a shadow or would let light through. Many of our guesses were accurate but it was even more fun just testing it out!
In math first graders are working on story problems. Second graders learned the last few addition strategies and continue to work on 3 digit addition. This week they practiced showing work for the same equation in multiple ways--being flexible math thinkers. Second graders also continue working with money and comparing amounts to order them from least to greatest.
Notes & Dates
*There was a green "Publix Market" re-usable bag left here before December break that none of the kids have claimed. Please let me know if it belongs to you!
January 15 -- All School Meeting 2:30-3:15
January 16 -- 4 Winds
January 19 & 20 -- Inservice for Teachers -- NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
February 6 -- Inservice for Teachers -- NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
February 23 - March 3 -- Winter Break -- NO SCHOOL
Friday, January 9, 2015
Friday, December 19, 2014
Highlights of the Week 12.19.14
Dear Families,
We've had a busy, spirited week! We all worked on some secret holiday gifts that you'll learn about sometime soon! We also read many holiday books about various December holidays--Hannukah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. We've also been talking about the Winter Solstice which will take place this weekend. It's an important holiday from long ago and the true beginning of winter. We'll celebrate the solstice with a party on Tuesday.
Please remember to bring in your Secret Snowflake gift on Monday or Tuesday, wrapping and labeled with your child's name. We'll exchange gifts on Tuesday at the party.
This week, and last week, I did a winter sight word reading assessment with all students in the class to see which words they've mastered this fall and what we still need to work on for the rest of the year. This Friday and Monday first and second graders are also doing a computer based math screening with their math teachers. This screening is being done in all the elementary schools in WCSU--it is not impacting student grades.
In second grade math we've begun using the regrouping strategy while adding, using the traditional vertical setup for adding two numbers. We used cuisenaire rods to model what is really happening and show concretely why we carry a ten into the tens column. We're practicing how to show work adding by place value this way and it's going great so far! (We have not introduced this strategy for subtraction yet. One step at a time!)
On Friday we had our first Four Winds science program on rocks and minerals. Thanks to Honi who came to our class to present this program. Four Winds is only available with the generosity of volunteer's time. If you'd like to join in the fun and be a part of our Four Winds, please contact me or Honi!
Also, the Storytelling event that was to occur next week has been postponed until January.
This will be my last posting before vacation. We have two school days next week. I hope you all have a great holiday break. School returns on January 5th.
We've had a busy, spirited week! We all worked on some secret holiday gifts that you'll learn about sometime soon! We also read many holiday books about various December holidays--Hannukah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. We've also been talking about the Winter Solstice which will take place this weekend. It's an important holiday from long ago and the true beginning of winter. We'll celebrate the solstice with a party on Tuesday.
Please remember to bring in your Secret Snowflake gift on Monday or Tuesday, wrapping and labeled with your child's name. We'll exchange gifts on Tuesday at the party.
This week, and last week, I did a winter sight word reading assessment with all students in the class to see which words they've mastered this fall and what we still need to work on for the rest of the year. This Friday and Monday first and second graders are also doing a computer based math screening with their math teachers. This screening is being done in all the elementary schools in WCSU--it is not impacting student grades.
In second grade math we've begun using the regrouping strategy while adding, using the traditional vertical setup for adding two numbers. We used cuisenaire rods to model what is really happening and show concretely why we carry a ten into the tens column. We're practicing how to show work adding by place value this way and it's going great so far! (We have not introduced this strategy for subtraction yet. One step at a time!)
On Friday we had our first Four Winds science program on rocks and minerals. Thanks to Honi who came to our class to present this program. Four Winds is only available with the generosity of volunteer's time. If you'd like to join in the fun and be a part of our Four Winds, please contact me or Honi!
Also, the Storytelling event that was to occur next week has been postponed until January.
This will be my last posting before vacation. We have two school days next week. I hope you all have a great holiday break. School returns on January 5th.
Monday, December 15, 2014
HOW 12.15.14
Dear Families,
Last week was a strange school week for sure. The early release and two days off makes it hard to remember what day today is! Well, sorry to get this out to you on a Monday, I'm sure some of were looking for this information on Friday. I hope you all stayed safe and warm on our snowy and powerless days.
Here are some important notes, dates, and reminders:
Last week was a strange school week for sure. The early release and two days off makes it hard to remember what day today is! Well, sorry to get this out to you on a Monday, I'm sure some of were looking for this information on Friday. I hope you all stayed safe and warm on our snowy and powerless days.
Here are some important notes, dates, and reminders:
- Cartoon Residency: This coming week will be the Primary Unit's time to learn about and create comic strips! We will have a session every day, from 9:20-10:00, with cartoon artist Peter Basch, a Master's candidate at the Center for Cartoon Studies. Please help your child come to school ready and on time each day!
- Pajama Day: Since we had a snow day on the original date, pajama day has been rescheduled for this coming Wednesday, December 17th. Kids are welcome to wear pajamas to school on that date. (If a night gown is worn, leggings or pants must be worn underneath.)
- Storytellers: Mrs. Woodard has arranged for storytellers to come to Rumney on Monday Dec. 22nd. The Primary Unit will hear their fantastic tales from 1:00-1:45 that afternoon.
- Solstice Party: Our Solstice party and gift exchange is Tuesday Dec. 23rd at 2:30 pm. So far I've received offers for paper goods and cookies so far. Could someone also donate a bottle of juice? Maybe some cheese and crackers? Cut fruit? Or popcorn? Let me know!
- Holiday Break: There will be no school from Wednesday Dec. 24th to Friday Jan. 2nd. School will resume on Monday January 5th.
Friday, December 5, 2014
HOW 12.5.14
Dear Families,
We had another great week together. We finished writing our science books on traits and heredity and continued writing narratives during Writer's Workshop. We finished reading Charlotte's Web by E.B. White just in time to see the play at the Flynn in Burlington. I'm so grateful that the weather cooperated. It was a fantastic play and a very special day for all of us. Thanks to all the chaperones who came and made our day such a success!
In second grade math students completed pre-assessments to show me what they already know about addition using the standard (vertical) algorithm. We'll all be learning more about this and how to use it to simplify adding two and three digit numbers by place value. (We won't use this strategy for subtraction yet--one step at a time!)
Next week in science we'll begin a new unit on light and shadow. For some of the lessons we plan to do we'll need a few items. Perhaps you have a shoebox you can give us? (We need 5-10 shoe boxes.) Or would you be able to lend us a flashlight for December/January? (If so, please send it in labeled with your name so we can easily return it!)
On Thursday we talked about the Winter Solstice party we'll have the final Tuesday before break. As part of the celebration we'll have a Secret Snowflake gift exchange. I hope you saw my letter home to you about this--we chose names on Thursday so you'll have plenty of time to prepare. I know how busy this time of year can get! If you have any questions, please contact me! Also, if your child won't be in school on the Tuesday before break please let me know! I hope everyone will be there!
Today I write to you from home. I went home sick yesterday and just talked in a whisper when I needed to--I am so thankful to have such a caring and helpful class! Just a bad cold--I'll be back on Monday. Have a fantastic and restful weekend!
We had another great week together. We finished writing our science books on traits and heredity and continued writing narratives during Writer's Workshop. We finished reading Charlotte's Web by E.B. White just in time to see the play at the Flynn in Burlington. I'm so grateful that the weather cooperated. It was a fantastic play and a very special day for all of us. Thanks to all the chaperones who came and made our day such a success!
In second grade math students completed pre-assessments to show me what they already know about addition using the standard (vertical) algorithm. We'll all be learning more about this and how to use it to simplify adding two and three digit numbers by place value. (We won't use this strategy for subtraction yet--one step at a time!)
Next week in science we'll begin a new unit on light and shadow. For some of the lessons we plan to do we'll need a few items. Perhaps you have a shoebox you can give us? (We need 5-10 shoe boxes.) Or would you be able to lend us a flashlight for December/January? (If so, please send it in labeled with your name so we can easily return it!)
On Thursday we talked about the Winter Solstice party we'll have the final Tuesday before break. As part of the celebration we'll have a Secret Snowflake gift exchange. I hope you saw my letter home to you about this--we chose names on Thursday so you'll have plenty of time to prepare. I know how busy this time of year can get! If you have any questions, please contact me! Also, if your child won't be in school on the Tuesday before break please let me know! I hope everyone will be there!
Today I write to you from home. I went home sick yesterday and just talked in a whisper when I needed to--I am so thankful to have such a caring and helpful class! Just a bad cold--I'll be back on Monday. Have a fantastic and restful weekend!
Friday, November 21, 2014
Highlights of the Week 11.21.14
Dear Families,
What a wonderful week we've had! We talked about how to check for understanding while we read. We practiced this while reading a Scholastic News about Thanksgiving. We learned some new things about how the Pilgrims traveled and how they learned to grow food.
First grade mathematicians continue practicing addition strategies. Second grade mathematicians have been using their addition and subtraction facts with two and three digit equations using number lines to find the missing value. We've also been studying story problems to determine which part is missing: Start +/- Change = Result. We've also been doing a ton of place value practice and learning about equivalencies of ones, tens, and hundreds.
In writing students continue working on true small moment stories or are working on their own imaginative narratives--student choice! Both types of stories need the same elements: characters, setting (when and where), beginning, middle, and end. We've been using a planning sheet to begin thinking about fiction narratives so we have an idea of the whole story arc before we begin writing.
We did amazing science writing this week and are nearly done with our books. Many of you saw these books in progress at conferences. We'll be excited to share the final books with you too!
Now, some housekeeping. THANK YOU so much for sending your children in with indoor shoes! It helps keep our room clean. Since we sit on the floor a lot, it's nice to not have a wet rug to sit upon. The next great thing you can do for us is be sure to label snowpants, jackets, fleeces, gloves, hats, boots. It's amazing how many of these items get left behind each day. I do a "fashion show" at the end of most days for the unclaimed and unlabeled items, but it would be tremendously helpful if you labeled your child's items so they can be easily returned. Sometimes gloves get left on the bus and it's hard to get them back to the right person.
Thanks also for sending so many permission slips back already for Charlotte's Web. I'm just waiting to get 5 more slips back. Our chaperones are: Jane Erickson, Anita Bourgeois, Honi Bean Barrett, and Jocelyn Haley. Thanks for volunteering!
Next week we have two school days which will follow our normal routines. See you then!
Important Dates:
November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
December 3: Charlotte's Web at the Flynn Theater
December 11: All School Meeting 2:30 pm
What a wonderful week we've had! We talked about how to check for understanding while we read. We practiced this while reading a Scholastic News about Thanksgiving. We learned some new things about how the Pilgrims traveled and how they learned to grow food.
First grade mathematicians continue practicing addition strategies. Second grade mathematicians have been using their addition and subtraction facts with two and three digit equations using number lines to find the missing value. We've also been studying story problems to determine which part is missing: Start +/- Change = Result. We've also been doing a ton of place value practice and learning about equivalencies of ones, tens, and hundreds.
In writing students continue working on true small moment stories or are working on their own imaginative narratives--student choice! Both types of stories need the same elements: characters, setting (when and where), beginning, middle, and end. We've been using a planning sheet to begin thinking about fiction narratives so we have an idea of the whole story arc before we begin writing.
We did amazing science writing this week and are nearly done with our books. Many of you saw these books in progress at conferences. We'll be excited to share the final books with you too!
Now, some housekeeping. THANK YOU so much for sending your children in with indoor shoes! It helps keep our room clean. Since we sit on the floor a lot, it's nice to not have a wet rug to sit upon. The next great thing you can do for us is be sure to label snowpants, jackets, fleeces, gloves, hats, boots. It's amazing how many of these items get left behind each day. I do a "fashion show" at the end of most days for the unclaimed and unlabeled items, but it would be tremendously helpful if you labeled your child's items so they can be easily returned. Sometimes gloves get left on the bus and it's hard to get them back to the right person.
Thanks also for sending so many permission slips back already for Charlotte's Web. I'm just waiting to get 5 more slips back. Our chaperones are: Jane Erickson, Anita Bourgeois, Honi Bean Barrett, and Jocelyn Haley. Thanks for volunteering!
Next week we have two school days which will follow our normal routines. See you then!
Important Dates:
November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
December 3: Charlotte's Web at the Flynn Theater
December 11: All School Meeting 2:30 pm
Friday, November 14, 2014
Highlights of the Week 11.14.14
Dear Families,
It was great to meet with so many of you this week for conferences. I'm glad we got to show off a lot of our projects and hard work to you also. We had a lot of change to our school schedule this week with the two half days and an all-school meeting. We also spent an afternoon with 4 amazing volunteers (thanks!) making listening tools. Everyone was excited and did a great job taking turns to make tools with their choice of fillings: beans, lentils, or rice. Thanks to the many families who sent in materials or came in to help us with the project. We couldn't have done it without you!
We continue to read Charlotte's Web any chance we get. Our trip to the Flynn to see this book as a play is coming up the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. Permission slips for this trip will be coming home next week. Please check for them and send them in promptly!
I was also impressed by home many students came to school prepared for a snowy recess today! The kids who had all their gear had the most fun! Please spend some time this weekend digging out the rest of the snow/winter gear. Please send students with gloves/mittens, hats, warm jackets, snowpants, and boots each day. Please also send indoor shoes. Our floor, carpet, and rug were wet and muddy after recess! Indoor shoes can go back/forth each day or a pair of indoor shoes can live in our classroom for the winter.
Speaking of shoes, we've all be learning or teaching others how to tie shoes this week. Many new tiers have made progress in learning this important skill. If your child is still working on tying shoes, please help them practice at home too!
Important Dates:
November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
December 3: Charlotte's Web at the Flynn Theater
It was great to meet with so many of you this week for conferences. I'm glad we got to show off a lot of our projects and hard work to you also. We had a lot of change to our school schedule this week with the two half days and an all-school meeting. We also spent an afternoon with 4 amazing volunteers (thanks!) making listening tools. Everyone was excited and did a great job taking turns to make tools with their choice of fillings: beans, lentils, or rice. Thanks to the many families who sent in materials or came in to help us with the project. We couldn't have done it without you!
We continue to read Charlotte's Web any chance we get. Our trip to the Flynn to see this book as a play is coming up the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. Permission slips for this trip will be coming home next week. Please check for them and send them in promptly!
I was also impressed by home many students came to school prepared for a snowy recess today! The kids who had all their gear had the most fun! Please spend some time this weekend digging out the rest of the snow/winter gear. Please send students with gloves/mittens, hats, warm jackets, snowpants, and boots each day. Please also send indoor shoes. Our floor, carpet, and rug were wet and muddy after recess! Indoor shoes can go back/forth each day or a pair of indoor shoes can live in our classroom for the winter.
Speaking of shoes, we've all be learning or teaching others how to tie shoes this week. Many new tiers have made progress in learning this important skill. If your child is still working on tying shoes, please help them practice at home too!
Important Dates:
November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
December 3: Charlotte's Web at the Flynn Theater
Friday, November 7, 2014
Highlights of the Week 11.7.14
Dear families,
This week has been great! We've been working together and taking care of ourselves well. Many of us do have colds though, so extra water and sleep please to keep us all healthy!
We were also super excited to see snow on Friday but many of us were COLD at and after recess. Please start to send kids in with all their cold weather clothes (boots, warm coat, gloves/mittens, hat). If your child wears boots to school it's also good to send in indoor shoes so our floors aren't slippery and wet. Indoor shoes can stay in our room or make the trip home/school every day!
We practiced a few more reading strategies this week: break the word into smaller parts, flex the sound, and connect to the story. We have also been thoroughly engaged in Charlotte's Web by E.B. White. It's amazing how much we have learned about spiders through this novel. We've also read a few articles and books about spiders to supplement our knowledge of spiders and webs.
Students have done amazing science writing this week, taking their notes about the similar and different traits of their animals and creating sentences describing it all. Our study of traits and heredity is coming along nicely and all the students are excited to share their books with you!
We also did a fantastic writing activity called 2 Stars and a Wish. In this activity students reflected on the things they are happy about doing at school, things they are proud that they have done at school, and things they want to get better at in school. I'll send these home today so your child can share with you their stars and wishes. You'll also notice in your child's progress report I used the same language to reflect his/her progress so far. Please take a look at my notes and we can discuss them at conferences next week!
One last thing: next Wednesday we'll be making some listening tools to keep in the classroom. I have one parent helper already but if you're also free to help Wednesday 2:20-3:00 please let me know!
Important Dates:
November 10: Half-day for students; Parent/Teacher conferences
November 11: Half-day for students; Parent/Teacher conferences
November 13: All School Meeting 2:45pm
November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
This week has been great! We've been working together and taking care of ourselves well. Many of us do have colds though, so extra water and sleep please to keep us all healthy!
We were also super excited to see snow on Friday but many of us were COLD at and after recess. Please start to send kids in with all their cold weather clothes (boots, warm coat, gloves/mittens, hat). If your child wears boots to school it's also good to send in indoor shoes so our floors aren't slippery and wet. Indoor shoes can stay in our room or make the trip home/school every day!
We practiced a few more reading strategies this week: break the word into smaller parts, flex the sound, and connect to the story. We have also been thoroughly engaged in Charlotte's Web by E.B. White. It's amazing how much we have learned about spiders through this novel. We've also read a few articles and books about spiders to supplement our knowledge of spiders and webs.
Students have done amazing science writing this week, taking their notes about the similar and different traits of their animals and creating sentences describing it all. Our study of traits and heredity is coming along nicely and all the students are excited to share their books with you!
We also did a fantastic writing activity called 2 Stars and a Wish. In this activity students reflected on the things they are happy about doing at school, things they are proud that they have done at school, and things they want to get better at in school. I'll send these home today so your child can share with you their stars and wishes. You'll also notice in your child's progress report I used the same language to reflect his/her progress so far. Please take a look at my notes and we can discuss them at conferences next week!
One last thing: next Wednesday we'll be making some listening tools to keep in the classroom. I have one parent helper already but if you're also free to help Wednesday 2:20-3:00 please let me know!
Important Dates:
November 10: Half-day for students; Parent/Teacher conferences
November 11: Half-day for students; Parent/Teacher conferences
November 13: All School Meeting 2:45pm
November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
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